Prince fans paint New Orleans purple with second line

Kaelyn Charbonner

Kaelyn Charbonnet

Locals mourned the loss of music icon Prince this week, after he was called “home” on Thursday, April 21st.

Prince Rogers Nelson was a musical innovator known for his diverse style and eclectic stage presence.

Mary Parrish, a Prince fan who attended Monday’s second line, said she was inspired by Prince’s work.

“He is so eccentric and he knows who he is in the world and he wasn’t afraid to share that. So, that inspires me to be more open to being who I am,” she said.

The 57-year-old’s cause of death was a result of suffering with flu-like symptoms. His music wasn’t the only mark he left behind.

“It’s an incredible loss because Prince gave so much to the community, to the people,” said Parrish. “He gave so much love.”

Beyond all of his successes, he touched many lives of people all over, especially New Orleanians, said fan Natasha Daniel.

“I think the one thing New Orleans is truly known for besides food is music and their appreciation for the roots and where it comes from and how each person, especially musicians, can identify with it,” she said.

The city celebrated their love for Prince the only way they know how, by flooding Tremé with big beats and moving feet.

Tanya Linnegar, who also attended Monday’s second line, saw the event as a unique way to honor Prince’s life.

“I think this is a beautiful celebration of him and that can only be done by New Orleans, in this style,” she said.