Purple Nights - Prince Reimagined
Few artists crossed musical boundaries as effortlessly as Prince. In Purple Jazz Night, an exceptional international ensemble brings his iconic songs into a new setting, revealing the jazz spirit behind some of pop music’s most unforgettable melodies. From the irresistible groove of Kiss to the tenderness of The Most Beautiful Girl in the World and the anthemic Purple Rain, familiar favourites become the starting point for adventurous instrumental interpretations.
Leading the rhythm is former Prince drummer David “Fingers” Haynes, joined by rising piano star Ken Linh Doky, acclaimed French bassist François Moutin, and Swedish trumpeter Peter Asplund. Together, they explore a side of Prince that deserves more attention: his lifelong connection to jazz.
Both of Prince’s parents were jazz musicians, and according to his former wife Mayte Garcia, he once spent a period listening to Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue every single night. Purple Jazz Night celebrates that connection, offering a fresh perspective on the musical genius of Prince.
Artist highlights
Ken Linh Doky
Accomplished pianist Ken Linh Doky is celebrated for his soulful blend of jazz, hip hop, and R&B, seamlessly merging technical mastery with deep emotional expression to create a truly unique musical voice. More about Ken Linh Doky
David "Fingers" Haynes
David “Fingers” Haynes, a pioneer of finger-drumming, is renowned for his innovative and elegant style, as well as dynamic collaborations with Prince and other major artists across genres.
Peter Asplund
Award-winning Swedish trumpeter, vocalist, and composer, Peter Asplund is renowned for his lyrical phrasing and commanding tone, bridging classic swing tradition with contemporary sophistication.
Francois Moutin
French bass virtuoso François Moutin is known for his breathtaking technique, emotional depth and captivating energy, hailed as one of the greatest living double bass players on the jazz scene.
“Prince always had jazz in his DNA — and this band brings that truth to life with fearless creativity and elegance.”
Album Schedule
David “Fingers” Haynes
David “Fingers” Haynes has developed a rhythmic voice unlike any other. Renowned for his extraordinary finger technique and instinctive sense of groove, he moves effortlessly between the sophistication of jazz and the raw energy of funk. His remarkable command of rhythm has made him one of the most distinctive drummers on the international music scene.
Born in South Carolina, Haynes discovered music in the church before developing his own approach to percussion, combining traditional drumming with an astonishing mastery of finger drumming. His career has taken him around the world, performing and collaborating with legendary artists including Prince, Chaka Khan, Lee Ritenour, Joe Zawinul, and Mary J. Blige.
With Purple Jazz Night, Haynes returns to the music of Prince, drawing on his firsthand connection to an artist who constantly challenged musical boundaries. Alongside Ken Linh Doky, François Moutin, and Peter Asplund, he brings a new perspective to Prince’s iconic repertoire, revealing just how naturally these timeless songs lend themselves to jazz.
Artist highlights
Ken Linh Doky
Accomplished pianist Ken Linh Doky is celebrated for his soulful blend of jazz, hip hop, and R&B, seamlessly merging technical mastery with deep emotional expression to create a truly unique musical voice. More about Ken Linh Doky
David "Fingers" Haynes
David “Fingers” Haynes, a pioneer of finger-drumming, is renowned for his innovative and elegant style, as well as dynamic collaborations with Prince and other major artists across genres.
Peter Asplund
Award-winning Swedish trumpeter, vocalist, and composer, Peter Asplund is renowned for his lyrical phrasing and commanding tone, bridging classic swing tradition with contemporary sophistication.
Francois Moutin
French bass virtuoso François Moutin is known for his breathtaking technique, emotional depth and captivating energy, hailed as one of the greatest living double bass players on the jazz scene.