Prince (August 13 1986) – “Royal Rocker” Feature – Evening Standard (London Standard)

This Evening Standard review from August 1986 celebrates Prince’s triumphant return to London with a dazzling performance at Wembley Arena. The article captures the electric atmosphere of the show, describing Prince as a “royal rocker” whose charisma and musical brilliance left the audience in a frenzy.

Publication: Evening Standard  (The London Standard)  

Date: August 13 1986 Country: United Kingdom

The piece opens with vivid imagery of the crowd’s excitement — “wild crowds whipped into a frenzy, some throwing their clothes off” — as Prince delivered a high‑energy set that reaffirmed his status as pop royalty.

 It notes that his last London appearance had been five years earlier at the Lyceum, before his rise to global fame. The review details Prince’s uninhibited stage presence, describing him climbing atop speakers and performing Head with provocative flair.

His setlist balanced sensuality and soulfulness, moving from the raw intensity of Head to the tenderness of Purple Rain, When Doves Cry, and the playful cabaret style of Delirious.

Prince’s wardrobe is described as a kaleidoscope of flamboyant costumes — yellow suit, gangster waistcoat, spivvy leather jacket, and giant bell‑bottoms — each discarded mid‑performance to reveal his bare chest.

The writer praises his vocal range, from deep baritone to squeaky alto, and commends his band for their tight funk and occasional jazz flourishes. The article concludes that Prince’s showmanship never overshadows his talent: “He is dynamic and exhilarating, exuding charisma and the love of performance… agile, moody and emotive, which all serves to make him pure entertainment.”

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

This review documents Prince’s Parade‑era tour stop at Wembley Arena, part of his 1986 European Tour following the release of Under the Cherry Moon.

The Evening Standard’s coverage reflects the peak of Prince’s mid‑1980s acclaim, when his blend of funk, pop, and theatricality captivated audiences worldwide.

The article’s tone — exuberant yet admiring — mirrors the cultural perception of Prince as both musical innovator and provocative performer.

It also highlights his evolution from the “purple pain” of earlier years to a more refined, confident artist commanding the stage with effortless magnetism.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS  

Event: Prince live at Wembley Arena, London

Era: 1986 – Parade / Under the Cherry Moon Tour Tone: Energetic, celebratory, and reverent

Photography: Black‑and‑white image of Prince performing shirtless, microphone in hand, exuding intensity

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Evening Standard review titled “Royal Rocker” by Spencer Bright

• Description of Prince’s flamboyant costumes and dynamic performance

• Praise for his vocal range, band musicianship, and electrifying stage presence

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