Nairobi is set to be captivated by a musical extravaganza celebrating the legacy of one of America’s greatest music icons, Prince. This November 16th, fans will gather at Alloy, Sarit Centre, for an unforgettable tribute concert led by Morris Hayes, Prince’s longtime musical director and keyboardist. In honor of the 40th anniversary of Prince’s iconic album and film Purple Rain, this evening promises a journey back to the electrifying sounds and spirit of the ’80s, bringing the essence of Prince’s music to life.
As a core member of Prince’s band, The New Power Generation, for over two decades, Hayes was instrumental in shaping Prince’s live performances, evolving to become the band’s musical director. From packed arenas to intimate venues, Hayes has shared countless stages with Prince, each performance becoming a testament to Prince’s talent and his enduring connection with audiences. This concert in Nairobi, guided by Hayes’ unique understanding of Prince’s music, will honor that legacy with a powerful lineup of artists and beloved songs.
The venue, Alloy at Sarit Centre, is expected to transform into a scene straight out of a dream for Prince fans, filled with nostalgic energy, soul-lifting beats, and mesmerizing performances that encapsulate the spirit of the ’80s. With a diverse lineup set to take the stage, audiences are in for an evening where both Prince’s originals and fresh renditions will ignite the crowd.
Joining Morris Hayes on stage is Dreion, the multitalented singer-songwriter known for his powerful presence and smooth falsetto that graced The Voice on NBC. His vocal range and engaging stage charisma are sure to elevate Prince’s classics like “When Doves Cry,” “Let’s Go Crazy,” and the iconic ballad “Purple Rain.” Dreion’s performances will undoubtedly capture the emotional intensity and melodic brilliance that turned these songs into timeless hits, bringing a new dimension to Prince’s legacy for Nairobi fans.
Adding a uniquely Kenyan flair to the event, Polycarp Otieno, aka Fancy Fingers from the celebrated Kenyan band Sauti Sol, will open the show. Polycarp, renowned for his masterful guitar skills and innovative approach to music, will bring his signature style to kick off the night, setting the stage for an evening that seamlessly blends Kenyan artistry with American rock and soul. As a key figure in Kenya’s modern music scene, Polycarp’s inclusion underscores the concert’s effort to blend local and international musical legacies, creating a cross-cultural celebration that resonates with Prince’s own spirit of musical diversity.
Released in 1984, Purple Rain marked a cultural milestone, showcasing Prince at the peak of his artistry. The album stayed atop the Billboard 200 for an impressive 24 weeks and earned Prince Grammy Awards, along with an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. The album’s bold fusion of rock, pop, R&B, and funk redefined music at the time, making Prince a global superstar and forever changing the landscape of popular music. For many fans, Purple Rain represents not only a collection of songs but also an era marked by a fearless approach to music, style, and identity.
Now, forty years later, Purple Rain continues to inspire fans around the world. This concert seeks to revive that spirit, transporting the audience back to an era when Prince’s music, style, and charisma dominated airwaves, stages, and hearts worldwide. Fans will be able to relive Prince’s music in a live setting that aims to capture the energy and innovation that defined the Purple Rain era.
Tickets for this one-of-a-kind experience are selling quickly, with Early Bird tickets priced at Kshs. 6,000 and regular tickets at Kshs. 7,500. For fans of Prince’s music, this night promises not only a trip down memory lane but also a celebration of the artistic brilliance that continues to influence generations of musicians.
Nairobi is ready to celebrate Prince’s legacy with Morris Hayes, Dreion, and Polycarp Otieno, creating a concert experience that will surely be remembered as a night of timeless music, boundless energy, and cross-generational celebration.
