Jimmy Steinfeldt Shares Memories of Photographing Prince on the Night of Purple Rain Recording
Prince performs.
Credit: Jim Steinfeldt/Michael Ochs Archives/Getty (2)
Jimmy Steinfeldt Reflects on Capturing Iconic Moments, Including Prince’s "Purple Rain"
Photographer Jimmy Steinfeldt, known for chronicling pivotal moments in music history, recalls the night Prince recorded Purple Rain at the First Avenue nightclub in Minneapolis. Steinfeldt, whose extensive portfolio boasts a myriad of legendary artists, recently shared his insights during an interview about his participation in the book Elton John: Icon, published by ACC Art Books.
"I photographed Prince for 14 years, starting with the beginning of Purple Rain," Steinfeldt said. His experience during that historic night remains vivid.
The atmosphere was electric as Steinfeldt found himself among the crowd. "At the time, I had no idea," he admitted. "I don’t think hardly anybody in attendance had any idea that night. This live performance we were watching in a 1,000-seat venue—albeit standing room only—was destined to become the very recording we would see in the movie and hear on the radio for decades. And I was there, photographing it."
Prince performing in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Prince performing in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Steinfeldt also spoke of his admiration for Elton John, whose evolution as an artist has left a profound impression on him. "Not every musical artist goes through significant changes in their song choices, writing, and look," he remarked. "I admire those who can express how they feel in the moment, regardless of their fan base. Elton John is one of the all-time greats in navigating change."
Elton John.
Credit: Jimmy Steinfeldt
Reflecting on his contributions to Elton John: Icon, Steinfeldt noted, "Each photographer was invited to write about their experience of photographing Elton John. The piece I wrote appears next to probably my most famous image of him. I’m proud of the full-page story detailing how Elton’s music has influenced my life and career."
