Dhani Harrison on Tom Petty, Jeff Lynne & that Prince "gratuitous" guitar moment.

Short radio interview with Dhani Harrison at the MusiCares event for Tom Petty - 10th Feb 2017.

[@F10MTL]

I read that Prince was the only one who couldn't make it to the rehearsal for the group performance due to another commitment, but promised he'd still make his contribution worth it. He was a man of his word.

[@grandepdre]

I love his dad. I love Jeff Lynne. I REALLY love Tom Petty. But if Prince doesn't scorch the stage that last 3+ minutes, that 43 million viewed video of While My Guitar Gently Weeps would be about 430,000. And for that and his body or work, I worship Prince.

[@skygazer6898]

Keith Wilkerson Spot on

[@hannaj4032]

Keith, I think at least 1000 of those views are mine. I heard Tom talking about that performance on his radio show and he said he was thrilled to work with Prince. I read elsewhere Olivia and Dhani were a little bent out of shape about Prince being part of the performance because he didn't know the song. The producer really wanted Prince to be part of the performance and Prince accepted because he admired Petty. That's who Tom was, everyone respected him and he reciprocated. What a sad sad loss!

[@ryancampbell735]

I still can't believe that Prince had missed that song for so long. It's a true classic with a classic solo by Clapton.

[@rockssolid7471]

So glad to hear Tom felt that way about Prince... he was after all being inducted into the Hall of Fame that night. I wouldn't have even watched the performance if Prince wasn't playing, and I am a fan of all those cats. And Prince knew the song for sure :)

[@kww7379]

Without Prince, it would have been just another forgettable Hall of Fame reunion performance

[@earthlilly]

this interview broke my heart. I specifically looked for Dhani's response to this. It is so clear that Petty kept Prince revved up during that performance. I will try to forget this interview.#notgratuitous

[@kalmia4066]

I wish I had not seen it. And will also try to forget.

[@321doucheface]

@@dls31070 i don't know about how the others felt about prince, but i've seen other interviews that mentioned the producers decided to add prince to the performance at the last minute. i don't think the others took issue with the idea, but i suppose they might have. tom petty did say in an interview later that he loved prince's performance.

[@kevynanderson4711]

Haters will hate

[@vitoribas]

Jeff and him were having a blast during the performance, him saying that 1 year after Prince passing just to look cool is so fucking infuriating man

[@audible67]

Maybe you just need to actually listen to the interview and not just hear what you want to hear. You're obsessed over his use of the word gratuitous, but you refuse to hear what he is saying. He says that it was awkward, because it was awkward. Of course it's going to be awkward when nobody knows what is going to happen and it's Prince playing with the wilburys and the Heartbreakers... That's just surreal. Anyway. Like Danny says it was special and it deserved to be shared with the world... What about that Do you not understand?

[@sidtrip1]

It wasn't in the least meant to be gratuitous, Dhani. Prince was the one who elevated it to a stratospheric level. The whole thing has become unforgettable and gets repeat views from thousands, if not millions, thanks only to Prince's God-like solo performance. It was Prince who made it one of the greatest moments in rock history. Period.

[@stephencoopet7860]

I agree 10000000000 percent with you

[@kbrown4ou]

Although I’ll always be amazed by Prince’s solo I think it could be said that within a dictionary definition of gratuitous (“uncalled for;” “unwarranted”) the tossing of the guitar at the end (although a master of showmanship) could be called gratuitous (and certainly not in keeping within the spirit of the center of attention belonging to George). But, given Billboard’s dismissal of Prince’s guitar talent I certainly don’t fault him with that explanation point.

[@talk2thejay]

Exactemundo! P was on fiyaaahh 🔥

[@davelindstrom6005]

@@kbrown4ou - *exclamation* point. (not "explanation")

[@kbrown4ou]

@@davelindstrom6005 Good catch; although maybe the term “explanation point” might have a place in the English language (or, not).

[@annadavis9666]

I love all the performers in the tribute video. It was Prince that made me obsessed with watching it over and over.

[@constance.bridenbaugh676]

his expression on his face!!

[@lcrosbylola]

I feel the same way! All the musicians are or were great but Prince was epic! I’ll never get tired of watching that video!

[@theduckfactory2884]

Mann's guitar keeps me watching over and over and Prince mesmerizes.

[@mizzbee1477]

Yes. Exactly

[@lstarr5040]

Every musician on that stage honored the hell out of George Harrison's creation. Prince brought a level of virtuosity to the occasion that made the Hall of Fame version an instant classic in its own right.

[@melaniejackson8932]

Whether we liked his performance or not, IF IT WASN'T FOR PRINCE, THIS THREAD WOULDN'T EXIST..

[@ricklarchmont]

Exaaaaactly.

[@doubledollarman2727]

I’m disappointed in them. Prince played that for George. He didn’t care what you guys, living and breathing experiencing life still, wanted. He played that as a tribute the way it was meant to be played. George was rocking out in heaven. Guaranteed.

[@victorarena23]

well now that is going overboard. prince played that for prince. but it's ok, we got to watch

[@peacepipenetwork]

fully agree. they were too mechanical and note for note. im sure george is smiling with where prince took it

[@trippshow3541]

100% agreed! Prince doesn't just show up and rip the roof of the sucka for anyone! C'mon Dhahni...Your Pops was good and all but he isn't Mc Cartney or Lennon. You career sucks. I'm biased. I worked 12 years for The Artist.

[@Nclght]

Who the hell would ever expect Prince not to be Prince? That's like asking Michael Jordan to join your team and then you complain he dropped 50...that's like asking the ocean not to be wet, or the Sun not to shine. That concept is absolute silliness.

[@danielcowan8673]

Exactly. Why would Prince have done anything else?

[@melaniejackson8932]

Could not have said it better myself!! Thank you.

[@lavenderbee3611]

I love your reply, perfect. They put a stick of dynamite on the stage.

[@loosilu]

The producer asked him to join, not the other musicians.

[@Bdoc76]

Most correct statement ever.

[@melaniejackson8932]

How can anyone actually believe Petty and company would be taken aback by Prince's performance? They all knew very well who Prince was and was very familiar with his style. Why would they be surprised at Prince being Prince? That makes no sense. Dhani's expression throughout Prince's solo show nothing but awe at his Royal Badness.

