Music lovers all over the world have been spinning their favorite Prince records on repeat to mourn the loss of the legendary pop artist, who died Thursday at the age of 57. But Charm City has an extra special attachment to the musician, after he stepped in to promote a message of peace and healing in the wake of the civil unrest surrounding the death of Freddie Gray. It was nearly a year ago when thousands of locals flocked to Royal Farms Arena for the superstar’s impromptu “Rally 4 Peace” concert, where he first performed “Baltimore,” his ode to rebuilding our city. Prince donated some of the proceeds from the performance to various organizations committed to uniting the community. Now, tons of local establishments are paying homage to the pop icon, offering everything from raspberry berets to Purple Rain-inspired cocktails.
The Senator Theatre: Shortly after the news broke, The Senator announced special screenings of Purple Rain, Prince’s first film that scored him an Oscar for Best Original Song in 1984. Screenings are scheduled April 29-30 at 8 p.m., and on May 4 at 7 and 9:45 p.m. Tickets range from $9-12. 5904 York Road, 410-323-4424
B&O American Brasserie: A special Purple Rain-inspired cocktail is featured on the spring menu at this trendy spot inside the Hotel Monaco. Post up by the bar to sample the drink, which combines lavender Novo Fogo cachaça (a Brazilian rum with hints of banana), lemon juice, and honey-apple shrub, and is garnished with crème de violetta and a fresh lavender sprig. 2 N. Charles St., 443-692-6170.
Milk & Ice Vintage: This vintage boutique and antique store on the Avenue in Hampden is highlighting pieces that commemorate Prince’s eclectic style. Stop by to browse its collection that features items like a raspberry beret and matching scarf, suede blazer, and a purple parasol. 833 W. 36th St., 410-889-1009
Mother’s Grille: In addition to blasting Prince’s hits throughout the restaurant, Mother’s will be pouring $5 Purple Crushes at all of its locations tonight. Multiple locations including 1113 S. Charles St., 410-244-8686
The Crown: This Station North hangout, known for karaoke and late-night dance parties, debuted three cocktails inspired by some of Prince’s most well known songs in its Red room last night. Sample the “When Doves Cry” cocktail, which combines Bombay Sapphire gin, absinthe, tonic, lavender bitters, and lemonade ($8); the “Raspberry Beret” made with Cassis liqueur, Campari, grapefruit vodka, and Sprite ($8); or the “I Would Die for You,” a duo of Miller High Life and Pikesville Rye ($6). 1910 N. Charles St., 410-625-4848
The Rowhouse Grille: This multi-level Federal Hill bar is hosting a Prince-inspired party on Sunday, April 24 at 5 p.m. Gather your friends, don your best purple attire, and sip drink specials while getting down to his greatest hits. 1400 Light St., 443-438-7289
West Madison Craft Beer & Wine Bar: Curate your best Prince playlist and head over to this recently rebranded Mt. Vernon spot, which will host a special event to honor The Purple One on Saturday, April 23 at 6 p.m. West Madison is encouraging diners to create the soundtrack for the soiree by plugging in their own devices and playing their favorite songs. The customer with the best playlist will win a $25 gift card to the restaurant. 311 W. Madison St., 410-949-6609
Ottobar: Known for its frequent “Prince vs. Michael Jackson” dance parties, this indie rock club will be paying tribute to the late musician with a few special events in the coming weeks. To kick things off, James Nasty will be spinning Prince’s music in the venue’s upstairs bar tonight starting at 9 p.m. Mark your calendars for another special show in the downstairs concert hall on May 14, which will feature the likes of Nasty and DJ Mills playing sets fusing the best of late artists Prince, Whitney Houston, David Bowie, and Michael Jackson. 2549 N. Howard St., 410-662-0069