In this episode, we’ll discuss the life and work of the one and only Prince. The Purple One was an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, poet, cultural icon, and is widely regarded as one of the best musicians of his generation. In this episode we’ll largely focus on Prince’s lyricism, as well as his profound impact on American writing, music, and culture at large.
Today we are joined by C. Liegh McInnis and Kerry Black.
C. Liegh McInnis is a poet, short story writer, retired instructor of English at Jackson State University, former editor and publisher of Black Magnolias Literary Journal, and author of eight books, including one work of literary criticism The Lyrics of Prince: A Literary Look. Additionally, he has been published in magazines, newspapers, and anthologies.
Kerry Black is a founding partner at Superfly productions and leads their music experiences, including Prince: The Immersive Experience. Designed for music lovers young and old, Prince fans, families and everyone in between, the interactive experience takes visitors through more than 10 multidimensional spaces, where they experience Prince’s life, creative evolution, and original sound in a new and illuminating way. Step inside the Purple Rain album cover; head into Prince’s beloved Paisley Park workspace Studio A to mix an iconic greatest hit; and get down to an audiovisual dance party designed by Prince’s lighting designer, Roy Bennett. The Immersive Experience also features historic wardrobe pieces, photography, instruments, and much more courtesy of The Prince Estate. Now open for a limited time, Prince: The Immersive Experience is located in Chicago. Learn more at PrinceTheExperience.com.
McInnis and Black are interviewed by Linda Dunlavy, Director of Development at the American Writers Museum and fellow Minnesota native.