GRAMMY-winning artist Prince hit the stage at the Royal Farms Arena in downtown Baltimore Sunday following the recent protests over the death of Freddie Gray.
The singer performed at a “Rally 4 Peace,” to a sold-out crowd of over 14,000, joined by his all-girl, funk-rock trio 3RDEYEGIRL.
Organizers say the event was meant to be “a catalyst for pause and reflection” after the recent protests and riots over the death of Gray. Concert attendees were asked to wear something gray in tribute to all those people lost recently in violence.
Producers say a portion of the concert’s proceeds will benefit youth charities in Baltimore.
“For those who have lost loved ones, we’re here for you tonight,” Prince told the crowd before launching an almost three hour set that included his most famous hits.
Prince also called on the city’s youth to fix a “broken system.”
Stars who joined Prince onstage included the legendary Doug E. Fresh, Estelle, Miguel and Raheem DeVaughn.
At one point, Prince invited onstage Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who has charged six officers in Gray’s death.
Prince also debuted his new tribute song “Baltimore” singing, “Does anybody hear us pray/For Michael Brown or Freddie Gray/Peace is more than an absence of war/We’re tired of crying and people dying/Let’s take all the guns away.”
Audio streaming service, TIDAL live-streamed the concert for their subscribers.
We’re honored #Prince allowed us to share #Rally4Peace. Concert history was made yet again today. #TIDALXBaltimore http://t.co/QWMLSUuRWM
—
TIDAL (@TIDALHiFi) May 11, 2015
Alicia Keys, Beyonce and Tina Knowles met with Michael Brown’s mother, Lesley McSpadden, who was backstage at the show.
Beyonce and Jay Z snapped a few photos with the family of Freddie Gray.
Follow WPGC on Twitter.
(TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