[@kalmia4066]

Exactly!

[@dhollsynthmusic]

Gratuitous is what makes it so memorable...gratuitous is an energy, and Prince decided it was time for it to come out and play. If you check out Clapton's solo in another tribute performance: it's dry, understated and respectful...i.e. not particularly memorable. Prince's bombastic take may have switched on a whole bunch of new fans towards George's music...the ultimate tribute!

[@jlynn468]

If that was gratuitous then it was well earned and woke up that performance. All should feel blessed to be a part of it.

[@kwez211]

I dont think anybody invites prince over to play and expect him to be a sitting duck. Prince is expected to be prince

[@pixels2u]

@Hal Keating THIS

[@tthompson4768]

Exactly..

[@MaryLou913]

Prince is expected to Prince

[@jillkins9999]

Exactly, it wasn't gratuitous, it was Prince playing how he plays and I am so thankful for it!

[@melaniejackson8932]

@@pixels2u Hell no! His guitar wailed!!

[@PetraKann]

You have go to be kidding me....any guitarist worth their salt would watch that Prince solo and marvel. I remember people telling em years ago about how good Prince was as a guitarist after watching him live.....I didnt pay too much attention not being a big Prince fan (Purple Rain was about where it stopped for me - magical song and solo). Prince's solo in this live rendition of a classic song Definitely made the song shine.

[@meacomefeyou]

Perfect balanced formula (elements) in that soup (group). Real recognises real! The slow clouds, the rain, and the lightning made everything harmonise, naturally, artistically and beautifully. Real recognisees real. Thank you Jehovah God for all our influential Legends we bared witness to today Amen

[@mr.smithgnrsmith7808]

And he plays on a no name Telecaster...like a $300 one...I’m sure Tom loved what Prince did...he loved the guitar and all kinds of guitar playing....his guitarist, Mike Campbell is the most versatile there is

[@fongy200]

He looked the part also. Style.

[@aawhittle]

In fact, there are about 3-4 videos on KZbin of guitarists analyzing and getting very technical about the solo itself...

[@victorarena23]

he was great, and so was the solo. It was an incredible show but I prefer other artists versions

[@christopherwilliams5912]

Without that Prince solo no one would remember that tribute!

[@imaschitzophrenicjunkieok6715]

Prince wiped the floor with every single one of them.

[@pendensne9309]

Christopher Williams sustained.

[@contactlisa1]

it was a funeral dirge until prince stepped in ! In fact i'm going to repeat that at the top of this post.

[@christopherwilliams5912]

Dhani Harrison wishes he had an ounce of Prince's talent. Tom Petty got what Prince was doing and was blown away...Harrison what a stiff!

[@lparish5780]

lmao

[@kyra3180]

I hadn't heard about this performance until after Prince died. Now, I've watched at least 20 times.

[@ChubbyChecker182]

Okay, that was a year ago... How many more times have you watched it since 😁✌️👌

[@moneypenny1267]

Have watched it so many times - it doesn’t get old

[@LindaR423]

I just discovered Prince's performance that's being spoken about about 2 months ago. I watch it several times every single day, but I fast forward to the part where Prince performs. His guitar playing is & always was amazing. I felt like he really perked up the entire performance.

[@Ballzup123]

Sad to hear Dhani say that. It's a tribute to his father, and you go hard with everything you have, and Prince did that. I'm pretty sure George would have loved that.

[@easy2120]

Prince was paying tribute to George and did great. He wasn't trying to show up the rest of the stage for I sense Prince was just as much a fan of Tom, Jeff, Steve and others as they where of him.

[@kyriesampson7781]

It wasn’t like it was George’s funeral. It was a performance. Prince was gracious enough to perform in an ensemble (which he rarely did) because he liked George’s music and he was a fan of Tom Petty. I think Dhani is trying to pull his “too cool for school” routine because he surely looked like a fanboy. Plus Prince will always be a legend, you will always be a son of a legend.

[@roystonrichards1556]

Indeed, Dhani's face lit up like a thousand light bulbs when Prince leaned backwards whilst faultlessly playing.

[@angelicbean7635]

​@@roystonrichards1556 I'm glad that Dhani smiled and and kept jerking his head towards the other extremely talented artist. He was trying to gage their reactions . He has so much class like his father , definitely raised right . If he were not such a respectful, well mannered guy he could have caused an uproar . Most definitely like so many of today's so called artists making a scene .No It was not beaming admiration Dhani displayed but pure nervous energy. Prince is an extremely talented artist. He certainly can be fussy also . But it was not the time or stage to take a stand especially when the deceased man's son was alongside other great performers that were his father's long time friends and colleagues Like the family had planned from the start . When they were approached to have Prince be on stage also they graciously agreed . Prince used very poor judgement when deciding to showboat to try and upstage the other musicians. The honoree and his family deserved better from Prince . And to do that tired Ole Morris Day and the Time routine . Indeed !

[@lcrosbylola]

@@angelicbean7635 Tom Petty was thrilled that Prince was going to play! You’re totally wrong about this! George would’ve loved it!! Dhani is acting like a spoiled brat!

[@audible67]

Another dumb comment by someone obsessed over his use of the word gratuitous. And just like all those other dummies you refuse to understand what he is saying. He says it's awkward because it was awkward. It's surreal. He also says that it turned out great and it deserved to be shared with the world because it's a classic. Get over yourself.

[@audible67]

​​​@@angelicbean7635what an idiotic comment. Clearly you're not a musician. Apparently you actually don't even know that much about music. If you knew how to listen, it was pretty obvious that the initial performance was very boring and commonplace, once Prince stepped in, everyone stepped it up. Up. Just listen to what wynwood is doing on the organ once Prince gets going... Everyone loved it. Except for idiots who are probably basing their opinions on their own latent racism. Everyone also seems to forget that Prince was inducted into the Hall of Fame that very same evening. They also seem to forget that he is Prince!

[@bobinscotland]

I don't really get the criticism of Prince at all... it was Prince who had just been inducted into the Hall of Fame as well, so it WAS about him just as much, and as usual, he delivered.

