© Aled Llywelyn

Elvis and Prince Exhibitions at the O2 in London, 2017: A Celebration of Musical Legends

In 2017, the O2 in London became the epicentre of musical history as it hosted two extraordinary exhibitions dedicated to two of the most iconic artists of all time: Elvis Presley and Prince. These exhibitions offered fans a rare opportunity to immerse themselves in the lives, music, and legacy of these legendary performers. By showcasing personal artifacts, iconic outfits, and behind-the-scenes stories, the exhibitions celebrated the unique cultural impact of Elvis and Prince on the music industry and the world.

Elvis on Tour: The Exhibition

The Elvis Presley exhibition, titled Elvis on Tour: The Exhibition, opened at the O2 in November 2017. It was a continuation of the O2’s success with Elvis at the O2, an earlier exhibition that drew thousands of fans eager to learn more about the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll. This time, the focus was on Elvis’s groundbreaking touring years, showcasing his evolution as a live performer and the enduring appeal of his music.

A Glimpse into Elvis’s Touring Years

The exhibition featured over 200 artifacts from the Graceland archives, many of which had never been displayed outside of Elvis’s home in Memphis, Tennessee. Visitors could explore personal and professional items that painted a vivid picture of Elvis’s life on the road. Highlights included:

• Tour Costumes: Elvis’s iconic jumpsuits, adorned with intricate beadwork and rhinestones, were on full display. These outfits epitomised his flair for showmanship and his ability to captivate audiences with not just his voice, but also his visual presence.
• Personal Items: From handwritten setlists to rare photographs, the exhibition offered intimate glimpses into Elvis’s preparations for his tours. A particularly touching inclusion was his Bible, showing the spiritual side of a man often seen as larger than life.
• Film Clips and Concert Footage: Visitors could relive the magic of Elvis’s live performances through rarely seen video clips, including footage from his acclaimed Elvis: That’s the Way It Is and Elvis on Tour documentaries.

Cultural Impact

The exhibition highlighted how Elvis transformed the concept of touring in the music industry. His high-energy performances, innovative stage presence, and unique sound set the standard for future generations of artists. By focusing on his live tours, the exhibition underscored the King’s ability to connect with audiences worldwide and solidified his status as a global phenomenon.

My Name is Prince: The Prince Exhibition

Running from October 2017 to January 2018, My Name is Prince was the first official Prince exhibition outside the United States. It gave fans a chance to step into the world of the Purple One, celebrating his unparalleled creativity, flamboyant style, and profound influence on music and culture.

An Intimate Look at Prince’s World

Curated in collaboration with the Prince Estate, the exhibition provided an intimate look at the multifaceted artist’s career. With over 200 items from Paisley Park, Prince’s legendary creative sanctuary in Minnesota, the exhibition was a treasure trove for fans. Highlights included:

• Iconic Wardrobe: Prince’s bold and theatrical outfits were on full display, including the purple coat from Purple Rain and custom-made ensembles that defined his aesthetic. These pieces reflected his fearless approach to fashion and his ability to use clothing as an extension of his artistry.
• Instruments: Among the standout items were Prince’s custom-made guitars, including the iconic Cloud and Love Symbol guitars. These instruments were not just tools of his trade but symbols of his innovation and signature sound.
• Handwritten Lyrics and Notes: Fans could glimpse the creative process behind some of Prince’s greatest hits, with handwritten lyrics and personal notes showcasing his genius as a songwriter.
• Awards and Memorabilia: Grammy Awards, MTV trophies, and other accolades were displayed alongside personal items, such as his passport and driver’s license, giving a humanising touch to the larger-than-life artist.

Interactive Elements

The exhibition also included immersive elements, allowing visitors to experience Prince’s music in unique ways. Listening stations, video screenings, and recreated stage setups brought the energy of his live performances to life.

A Legacy of Innovation

My Name is Prince explored how Prince broke boundaries in music, challenging traditional notions of genre, gender, and artistic freedom. From his pioneering efforts to reclaim ownership of his music to his experiments with sound and performance, the exhibition celebrated an artist who was always ahead of his time.

A Dual Celebration of Musical Pioneers

The timing of the Elvis and Prince exhibitions in 2017 felt particularly poignant, as it marked key anniversaries and moments in the legacies of both artists. While Elvis’s exhibition paid homage to a performer who redefined popular music and stagecraft in the 20th century, Prince’s exhibition highlighted a revolutionary artist whose work transcended boundaries and continued to inspire.

Common Themes

Despite their differences in era and style, Elvis and Prince shared several commonalities that made their simultaneous exhibitions fitting:

1. Stage Presence: Both artists were known for their electrifying stage performances. Elvis’s charisma and Prince’s theatricality were cornerstones of their live shows, drawing audiences into their unique worlds.
2. Cultural Impact: Elvis brought rock ‘n’ roll to the forefront of popular culture, while Prince redefined the possibilities of pop, funk, and R&B. Both artists challenged societal norms and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
3. Personal Style: Fashion was integral to their personas. Elvis’s jumpsuits and Prince’s flamboyant outfits became synonymous with their public images, highlighting their ability to blend music with visual art.
4. Dedicated Fanbases: Decades after their deaths, both Elvis and Prince continue to command loyal fanbases that celebrate their legacies and introduce their music to new generations.

The Visitor Experience

For fans of Elvis and Prince, visiting these exhibitions was an emotional journey. The exhibitions offered a rare opportunity to connect with the personal lives of these icons while reliving the music and moments that defined their careers. The O2, with its rich history of hosting world-class events, provided the perfect backdrop for this dual celebration of music royalty.

Educational Value

The exhibitions also served an educational purpose, offering insights into the evolution of the music industry and the cultural shifts these artists helped shape. For younger fans or those unfamiliar with their work, the exhibitions were a gateway to discovering the transformative power of music.

Conclusion

The Elvis and Prince exhibitions at the O2 in 2017 were a testament to the enduring legacies of two of the greatest artists in music history. By offering fans an intimate look at their lives and work, the exhibitions celebrated not just their achievements but also the universal language of music that connects people across generations. Whether you were drawn by Elvis’s timeless charm or Prince’s unparalleled creativity, these exhibitions were unforgettable tributes to artists who changed the world.