MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – For a short time, up to 100 Prince fans visiting the music superstar’s hometown will have a place to stay when the party’s over that will let them go crazy over his cultural legacy, a home featured in the film Purple Rain.
Although the white, two-storey home with brown trim in Minneapolis looks unassuming from the outside, there’s plenty inside to make the late icon’s devotees delirious over this new, limited-time Airbnb rental. Upstairs, a big closet with paisley wallpaper and leopard-spotted floor displays iconic outfits worn by Prince behind glass and has other outfits available to make renters the beautiful ones.
“And then what guests will be able to do themselves is actually play around with a selection of really iconic ’80s outfits and looks and styles that they can kind of engage their inner rock star themselves,” said Airbnb spokesperson Ali Killam.
The rentals are within reach for fans who don’t own diamonds and pearls – just USD7 a night per person for up to four guests. The price is based on Prince’s favourite number.
The Airbnb rentals are a sign o’ the times – the 40th anniversary of the movie. It starred Prince as The Kid, a musician and band leader with a rocky life in the home featured on screen.
The film, along with the hit album of the same name, made Prince a superstar through songs like the title track, Let’s Go Crazy, and When Doves Cry.
The rentals are hosted by Lisa Coleman and Wendy Melvoin, two lifelong friends and musical collaborators of Prince’s, on behalf of Airbnb, the late musician’s estate and global media company Warner Bros Discovery.
In the home’s basement, guests can sleep in a replica of The Kid’s bedroom from the film, down to the lavender pillows on the bed and even a 1980s style cassette player. There’s also a lounge where guests can play guitar, drums or an upright piano. QR codes throughout the house link visitors to commentary from the hosts.