[@MrTPain]

Tell them again

[@johnshreve8410]

As I understand it, the original plan was for Prince to play all of the lead guitar parts, but in rehearsal, Marc Mann played the note-for-note solo in the middle so they gave it to him, and I wonder if Prince's fabulous performance was in part fueled by that. What's up with Dhani, who knows?

[@elizabethf2104]

@@johnshreve8410 I'll tell you what's up with Dhani. He loved that, at the time. But, a decade later, people are still asking him about it and nobody has YET to ask him to sing a single solo chorus on any of the tributes for his own father. Just strum in giant strokes an acoustic and sing back up. Sorry Prince stole that show, not.

[@robcoviello5383]

O jeez i didn’t even know that. Smh thst makes a big difference.

[@charlesbalter3470]

To many of us who love rock music and the guitar, the criticism is that this playing, while certainly competent, is mostly an overly busy succession of sort of basic runs that isn’t really that amazing an example of technicianship, nor is it a solo that’s particularly memorable. It looked like what it was: a guy not wanting to rehearse and then wanking for five minutes on a guitar solo. If you’ve never heard a great guitar solo, or never heard Prince play the guitar before, I could see this being a revelation. If you have done those things, it’s a lot of busy, self-indulgent 80’s style soloing.

[@shonuffisthemaster]

you were on stage that night because you happen to be the son of someone famous, prince was on stage that night because he had worked his whole life perfecting his art and was a true musical genius.

[@YolandaFBarnes]

THIS! He should have been more appreciative of the genius with whom he found himself on stage.

[@arpitsarkar5718]

Well said

[@kalmia4066]

Exactly! I've lost respect for Dhani after watching this. No one would remember this tribute if it weren't for Prince's scorching guitar solo.

[@caughtlaughn]

Thank you! Frankly, the well-loved George Harrison song was a good, if a bit insipid performance before Prince brought it to life, turned up the heat then took it on home! Even after others I won’t single out kept breaking into Prince’s solos. So. Shame on Dhani’s “Gratuitous“ remark. Someone’s insecurities are showing. Honestly, I’ve watched this performance many times. I felt embarrassed by the other’s behaviors toward Prince. I was proud of and, actually sad for, Prince, genius that he was, being made to feel the outsider on that stage. Such divisive pettiness is absolutely NOT what music is about. Yet, Prince rose above the smallness and triviality to school them on what music, and genius, truly is.

[@gregoryzischke1372]

You guys are completely missing the whole gesture. Each of the performers were there to pay Respect to one of the greats in their chosen profession. Not because who they Knew, or who they were related to, or I feel in Prince's case what organization snubbed your guitar abilities. I think the HOF pulled the ol double whammy dissing Prince cleverly dissing him from their100 best guitar players witch angered him and then bated him To take the bait conveniently on this performance... now with the proverbial chip in his fingers he over does it big time to get even while trying to make his statement as a 100 best guitar player, he sadly took the bait hook line an sinker the creepy hof screwed prince twice. I say one night. No one should show up! What would they have to offer for entertainment without the artist NOTHING! ... Nothing! Like always

[@NickWeissMusic]

Dhani was on stage when Prince big timed him and the rest of the performers, as Prince did, because he was Prince. Prince appeared publicly very infrequently, and when he did, he had to bring it. In this case, he brought his classic Hohner Tele copy, his chops, and his crew to catch his guitar. Dhani’s perception of the event is completely believable and understandable if you’ve been part of a production, but his perception is opposite of what 99% of fans thought of the performance- so who’s right in the end? His name was Prince. And he was funky.

[@victorarena23]

he was supposed to. thats the poiunt of having him do it

[@kevynanderson4711]

@@victorarena23 Exactly! That's why it's called a 'LEAD' guitar solo. Duh

[@nomiddlenamenmn427]

I agree. Dhani is talented, but Prince was a superstar and had another iconic moment.

[@larrygeetar9309]

"Gratuitous." Really? I think not. It's one of the greatest moments of any RRHOF induction ever. The song was well done but Prince is the one who brought it home.

[@MrTPain]

That was their hope.

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

Sorry. I thought he played great but insulted George's actual friends who left their egos at the door. Prince, not a George friend used George's song boost his ego. Awesome playing. The best. He could have done the guitar toss and strut off on his own numbers. He chose George's.

[@MrTPain]

@@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712 and furthermore, whatever you think he 's done "11 hours ago " , he has paid the BIGGEST PRICE, HIS LIFE.!😶

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

@@MrTPain Grow a brain. He insulted them by not acting as part of a band and used planned theatrics that were unknown to the rest of the band to boost his ego. Did you not understand that bit? I loved Prince, and insane as his playing was, (and it was!) the crowd were already pleased. He wanted to walk off a Diva. Well, he succeeded and disrespecting everybody elses awesome playing on stage. They all shook hands or hugged. He was gone. There's a little humble phrase Clapton used calling himself a mere Squire amongst Kings. Prince never learnt that and how to show respect obviously.

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

@@MrTPain Yes I know he tragically overdosed! You bring that up about for what reason?? Tom Petty also tragically died. It is still not relevant regarding this topic!

[@jimdsnow]

Wow! My all time favorite song, and they pulled it off perfectly!! Steve and Tom nailed the vocals, and then Prince pushed it over the top with that solo.... he didnt make that guitar weep, he made it bawl like a fucking baby!! You know someone's a superstar when they throw the guitar in the air and it never comes back down!

[@DepuTJones]

You forgot Jeff Lynne..

[@Dazarabia522]

I love this comment

[@adamsmithhobbs4702]

Steve didnt sing

[@GmasterB89]

They remastered the video in 2021 and now you see the guitar being caught by someone in the front

[@prince4ever339]

I don't think it was to much. Actually that was a little tamed Prince. Prince loved the Beatles and the solo was for George. The moment when Prince leans back and the guy holds him, you see a great smile from Tom and Dhani. Great moment in rock history.

[@zenren206]

Oh dhanni. Prince was the greatest musician on the stage that night my good lad!

[@DepuTJones]

His riff was fantastic, no doubt... Greatest musician? Sorry, that honor goes to Jeff Lynne.

