LA City Hall Hosting Potentially Star-Studded Party For Prince

Los Angeles has been finding many varied ways to honor the legacy of Prince since his unexpected death last week—from purple rain at LACMA to a City Hall illuminated in his signature color. Now a (presumably purple) City Hall will host a special memorial service for the beloved musical icon on its south lawn. The LA Times reports that the public event will be held on May 6 from 5 to 8 p.m.

The memorial is being organized by activist and community organizer Najee Ali and will be sponsored by LA City Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. Ali explained to the Times that the event isn't meant to be a downer. "It’s not a time to mourn but a time to pay tribute to his legacy," he said. "We’re expecting a big party on the grass next Friday."

As the Facebook event page for the memorial brags, Los Angeles was the "home away from home" for the Minnesota-born musician. And City Hall holds special significance as the backdrop for Prince's "Diamonds and Pearls" music video.

According to the LA Daily News, Ali has invited an A-list group of guests and performers to attend the memorial, including Sheila E., Chaka Khan, Stevie Wonder, and Kendrick Lamar. It's not clear how many of those artists will be able to attend, but the presence of even one of them would surely get Prince fans partying like it's, well, you know...

• Public memorial for Prince set for May 6 on L.A. City Hall south lawn [LA Times]
• Prince to be remembered at LA City Hall memorial service [LA Daily News]
• Purple Rain Falling For Prince in LACMA's 'Rain Room' Today [Curbed LA]