Readers Reminisce About Prince on 10th Anniversary

Fans share personal stories about encounters with the music icon.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 11:03am

A bold, graphic silhouette of Prince's iconic purple guitar shape, rendered in stark black against a vibrant purple background, conceptually representing the enduring legacy of the legendary musician.Fans across Minnesota and the world fondly remember the indelible mark Prince left on music and culture.Denver Today

In honor of the 10th anniversary of Prince's death, the Star Tribune asked readers to share their personal stories and memories of the legendary musician. The publication received a wide range of anecdotes, from brief brushes with Prince at his iconic First Avenue nightclub to more unusual encounters, such as being accused of stealing his pie.

Why it matters

Prince was a beloved figure in the Minneapolis music scene and had a profound impact on the city's culture. These reader stories provide a unique, intimate look at the artist's legacy and how he touched the lives of his fans in Minnesota and beyond.

The details

The reader submissions ranged from humorous to poignant. One person recounted a time they were accused by Prince of stealing his pie at a party, while another described a chance meeting with the musician at First Avenue where Prince complimented their outfit. Several readers shared stories of attending Prince's legendary concerts and the lasting memories they hold from those experiences.

  • Prince passed away on April 21, 2016.
  • This year marks the 10th anniversary of his death.

The players

Anna Boone

A digital designer at the Minnesota Star Tribune who previously interned at the Denver Post and Verge Magazine in London.

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The takeaway

These reader stories capture the deep connection and reverence that Prince's fans in Minnesota and around the world continue to feel for the iconic musician, even a decade after his passing. His influence and legacy live on through the personal memories and experiences shared by those whose lives he touched.