[@theabominabledr.phibes1917]

@@DepuTJones As a fan of Electric Light Orchestra and Prince, I respectfully disagree. The ELO catalogue pales in comparison to Prince's, he's put out more great, diverse songs that ELO ever even recorded. Outside of Out Of The Blue, ELO have been incredibly hit and miss. Secret Messages and Balance Of Power are entirely misses, whereas Prince still had great songs in him right up to the end.

[@sampson3121]

Jeff Lynne lol right

[@glenncooper3524]

Ya it's kinda sad. Although I heard he was more mean about it. it's not that bad. They just are butt hurt he stole the show

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

@@DepuTJones Hell yes and Marc Mann!

[@mikey-fn7hn]

prince was awesome. i only watch it to see him play

[@Cosmogirl014]

same here!

[@davidpacholski7144]

Me Too!!!, lol

[@ChrisCross2014]

Same here.

[@logan1963uk]

Same!

[@jkj10]

He was about the only one worth watching on that stage haha..I mean, they all sound great together so everybody is playing their part well, but it would've been pretty boring to watch without Prince on that stage.

[@andreaschlapek780]

Big Beatles Fan.. But without Prince no one would remember this performance...

[@philosophie8744]

In my opinion Prince was playing for George because he made his guitar weep in tribute

[@faborwick5887]

What performance?

[@dickyt1318]

Gratuitous! Prince may have upstaged his friends but he did what Prince does [or did] and to my mind made the tribute to his Father extra special.

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

By acting like a diva to George's actual friends? I thought he insulted them. Eric Clapton never needed the theatrics to be a guitar hero amongst his friends!

[@MrTPain]

@@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712 Because you want him to be your Guitar Hero , Prince was a REAL Guitar Hero , my friend ...not saying they weren't, but Prince was!

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

@@MrTPain I want him to be? Wrong. He was inspired by his seniors! He was living proof of what they achieved.

[@MrTPain]

@@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712 I'm done

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

@@MrTPain Phew!

[@sbalsamo410]

Well this broke my heart. You can see the connection Prince had with all the other “big” stars on that stage. And they were all in awe.

[@johnremp3470]

Yea let's bring in one of the best guitarists of all time, to strum a few chords.

[@Lotusflwr6758]

Exactly😆! Prince was invited to join in BECAUSE people appreciated his showmanship.

[@angiemottershead1394]

Do not take it away from Prince. Thats the most mesmorising moment and jawdropping performance ever witnessed. Prince clearly invented the guitar. Lifelong Prince fan. And fan of the Beatles. Miss you all. 😪❤

[@jakeschmell]

If Prince hadn’t been there. It would NOT have been iconic. And no one would be talking about it. Period.

[@deathbychillisauce]

Tom Petty's on record saying his reaction to the solo was, yeh this is pretty cool - as in amazing. Dhani may well be right in saying it wasn't expected and may well have put two great musicians in the shade. But I agree with everyone who has commented that he has failed to appreciate the reach that Prince's performance has generated for the memorial, the sheer jaw-dropping wonderfulness of the solo (I'm a massive Hendrix fan but I've watched this more times on KZbin than anything else), and that he was privileged enough to have the best seat in the house. Kind of wish I hadn't seen this. But going to watch the performance again. That's rock 'n' roll.

[@tammyf.7864]

I'm with you, Richard. I wish I never knew that Dhani Harrison was so petty - no pun intended - about Prince's performance.

[@tthompson4768]

Yes sir...

[@tammyf.7864]

Yeah. I, too, wish I never heard that Dhani was throwing shade after this performance. (He probably heard people saying things, and this swayed his opinion because he was clearly loving it on stage in the moment!)

[@gregbaker9857]

@@tammyf.7864 For Christsakes, he literally says "but it went down so well"...Bitter, I don't think so!

[@tammyf.7864]

@@gregbaker9857 I don't think I said he was bitter. I said - pun intended - that Dhani was acting "petty." (See what I did there?) Anyway, he should have just been posing grateful that Prince joined them in honoring his dad.

[@theabominabledr.phibes1917]

It wasn't just George's night, Prince was inducted into the Hall of Fame that year as well so the performance was as much a showcase of his artistry as George's. Prince played it his way and knocked it out of the park, everyone acknowledges it as an extraordinary performance. It's a shame Dhani called it "gratuitous", I think that's pretty disrespectful. Prince was as great a performer as anyone and he did what great performers do. It's not gratuity, it's rock and roll.

[@kalmia4066]

Well said.

[@mikewalsh5872]

I mean, who didn’t “love” Prince’s solo? Phenomenal! The only thing that made that song as classic as it was with all of them on the stage….Prince. The Man, the Myth, the LEGEND!

[@iyasalqasem4090]

Reading the comments here and listening to the interview, it seemed that the "gratuitous" comment was more about the guitar being thrown than the solo. He goes on to say "A moment to be shared with the whole human race", "a classic moment". This song was one of my favourites of all time. From decades before I saw Prince's take. But Prince took it, and built something exhilarating on top of it. This was an possessed, harmonic, syncopated performance that just added a whole other layer of beauty. I suspect a great artist like George Harrison would have approved and been flattered. It's a song that was great before and after Prince's solo. He just gave it an incredibly inspired interpretation.

[@stubmandrel]

Well... however folks choose to cut it, that solo has gone down in rock history and makes a might fine stick to beat anyone who thinks Prince was a 'pop star'.

[@qmaloney]

Yeah I think he probably regrets the gratuitous comment we can all misspeak. I’ve seen all these acts live and Prince was in a league of his own. That rendition was pretty forgettable until Prince transformed the performance into a piece of pure magic I find myself often revisiting.

[@marmac83]

He didn't misspeak.

[@GStone-rs3ru]

Prince was the Muhammad Ali of the music world. Anyone who didn't know how flashy those two were and were surprised with their showmanship must live under a rock.

[@fornoparticularreason7205]

I respectfully disagree Prince was little Richard and Jimmy Hendrix combined which is on another level.

