Purple Highs: Chronicling The Days Of Wild

Latest Episodes:

Purple Highs - Adrian Crutchfield - Episode 22 Aug 03, 2023

Show notes

Listen to Adrian Crutchfield as he takes you on an incredible journey from the back risers of Paisley Park for his first audition, to the spotlight on the Arsenio Hall's Show. In this interview, Adrian shares his firsthand experiences of working alongside Prince and how he helped Prince form the NPG Hornz.

This podcast is an absolute must-listen for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of Prince. Prepare to be enthralled by Adrian’s stories and unique insights.

And if that's not enough, Adrian reveals the reason why Prince told him they were performing at George Lucas' wedding! Get ready for an unforgettable ride through the musical legacy of a true icon from someone that lived it.

Purple Highs - Tefft Smith II - Episode 21 Jun 22, 2023

Show notes

While there were other schools for animation and visual design, Tefft Smith II was beckoned to Minneapolis after high school to Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) because of its proximity to all things Prince. That proximity brought him to the center of Prince Universe as he became a regular at the parties and performances Prince had at Paisley Park throughout the mid-to-late nineties.

After completing his degree at MCAD, Tefft left Minneapolis for the sunshine of Los Angeles to begin his career in animation and visual effects. In California, he continued to follow Prince closely, attending his performances throughout California.

In this Purple High episode, Tefft Smith connects you to the Prince world of the '90s and beyond. From attending parties at Paisley Park to receiving phone calls from Prince himself. His unique perspectives along with his appreciation for the creative process provide great insights into Prince and his work over the years.

Tefft is a co-founder of "Opsis" where he works with his team to provide animation and visual design on major Hollywood projects. His passion for Prince continues to this day and includes the creation of amazing visual effects for Purple High's dance parties and live streams.

Purple Highs - Jellybean Johnson - Episode 20 Mar 30, 2023

Show notes

Purple Highs journeys to the "Bean Cave" for an interview with Jellybean Johnson, the
drummer of The Time.

Johnson shares stories from his 50+ year in the Minneapolis music scene, discusses how he acquired his nickname "Jellybean", recounts times with Prince, and much much more.

Full of insights and revelations, this episode is cooler then Santa Clause and leaves listeners hoping Purple Highs is able to make another visit to the Bean Cave for a part 2!

Purple Highs - Heidi Vader - Episode 19 Mar 23, 2023

Show notes

Heidi Vader, who grew up in south Minneapolis just a few miles away from Prince's high school, has been a devoted follower of the legendary musician since his Dirty Mind days. In this podcast, she shares stories of her experiences watching him perform on the Triple Threat Tour, at First Avenue, and at Paisley Park.

Following Prince's passing, Heidi established the Purple Playground, a non-profit organization run by fans that pay homage to Prince's legacy through an Academy of Prince music program. This program provides teenagers with the opportunity to learn about Prince, collaborate with the musicians he worked with, and make original music.

We believe that Prince would have appreciated the program and encouraged you to explore it at https://www.purpleplayground.org/.

Listen to Purple Highs to learn more about Heidi and her passion for preserving Prince's legacy.

Purple Highs - Gina ”Kim” Hyatt - Episode 18 Jul 08, 2022

Show notes

Ever wonder how the bathroom at Prince’s house on Galpin was painted? Or what it was like to be a part of those Erotic City parties at Glam Slam? And what about Prince riding a trike?! We can’t make this stuff up and neither can our guest. Gina “Kim” Hyatt brings you into the Prince universe with stories from the days of wild on the latest episode of Purple Highs.

Purple Highs - Scottie Baldwin - Episode 17 May 20, 2022

Show notes

"To the Darkness, let there be light. To my sound man, turn up my voice real tight" - Prince

As front-of-house sound for Prince over the course of 16 years, Scottie Baldwin (aka "Scottie P") was a master of making Prince and his bands tight during live performances. As a part of the Minneapolis music scene, Scottie discusses his days as a drum tech in the Minneapolis clubs like Glam Slam and Bunkers and how that got him connected to Prince. His experiences at rehearsals, after-shows, tours, and more are covered on this Purple Highs interview. His position at the soundboard gave him a unique perspective on Prince, his legacy, and the music industry. Hold on to your wigs as Scottie helps us chronicle the Days of Wild.

Purple Highs - Matt Liddy - Episode 16 Apr 08, 2022

Show notes

The video of 11-year-old Prince has gone viral this past week. Matt Liddy, a WCCO producer, gives details on how he found the clip in the station’s archives and how the story that was aired came to be. If you don’t already, this interview will make you believe in miracles.

Purple Highs - Episode 15 - Mark Bonde & DJ Dudley D Sep 18, 2021

Show notes

It's been a while and the world has changed. So has our name. The mission remains the same.

Paisley Nights - Miho Takayama - Episode 14 Feb 17, 2020

Show notes

After seeing Prince in Tokyo for the first time Miho was hooked on his sound and wanted more. Learn how that show starts her on a journey to Minneapolis that would change her life forever on this episode of Paisley Nights.

Neither The Prince Estate nor Paisley Park museum is affiliated, associated, or connected with Paisley Nights Podcast

Paisley Nights - Mark Bonde & DJ Dudley D - Episode 13 Jan 01, 2020

Show notes

Happy New Year! Mark Bonde and DJ Dudley D talk about the 1999 NYE taping at Paisley Park from Paisley Park.

Neither The Prince Estate nor Paisley Park museum is affiliated, associated, or connected with Paisley Nights Podcast