Minnesota Lawmakers Want to Make It Rain Purple: Prince and Bob Dylan Could Be Official State Songs

Hold onto your headphones, music lovers — Minnesota is about to get a rock ‘n’ roll remix! In a move that’s giving serious main character energy to the state legislature, some Minnesota lawmakers are calling for legendary tunes by homegrown icons Prince and Bob Dylan to be crowned as official state songs. And honestly? We're here for it.

Yes, you read that right. Minnesota — already known for its 10,000 lakes and snowy winters — might soon be officially vibing to a playlist featuring “Purple Rain” and “Like a Rolling Stone.” It’s a musical moment straight out of Hollywood, but it’s happening in the Land of 10,000 Legends. Talk about turning up the volume on state pride!

🎤 Why the Sudden Surge of Star Power?

For decades, “Hail! Minnesota” has served as the state’s official anthem. It’s dignified, it’s traditional — but it doesn’t exactly scream Gen Z TikTok remix. That’s where Prince and Dylan come in.

Minnesota legislators have introduced a proposal aiming to recognize a wider, richer tapestry of the state’s cultural heritage. And who better to represent Minnesota’s musical roots than the royal himself, Prince, and lyrical genius Bob Dylan? Both artists were born and raised in the North Star State and went on to become international legends.

State Representative Lucy Rehm, DFL-Chanhassen, is leading the charge to include Prince’s “Purple Rain” as an official state anthem. Meanwhile, a separate push is underway to honor Bob Dylan’s poetic contributions — likely with a nod to his legendary track “Blowin’ in the Wind” or “Like a Rolling Stone.”

“Prince and Dylan are embedded in the soul of Minnesota," said Rep. Rehm in a recent statement. “By recognizing their songs, we’re honoring the artistic legacy that’s defined our state and inspired the world.”

🎶 ‘Purple Rain’ Meets State Pride? Iconic.

Prince’s “Purple Rain” is more than a power ballad — it’s a cultural moment. Released in 1984, the song — and the accompanying movie — transformed the Chanhassen-born virtuoso into a global phenomenon. And let’s not forget: Prince recorded much of his iconic catalog at his Paisley Park estate in Minnesota, which has since become a fan mecca.

Naming “Purple Rain” an official state song would be a bold — and frankly fabulous — declaration of Minnesota’s influence on pop culture.

Meanwhile, Bob Dylan — original name Robert Zimmerman — grew up in Hibbing, Minnesota, and changed the face of American music with his poetic, political, and rebellious songwriting. Including one of his tracks would be an ultimate nod to Minnesota’s folk and rock legacy.

🎧 Not Everyone is Ready to Hit Play

Of course, not everyone's jamming to this playlist just yet. Some critics argue that altering the list of official state songs could open a Pandora’s box of debates: Which songs? Which artists? Where does it end?

Others are raising questions about licensing rights, especially when it comes to using copyrighted music for official state functions.

But supporters say the proposal isn’t necessarily about replacing “Hail! Minnesota,” but rather expanding the state’s official list to reflect a broader, more inclusive representation of its cultural icons.

📣 Fan Reaction? A Standing Ovation!

The internet is already buzzing with excitement.

On Twitter (X, if you’re keeping it current), fans are calling this “the most Minnesota thing ever” and praising lawmakers for “finally doing something fun.” TikTok and Instagram Reels are lighting up with DIY tributes, as users imagine what it would look like to have “Purple Rain” play before a Twins game or during the State Fair’s fireworks finale.

“The idea of Prince being our anthem is EVERYTHING,” wrote one user. “Just imagine a school band playing Purple Rain. I’d cry!”

📌 What’s Next?

The bills are still in early stages, but momentum is building. If passed, Minnesota would join a growing list of states modernizing their cultural symbols with nods to contemporary art, music, and social movements.

Whether it’s to inspire young people, honor music legends, or simply upgrade the state’s overall vibe, the movement has caught fire — and this is one playlist we can all be excited about.

So, Minnesota — are you ready to dance in the purple rain or roll with Dylan’s poetic soul? Either way, your soundtrack is about to get a whole lot cooler.

Stay tuned (literally), because this could be one of the most legendary state updates yet.

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