[@mikewho822]

Prince is the main reason this performance will be remembered as one of the greatest ever at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It’s called Rock and Roll for a reason!! This dude needs to reevaluate its meaning, seriously. He shared the stage with one of several amazing legends. The fact they even were able to convince Prince to perform is a feat in itself. He should be grateful they brought together such a collection of artists to commemorate his dads music. To call it gratuitous shows a serious lack of respect for the absolute talent he shared the stage with. Might be a bit of jealousy because he knows he could never achieve that level of musicianship on a guitar, or any instrument for that matter. I mean, Prince was proficient at 27 of them.

[@kalmia4066]

Yes!

[@markjohnson5646]

The only reason

[@kaeserd]

I think when you're dad is george harrison and your surrounded by legends everyday prince is probably no big deal. His perspective is gonna be a bit different than ours.

[@jannetawarabs6144]

He said the it was classical xx

[@ithiopiamckinney5096]

@@kaeserd the Beatles all of them were subpar musicians at best, ask real musicians that worked with them

[@rambanita]

Dhani...you sound a little bitter ..however you got it right when you said , it was a moment that needed to be witnessed by the human race...! Prince was an impeccable polished and fearless performer. I get, that to people who weren't as Gutsy as he was, it would be very confronting to see him "perform " especially if they are just standing in their jeans and sloppy joes tickling the fret boards...

[@sheisawarenow3753]

rambanita, 😂😂😂😂

[@carlitosway9422]

How do i find you .. you are very intelligent X

[@BrianBrayMedia]

I heard no bitterness in any of this. Anything specific catch your ear?

[@rambanita]

@@BrianBrayMedia the feeling behind his words ..listen again

[@chucklebutt4470]

@@rambanita I think he only said Prince's guitar throw was gratuitous? We're all lucky we got to see that performance. I'm lucky to have seen Prince live on multiple occasions and there won't be another one like him.

[@leonwilliams3966]

He added fire to the performance That guitar solo was outstanding He’s a legit entertainer 🎸🎸

[@mosesdesilva5573]

Prince... Holy Shit! Gratuitous my A-Piece!! Phenomenal just phenomenal

[@garyt4551]

Remember Dear Dhani whoever organized this event chose to shine a spotlight on Prince as he began his part !I just can't see Prince fading into the background with the spotlight on him!!!

[@jackphillips2403]

Prince's light can not be dimmed on stage. Amazing performance. He made that one of the best moments in rock and roll live performances

[@az8039]

Dude prince had been listening to that song longer then George’s son has been alive.

[@DeejayJeanP]

If Prince wasn't in that performance, I never would've heard of it, or you, Dhani.

[@adamkhan1480]

He is literally George Harrison’s son lmao the concert is for his dead father and Prince had a point to prove and that was it. I’m saying this even though I thoroughly enjoy the performance and find the solo awesome but I think respecting his opinion is necessary

[@louisbarron1351]

@@adamkhan1480 No, it's not necessary.

[@kalmia4066]

Best comment! Exactly!

[@laceybarkley5739]

He was very fortunate to be the son of a Beatle. But without a shadow of a doubt, the highlight of his life was playing on stage with true rock royalty. No matter how mediocre his playing is, and no matter how many guest appearances he makes because of who his father was, he will always be remembered for sharing the stage with Prince back in 2004.

[@pendensne9309]

Lacey Barkley well said

[@tominrochester]

You must be right- Having two loving parents, and all the other great things that he's had in his life couldn't possibly compare to being able to perform on stage with Prince! Not "highlight of his musical life" not "one of the highlights of his life" but simply "highlight of his life" We got our priorities down perfect- don't let anyone tell ya different! hahaha

[@victorarena23]

he may not be a virtuoso Guitarist given who you're comparing him to, with but he is a very talented artist. He writes great melodies and has written a number of movie scores. He is definitely talented

[@victorarena23]

no, he makes it because he's learned from some of the best musicians and producers out there. He knows his stuff and can make some beautiful music. His new sort of techno stuff may not be my taste but he's done work for film that I like a lot. he's good.

[@lynnettemqz]

"No matter how mediocre his playing is, and no matter how many guest appearances he makes because of who his father was, he will always be remembered for sharing the stage with Prince back in 2004." And for being a gigantically pretentious tit.

[@melaniejackson8932]

Prince seemed to be a pretty humble cat. He never moved out of his neighborhood,. I read recounts of his just walking around his neighborhood alone, going to the supermarket alone. I saw a picture of him walking into Walgreens. With all of his "flamboyance" on stage, I believe in life he tried to keep it real. Finally, regardless of Dhani calling Prince's contribution "gratuitous", Prince respected the song by just adding a different flavor throughout his solo.

[@gaylahuckaby1]

Prince made that the greatest tribute without him we wouldn't still be talking about it Prince his Roylabadness 🎸💜🔥🎶🎸💜🙏🏽

[@dsquare8029]

I’ve watched that clip a hundred times…Dhani has a shit eaten grin on before Prince starts his solo cause he’s he’s a fan boy and loving what Prince is doing…hell that’s why I watch it!…I love everyone of those guys but Prince stole that performance!

[@Pope_Bourbon_II]

Tom Petty actually told Prince to keep going. He knew that performance would be legendary and remembered for years.

[@guidodelgiudice5]

Prince being Prince and thank God for that.

[@geecollins4915]

Jealousy has no place in music... PRINCE made this a memorable moment that one will NEVER forget !!!! It was an AWESOME solo by PRINCE!!!!!

[@el34glo59]

Lmfao. He wasn't jealous. He knows he can shred. He's pissed he made it about himself

[@jdog4534]

I call bullshit. This kid was obviously starstruck and in complete awe of Prince. He could barely contain himself. There's nothing wrong with that but dont deny it or call it something different or better. If you read the interview of Tom Petty about that performance, even Tom Petty was star stricken and in awe of Prince and happy to have him in the lineup. When they asked Prince if he'd participate, Prince said he would but wouldn't sign any contract and didn't rehearse with the band. He claimed he'd never heard the song before but he guaranteed they would all be pleased with his performance . The deal was sealed with a handshake only and nobody knew what to expect. Everyone in the house was amazed by what Prince brought to the show. They had no idea he was going to lay back off the front of the stage like that. Tom Petty said he couldn't wait to see what Prince was going to do. The only reason Prince agreed to the gig was because he'd always wanted to jam with Tom Petty. That's why he bowed backwards in front of him. It was out of respect. ..and at the end, when Prince tossed his guitar up in the air and walked away, nobody saw where it went. The drummer said it was like it vanished. That man was one very devoted and gifted entertainer. He played 27 different instruments well and recorded, on average, an album a week for years and they went right into his personal vault. This Harrison kid needs to pull his head put of his ass. Id hate to have to smell his breath. His dad would have appreciated it all.

