Prince (September 17, 1981) – “Newsmakers: Prince to open Rolling Stones concerts” – The Minneapolis Star
This Minneapolis Star article from September 17 1981 announces that Minneapolis recording star Prince and his band will open four Rolling Stones concerts—two in Los Angeles and two in Pontiac, Michigan—with the possibility of a fifth show in St. Paul. The piece details civic discussions surrounding a proposed Twin Cities date and the preparations to manage local concerns.
Publication: The Minneapolis Star Date: September 17 1981 Country: United States
The article reports that Prince, already gaining national attention for his innovative “Minneapolis sound,” was selected to open several Rolling Stones shows later that autumn.
It outlines negotiations between Minneapolis’ Schon Productions and the St. Paul Civic Center Authority, which reconsidered its earlier ban on hosting a Stones concert.
Randy Levy of Schon Productions is pictured and quoted explaining plans to address residents’ concerns near the civic center, including traffic barricades, security staffing, and a hotline for complaints.
The piece also notes that weather in late November would make outdoor partying less likely than during the Stones’ 1978 appearance, when local opposition arose.
The Civic Center Authority was scheduled to vote on the proposed November concert later that week.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
This clipping captures a pivotal moment in Prince’s early career, when he was transitioning from local fame to national recognition.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
This clipping captures a pivotal moment in Prince’s early career, when he was transitioning from local fame to national recognition.
Opening for the Rolling Stones placed him before massive rock audiences, marking a bold crossover from funk and R&B into mainstream rock territory.
The article also reflects the civic sensitivity surrounding large‑scale concerts in the Twin Cities at the time, balancing excitement for major acts with community concerns.
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS Event: Prince announced as opening act for Rolling Stones concerts
Era: 1981 – Controversial Rock Debut Early National Breakthrough Tone: Informative and anticipatory Photography: Black‑and‑white portrait of Randy Levy of Schon Productions, bearded and wearing round glasses
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS - Announcement of Prince opening four Rolling Stones shows in Los Angeles and Pontiac - Discussion of potential St. Paul concert and civic planning details - Image and quotes from Randy Levy explaining security and logistical measure
SOURCES Discogs, 45 World, Wikipedia. BBC Official Charts Prince Vault, Sleeveographia2
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