Ten Years On: Remembering Prince's Final European Tour and Enduring Legacy

A decade has passed since the legendary Prince left us, but his musical legacy continues to resonate powerfully, as evidenced by a recent tribute concert held in Croatia. Večernji List remembers the icon, not just for his unparalleled talent, but for his relentless dedication to his craft and his unique connection with his audience.

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It was unbelievable. Prince taught us the meaning of work ethic. He was sharp, but musically gentle and very good to us.

His final European tour in 2014, which included a memorable stop in Vienna, serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring spirit. Prince, even on his 56th birthday, chose to be on stage, delivering electrifying performances that captivated 17,000 fans. This tour, dubbed 'Hit and Run Part 2,' was characterized by its innovative approach, featuring familiar songs reimagined in a heavier style and a dynamic new band, including the talented Ida Nielsen.

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The studio experience was unlike anything I had ever experienced. We recorded directly to two-inch tape and received real-time instructions from the control room.

Collaborators like Philip Lassiter, who arranged Prince's horn section, speak of an "unbelievable" experience, emphasizing Prince's demanding yet nurturing work ethic. Lassiter recalls the intense studio sessions, recording directly to tape and receiving real-time instructions, a testament to Prince's meticulous production standards. The live performances were equally intense, with Lassiter admitting it was hard to focus on his own part, so mesmerized was he by Prince's stage presence.

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The live performance experience was crazy, it was hard to focus on my part because I was fascinated by his performance.

Prince's approach to touring was legendary. He would announce shows with little notice, sell out massive venues, and perform extensive sets, often playing dozens of songs, many of them unique to each performance. This dedication to delivering a unique experience for every fan, whether playing one show or three in a single day, solidified his status as a true artist who lived and breathed music. His passing, just two years after that final Viennese concert, left a void that continues to be felt, but his music ensures his presence endures.

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In Vienna in 2014, he held a brilliant concert, even more significant knowing that we would not see him live after that, announced only eight days earlier.