[@victorarena23]

if he said he'd never heard the song before, he lied. Believe me, if he's a guitarist he's played that song before, and he sure as hell worked out what he was going to do the night before. that's ok though because it was a great performance

[@jdog4534]

victor arena of course he did, no doubt.

[@GeneralBuckNaked]

victor arena .. The only thing is.. If u listen to any verson of this song.. The melody and harmony in Prince's version of the solo, sounds completely different then the approach everyone else took at it.. U can easily get the hang of a song uve never heard, when ur THAT experienced on the guitar. And obviously because he didnt have to come in until the very end. Hes got a magical ear for music. He knew exactly what he was doin

[@victorarena23]

it's while my guitar gently weeps from the white album 1968. he's a musician. He's heard the song before and jammed to it 1000 times in his head or for real. Plus all he did was take out his bag of tricks and play them all. some fit ,some didn't, but it was a show, no doubt.

[@GeneralBuckNaked]

victor arena ... Well in that case. I dont know wtf YOU were listening to.. Cuz i didnt hear ANY part of that solo that didnt fit

[@MetaFootballTV]

The back bend was possibly an OFFER UP TO HEAVEN to George. The guitar throw is something Prince has done for years. Gratuitous........is his comment regarding Prince's class, which he himself would never permit disrespect towards other great talents.

[@innoc3ntbystndr]

Rip Tom and Prince... Keep on rocking in heaven.

[@skygazer6898]

Tom not dead!

[@neillevy4087]

Weird about-face statement from him. Tom was totally vibing with Prince, Dhani was smiling ear to ear. Tacit acceptance and delight from everybody on stage as to how Prince was glorifying and honouring a great song. Momentary lapse in judgement on this interview perhaps

[@stoshrice4060]

He didn't sound like he meant it in a bad way, just in a young person's view of being the buffer between these older cats and Prince, who's virtuosity the mass public didn't become aware of until the 80's. Dhani looks young enough that he grew up with Prince being a megastar and revered all of them equally, it appeared he was chuckling thinking like "Oh man this is making the Wilburys uncomfortable." Either way Prince owned that solo, one of the best I've ever seen

[@MrTPain]

NO BUFFER WAS NEEDED OR APPLIED

[@cjbotts]

Mr. T Pain 60 58 lol

[@vonteflon]

Stosh Rice Exactly. Some people seem to have taken the “gratuitous” comment too seriously. Fact is it was gratuitous, literally; it was also awesome and Dhani clearly loved it. Those people need to watch the video again - look at the expression on Dhani’s face when Prince steps up to start his solo, he’s like “here we go!!”

[@doinkily9371]

Exactly this! By the way I heard people talk about this interview I thought I was going to hear Dhani saying something bad about Prince's solo, but he really didn't. Prince's solo was definitely "gratuitous", but that's part of what makes it so memorable! Every time I watch it, I can't help but think "what the hell is he doing?!?" while laughing and enjoying it. Sounds like Dhani has a similar feeling about it.

[@marmac83]

Well, even if he didn't mean it in a bad way, it is TAKEN in a bad way, for good reason.

[@najinelson6742]

Prince made the world know who Dany is and he did what he always did as one of the best performers ever.

[@solidaz80]

Prince Solo...Epic! The weeping began at that point

[@naturenupe6]

Just imagine what Prince would say in response to this kid.

[@g4life804]

Exactly

[@benjaminjoeBF3]

something like "exxxcuse me?!" while rolling his eyes

[@SimBol1216]

"Why don't you purify yourself in the waters of Lake Minnetonka"

[@abrilgomez9550]

"He's just jealous because I'm fabulous".

[@Galworld761]

Prince made the guitar weep. Until that point, the vocals were the only thing keeping me engaged. I love Tom’s voice.

[@purpracer]

That "gratuitous" moment was Prince being Prince. His passion came through his performance. You can say the lean back to his body guard was "a bit much" but not to real fans who understand Prince.

[@mickd6942]

Prince’s performance was the stuff of legend, it’s great to hear him speak of Tom petty and Jeff Lynne like that

[@bmmk12]

It was a stage of Legends, playing like Legends, for a Legend. I just don't understand why any of this is controversial? You expect a tribute to be epic, and you invite an artist like Prince on stage to make it epic!

[@deanc.5984]

PRINCE is AMAZING.

[@phillipdieringer5529]

Prince was the Mozart of OUR music. Mozart spent the late 18th century plowing deep furrows in new ground,so, how could we expect anything less from Prince?

[@enriquesanchez662]

I didn't care too much about this song, and I've been an Eric Clapton fan since forever, but when I heard Prince's solo it blew my mind. He took it to the next level.

[@MyDaisy66]

Gratuitous! How many of us forward straight to Prince and watch his amazing performance. If Prince wasn’t there, the video wouldn’t have half the hits it has. Prince was outstanding. It wasn’t his style to strum a guitar the way they do. What he did was absolutely his own style. What was they expecting!

[@jegca]

Gratuitous? Prince was making his guitar weep. You were just making yours whimper.

[@jaysenst.charlesthelakehea9327]

The Prince performance is exactly what rock and roll needs and more of it please! Too many times these TV ceremony affairs are shoe gazing events. Too be critical in anyway is very shallow IMO. People wonder why today's younger generations listen to Rap etc., instead of great guitar based rock? Well, it's because of milk and toast attitudes like this. This thinking, takes the danger out of rock and roll, with Prince, every note he plays is dangerous because you don't know where he going, you just need to hang on for the wild ride and count yourself lucky that you were able to experience a musical event that was history in the making.

