Aretha Franklin Performs Powerful Cover Of Prince's 'Purple Rain'

Prince’s purple reign lives on!

Nearly two weeks since the music icon’s untimely passing, on Friday evening Aretha Franklin and renowned pianist and composer Herbie Hancock celebrated his legacy during this year’s annual “Jazz At The White House” All-Star global concert event.

Prior to the powerful tribute performance--which also included musicians Robert Glasper, Terrace Martin, Ben Williams, Terri Lyne Carrington, and rapper Rapsody--Hancock reflected on the music pioneer’s impact on music history.

“Last week we lost a legend, an icon. The son of a Jazz pianist, whose music inspired a new generation of artists to create without boundaries,” Hancock said to those in attendance. “Courageous, playful, wise, brilliant, and a feast for the eyes and ears, Prince epitomized the word music. And tonight, we celebrate his incredible virtuosity and pay tribute to his legacy that spans every musical genre.”

Check out the special tribute performance in the clip above (beginning at the 1:10:00 mark).