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| Prince in "Purple Rain" | Photo courtesy of Warner Bros |
From his first record deal to becoming a global icon, Prince Rogers Nelson’s journey was anything but ordinary. Known for his electric stage presence, genre-defying music, and dazzling individuality, Prince redefined what it meant to be an artist. As fans around the world mark his birthday, there’s no better place outside Minneapolis to celebrate his legacy than Los Angeles—a city that holds deep ties to his cinematic and musical history.
Whether you're a lifelong devotee or just discovering his genius, LA offers an unforgettable way to walk in the footsteps of the Purple One.
Start at Sunset Sound – Where Legends Are Made
Tucked away on Sunset Boulevard, Sunset Sound is one of the most historic recording studios in the world—and it’s where much of Purple Rain came to life. Studio 3, in particular, witnessed Prince's creative genius as he laid down unforgettable tracks like When Doves Cry, The Beautiful Ones, and Take Me With U. He recorded multiple albums here throughout his career, making it a must-visit for fans eager to connect with his musical roots.Warner Bros. Studios – The Iconic Motorcycle Shot
The famous image of Prince on his motorcycle from the Purple Rain poster and album cover? That was shot in Tenement Alley on the Warner Bros. Studios backlot. You can explore this cinematic landmark on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank, which also gives fans a peek at where scenes from Purple Rain were filmed, even though much of the movie was shot in Minneapolis.The Wiltern and Franklin Canyon – Movie Magic in LA
Fans of Purple Rain might be surprised to learn that LA appears in several scenes. The Wiltern Theatre, with its ornate Art Deco façade, features in exterior shots meant to represent Minneapolis. Just a short ride away, Franklin Canyon Park played a starring role in the legendary Lake Minnetonka scene, offering a real-world connection to one of the film’s most quoted moments.Union Station – A Glamorous Walk for “Cream”
Prince returned to LA’s Union Station for the Diamonds and Pearls era. In the video for Cream, the marble floors and arched windows of the station serve as the backdrop for Prince and his dancers Diamond and Pearl. The station’s grand design and cinematic charm make it a top location for those tracing his music video legacy.Celebrate Prince at the GRAMMY Museum
Downtown LA’s GRAMMY Museum is a treasure trove of music history, and Prince’s impact is well represented. Exhibits trace his influence, display memorabilia, and showcase his award-winning contributions to music. The museum’s third floor dives into the glamour of the GRAMMYs, where Prince earned his first awards in 1985 and received the prestigious President’s Merit Award the following year.Where Prince Played 21 Unforgettable Nights
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| "Purple Rain" movie poster | Photo: Warner Bros. |
A City That Still Dances in Purple
From film sets to studios and unforgettable performances, Prince left a powerful mark on Los Angeles. The city still pulses with his creative spirit, and walking through these locations feels like stepping into his world. Whether you stream Purple Rain, visit the studio where it was born, or wander through Union Station with Cream playing in your ears, LA gives fans a place to remember, reflect, and celebrate one of music’s greatest.Plan Your Prince Tour
For Warner Bros. Studio Tour information: www.wbstudiotour.com
Visit Sunset Sound: www.sunsetsound.com
Explore the GRAMMY Museum: www.grammymuseum.org
For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine"
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/
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