‘It’s more important than ever’ for Chase & Ovation, the only sanctioned Prince tribute band…

Prince was famously protective of his music and image. While he was known for shutting down unauthorized uses of his music, there were certain items he’d let stand or even personally approve.

Since 2006, Prince tribute band Chase & Ovation has operated with the blessing of Prince himself. C&O frontman Chase, a lifelong Twin Cities musician, had a long history with Prince. He was babysat by Prince’s mother, Mattie, and he worked with the Purple One on the set of 1990’s Graffiti Bridge.

With the changed climate since Prince’s passing last month, Chase & Ovation are aware as ever that the music and the message need to prevail. The band released an emotional statement about their future a week after Prince’s death.

“As difficult as the upcoming shows will be to perform,” it reads, “Chase & Ovation will indeed honor all dates and has begun accepting opportunities to showcase his music around the world. Thank you dear brother, Prince! The band and I will do all we can to honor all you left us here with!”

At Friday’s C&O show at Medina Entertainment Center, Chase expects many things: love, laughter, and grief. He chatted with City Pages ahead of the gig to talk all things Prince.

Read the full interview here.