I think Prince's undoing now is his popularity (leave stadium sales out of this) versus his age. I think for someone of his ability he really must envy the members of the NPG (musicians only) as they are of a status whereby they can do a quiet gig with fellow musicians and not worry about screaming fans turning up.

Maceo Parker can drop in and do gigs without the hysteria (the upcoming Cheltenham Jazz Festival for instance) and he's a real legend in his own circle.

I think that's where Prince may possibly want to be but he's screwed by his own past success.

One could argue that any 'mega-star' would be unable to announce a gig at a small venue and it not have massive interest. But the difference here is that Prince is foremost a musician unlike many of his peers.

Perhaps he finds his-self unable to play without the performance?

In short, yes and no.

I think yes.

Almost all artist seem to want to go back to their roots once in a while, which is usually small venues, so I'll say yes too.

maybe when he is 65..then again maybe not

Huh? Prince does play small clubs, now and back when he was at his purple popular high. Yes he does like to be able to play whatever he feels like and try certain songs for reaction. He's also still able to play impromptu shows with smaller acts like grupo fantasmo and the blind boys of alabama. However he wants to be a megastar and play stadium gigs, he wants to be in the public eye, screaming fans and all.

If Prince fanz knew that he was playing a smaller club, like the "House of Blues" or something...many fans would be turned away...Prince would have to do...Threethousandonehundredtwentyone nights...so we could all go.
[Edited 3/17/08 6:41am]

he IS a small gig without hysteria. dont u people know anything??!!