[@bEASToUTtHEbOX]

agree, agree, and agree.

[@danielcowan8673]

Yep, in a sea of commercial banality Prince shines bright.

[@musekic4654]

Prince showboating?... In rock-n-roll??? Unforgivable.

[@KevinHallDJMrSwiv]

Best comment

[@sued6221]

Posted on George's birthday. Dhani's attitude toward Prince now is disappointing. I watch that solo over and over. It's one of the greatest.

[@somvox4578]

Prince was the greatest artist on this stage and you Dhani, are just a lucky boy

[@victorarena23]

Really. do you have any idea how much music was in that band? petty winwood and Lynn. Greatest artist? Please. in fact winwood could have, would have, done a great job on guitar. He's a great guitarist himself.

[@somvox4578]

My friend, i know ELO, Heartbreakers, Blindfaith And Wilburys enough to give my humble opinion that Prince , yes, was the greatest there

[@elizabethf2104]

@@victorarena23 Winwood is an asshole and, while his stuff is "good", he's no Prince. Yea, he goes to my damn church, I know he's an asshole. And, judging by the rare times he graces us with his presence onstage, he's no Prince.

[@spaulinit]

The other musicians loved Prince's performance. You could see it by the way they angled their bodies towards him/ smiled etc.. Musicians know talent and they knew that Prince was talent. I can imagine Dhani at the age he was, feeling awkward because of how he thought Petty and Lynne might feel, but he was young and I think he misjudged it. Ultimately everyone knows who the genius was on that stage. And gratuitous? Of course it was, it was Prince.

[@Tarantulisimo]

Be easy Prince fans: Dhani's not knocking Prince -- Listen to his entire comment, note the tongue-in-cheekness of it, & more importantly remember his face during the actual performance. He's speaking from the POV of an observer & speaking to the context of the occasion. I remember watching the ceremony "live", & even I as a Prince fan kinda felt like P was maybe a little over the top in contrast to the others on stage, & especially in contrast to the sadness & somber vibe keading into the preformance...Of course now almost 20 years later, it's heralded as one of the greatest performances ever.....It was such a contrast of styles & eras -- as is inevitable with awards show jam sessions/collaborations, but it all came together beautifully & they pulled it off perfectly....

[@ahbowakawapoussepousse2712]

Beautiful Dhani! Brought up so well! I knew he was so close to Tom and Jeff because both of them have mentioned their love for him like a son. I was so sad when Tom died. I wept tears for Dhani too.💖RIP George, Tom and Prince.

[@karenruby2578]

This guy doesn't know how lucky is he was and is. Jealous, much? Anyone who is a true "artist" would be so over the moon to have been on stage with Prince that night. It was an amazing performance. Prince killed. I was not a Prince fan. He was hitting it big when I was in high school, but his music was not my cup of tea. After watching this performance I am in awe of Prince. Best guitar player ever! I have watched it many times and I never tire of it. It's simply exquisite. It makes your heart/spirit sing! You just know it's something out of this world special. I am going to have to forget Dhani's comments. I should not have watched this interview. It's like he's book burning or something. What the hell!?! Is he trying to ruin it for everyone else? He must know how other people feel about it. Very regrettable words I think. Kind of foul. Take it back Mr. Harrison. I am going to pretend that you were joking because your face is featured a lot in the video.

[@boiler3285]

Dhani's comment is undermines his own father. One of the greatest musicians of all time agrees to play his song as a tribute, kills it, and you moan about it? Loser.

[@danielcowan8673]

That's what made Prince a great guitarist; the ability to channel pure emotion.

[@tammyf.7864]

Karen, to see more of Prince's guitar-playing genius, go to a video of him playing guitar at the Montreux Jazz Festival during the song "Empty Room" at around minute 3:21 here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5Paln-jbbx6qsU And at the festival during his rendition of "All Shook Up" at around minute 7:33 here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qV7OgIBqgrpjrtE

[@karenruby2578]

Tammy F. Thanks for the tip! He is so good!

[@tammyf.7864]

@@karenruby2578 Right? I love the way he gets lost in his guitar playing. It's like he's singing through the guitar! Genius! *sigh* I miss him.

[@gburcaw]

Being a child of a legend does not make you one. That is the only reason you had the honor of being on the same stage as Prince. I’ve already forgotten who you are.

[@robbiegallagher7821]

All the other guys knew they were there simply to honour George Harrison. Prince felt somehow it was necessary to prove how well he could play,turn it into a "PRINCE SHOW" and strut off the stage arrogantly,without even acknowledging the audience (or even the band!!)as if HE was the star of the show. I love Prince,I think he is a genius. I am amazed by his musical abilities and proficiency,but,man,the whole world is already aware of your talents, show some humility and respect,today is not about you!

[@paf319]

Had Prince been lowkey and not his flamboyant-self he would have been criticised too for not bothering to give his best for this tribute... You can't please everyone, especially when you are so good in so many departments, and need to fit in other artists' domain of excellence... And for the arrogant walk-out, he used to do it at his own shows, sudently saying Don't hate me cause i'm fabulous, and bye bye, so i don't think it was meant against his co-performers, it was just him bring who he was, like all the others

[@ransombey6520]

Wow!!! He insulted Prince…this was the best version of this song I ever heard.

[@MrFraiche]

That gratuitous moment may have been the best guitar solo of all time. The song, the moment, the stage, the artist, the emotion, the otherworldly skill. Absolutely legendary.

[@gabrielmarcal683]

That doesnt make any sense. Prince is as famous and important as the other two, maybe even more, so how could you have Prince playing there without singing or doing something important to the performance? The camera barely shows Prince until the moment his solo comes, so it really seems as it was all planned to be like that.

[@arielbarazani8964]

I wouldn’t know who Dhani is if it wasn’t for this performance. Big Prince fan and this is one of my favourites of his. There was a version of this where you can see and hear Dhani after the show looking for Prince to give him a hug. So stop the BS, Dhani. I’m on to you. You loved it.

[@Nirotix]

Prince was a true musician knowing how to play well over a dozen instruments himself, producing all his own albums. If he's there to play, HE'S THERE TO PLAY!

[@kalmia4066]

Yessss!

