The Revolution reunites to benefit heart health

by Jim Bickal, Minnesota Public Radio

ST. PAUL, Minn. — On Sunday, Feb. 19, Prince and the Revolution, minus Prince, will reunite for a special concert at First Avenue in Minneapolis.

The show is the brainchild of Prince's former drummer, Bobby Z, who nearly died from a heart attack just over a year ago.

Minnesota Public Radio's Jim Bickal spoke with Bobby Z and his former bandmates, Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman, about the reunion, and what it was like playing in Prince's band at the height of his popularity.

In addition to hearing music from the Purple Rain era, concert-goers will also learn about heart health. The ticket proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association.

The drummer says he wanted to do something for all the fans who supported him during his recovery.

"When I recovered, I thought, 'What could I possibly do to thank these people?' You know, I'd like to give them the best music that they would love to hear. And I'd love to give them Prince and the Revolution," he said. "But Prince is a busy man with a heavy schedule and so I thought, well maybe I can get the Revolution."

Melvoin said that playing with this group of musicians brings out the best in her.

"I've played with so many people and produced and written for people," she said. "But being in the room and playing with that band there's always an incredible gold lining that's just always apparent when we all play together."

Click on the audio link above to hear the conversation.

Broadcast Dates

• Morning Edition, 02/17/2012, 6:50 a.m.