February 12, 2017
by Carla Hay
The 59th Annual Grammy Awards took place on February 12, 2017, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles.
THE TIME
Here is what this Grammy performer said backstage in the Grammy Awards press room.
BACKSTAGE INTERVIEW
How did it feel to do the Grammy tribute to Prince?
Morris Day: It was double-edged for me. I kind of hate the reason why we’re here, but I think it’s fitting that we are here. And I’m glad to be here. It was fitting.
How important was Prince’s legacy is to music?
Day: He was one of the best ever. His legacy will go on forever. He was just one of the best musicians who ever lived.
What was your relationship with Prince toward the end of his life?
Day: It wasn’t like when we were kids and saw each other all the time. When we saw each other, it was all love. We had the opportunity to go to Minneapolis and do a show for him about two months before he passed away, so it was cool.
What did you think of Bruno Mars’ tribute to Prince?
Day: He ripped it up. He did it perfectly. I don’t think there’s another artist who could have pulled it off as perfectly with us as Bruno did.
Jimmy Jam: But we still kicked his ass!
Would The Time consider being the opening act on Bruno Mars’ tour this year?
Day: Well, if he calls us and presents the right dollar amount, we’ll consider it.