[@donnakahriger25]

He is a true prodigy...played > a dozen instruments and all self-taught. Sheesh!

[@foolycoolyface]

Prince absolutely saves this performance. It was very boring and repetitive with no energy or emotion, until Prince saved the day.. I am not even a prince fan and I will say that Its probably the best timed and played solos of all time.

[@joelledon8973]

This interview blew my mind. He looks like he was enjoying Prince's performance more than anyone. Tom Petty looks a little annoyed, Dhani must not be able to think for himself. Prince wasn't even on Rolling Stones list of great guitarist until this performance forced them to pull their heads out of their @$$e$ and give him some recognition for what a great talent he was.

[@dennisnbrown]

Still will go down in history as being at the pinnacle of his craft. No other performer has his bag of trick. Still unbelievable that he is gone

[@dannyh5937]

I think you can see Petty smiling while Prince plays his ass off.

[@tammyf.7864]

Tom Petty wasn't annoyed. That's his resting face most of the time when he's playing. Ha! No, really, though. Tom had on what many call the "stank face" - when someone is just so good that it's blowing everyone away. Look up interviews with Tom and he talks about his feelings during that performance and how he was giving Prince that 'this-is-going-so-well' look. And Dhani may have been influenced by others after that performance, but you can tell when he's on the stage that he's loving every minute of Prince's performance.

[@viktoriyagereluk8463]

Where did you pull out that Tom was ever annoyed?

[@14moldyhamsandwich]

prince gave that song the kick in the ass it needed. end of story !

[@meacomefeyou]

I thought Dhani smile saw good weather coming to finish off in crashin fashion. The lightning went well with the slow Rolling cloud, the incoming rain that finalised as one with the lightning.Perfect nature element balanced formula (chemistry) in that soup (group). Real recognises real! The slow clouds, the rain, and the lightning strikes made everything harmonise, naturally, artistically and beautifully. Real recognisees real. Thank you Jehovah God for all our influential Legends we bared witness to today, Amen

[@gwalker5327]

Gratuitous?!? I think "awesome" is the word you're looking for. Legendary guitarist and, if possible, even more legendary performer. Never heard of Dhani Harrison.

[@TheOne-nu4kx]

Thanks to Prince's epic performance that band, what's it called again, has a wee bit of relevancy. As stated previously, if it wasn't for Prince turning the excitement level up to 1000, the joint would have been a funeral and that video would be buried so deep, you would have to use seismic waves to find that B.

[@bompravozcantoefonoaudiolo8682]

Tom Petty got it. Prince just give it a beautiful solo ! Different flavor that Eric Clapton,but hey, I'm sure Clapton liked the solo..he is a Prince fan ! It was a pice of art !

[@Galaxie500IN]

While Prince was being Prince, all those guys were just The Revolution.

[@jskaralia]

The One ...so true!! 😂😂

[@ttownkeith]

Given that the rest of the players sort of grew up with George and were pretty close to him, it's easy to understand why they might be pretty somber. Prince didn't have that weight on him and he let it rip. I'm also suspecting that Dhani was heavily influenced by his Mom, who supposedly didn't even want Prince on the stage.

[@rockssolid7471]

Clapton is definitely a Prince fan, and said he was a true genius and huge inspiration to him.

[@Dreamer-lv5ke]

We are shocked by your statement! Gratuitous!? How dare you! We had took a liking to what seemed like you enjoying The Legend PRINCE performance. When we watch it's like a thousand Purple butterflies kissing us from head to toe. The end!💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@unopine]

Prince stole the show for a couple moments with his guitar playing. It was flawless- he just nailed it and he knew it. Even alongside the prodigal amount of talent up there, Prince did what he does and took center stage with ability. The notes he grabbed with those bends were straight ecstasy- until seeing this, I didn't know he was that good.

[@SuperJupiter9]

If it hadnt been for Prince that video wouldn't have reach over 100M views, nuff said M.Harrison. Btw it was also Prince's night.

[@hannaj4032]

For those saying Prince did this to honor George, that’s not entirely true. He was a RRHOF inductee that same year and was already going to be in attendance. The producer of the show thought it would be great to have him collaborate on the Harrison tribute because these unique collaborations are what make the ceremony memorable for musicians and fans. Prince has always been one of the most underrated guitar players. Olivia and Dhani Harrison did not want Prince on George’s tribute. The producer appealed to Tom ( Petty) whom the Harrisons were close with to resolve the issue. So yes Dhani had a bit of an attitude during the song. That’s also why Tom showed such encouragement to Prince. The two became friends after that and as we all now know died a year apart. Meanwhile we’re stuck with talentless wannabes like Dhani.

[@WILDOAT6]

Thank goodness Prince appeared I was almost slept.

[@blueberrysoup1877]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@heaygacab8912]

Same here

[@sylvestre.rawminey]

Indeed...

[@kalmia4066]

Yup lol

[@pixels2u]

so glad Olivia Harrison relented and allowed Prince to be involved in the finale song LOL I wonder what SHE thought of his mindblowing solo afterwards. of course, prince completely upstaged them all (and they were/are all amazingly excellent musicians). if Rolling Stone's leaving him off their list of top 100 guitarists inspired this as incredible revenge, i'm sooo glad they snubbed him! =D

[@sschevy8558]

Don’t know why he said that?? Kid maybe you need to take a look at Princes performance again. Effortless God like strokes and notes! The blending Prince did that night was sublime. Crisp yet full and rich. Even his guitar took off like a rocket as it had had enough that night. Show a little more respect for the blessing you had that night to be on that stage with a talent most can’t even comprehend.

[@karenruby2578]

Well said. Hear. Hear.

[@boiler3285]

Exactly, if you ask Prince to perform, it's Prince who is going to perform. Absurd to ask him to dumb it down so he doesn't hurt anybody's feelings. If they knew anything at all about the guy they would have known this is what he was going to bring to the table. He is playing George's song, so he is showing respect. He deserved to have that respect returned.

[@sheldontapp3769]

Well said

[@NataliaCN7]

Jealousy! That's exactly what he feels! Jealous person couldn't hold that jealous comment! Gratuitous was what you said about Prince! Totally uncalled for.