On May 4, lawmakers in Minnesota voted to rename a seven-mile stretch of State Highway 5 in the Minneapolis suburbs of Chanhassen and Eden Prairie after Prince. If signed into law by Governor Tim Walz, the large stretch of roadway will be named Prince Rogers Nelson Memorial Highway.
“Members — or I suppose, dearly beloved — we are gathered here today to get through this thing called the 2023 legislative session,” Minnesota Senator Julia Coleman said during Tuesday’s session.
“Though we lost him far too soon, his music and his legacy will live on forever.”
This is far from the first time that the legendary musician has been recognized by lawmakers. Back in 2011, Purple Rain was added to the National Film Registry. His music has also appeared on the annual playlist of former President Barack Obama.
“Prince was a true genius, a visionary artist who pushed the boundaries of music and cultures in ways that will never be forgotten,” Minnesota Senator Julia Coleman told her colleagues, according to Billboard.
“His influence can be heard in the work of countless musicians who came after him, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists to this day.”