'The Revolution' Reunites for Bobby Z and Heart Disease Awareness

MINNEAPOLIS, Nov. 8, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Bobby Z, drummer for Prince & The Revolution, will celebrate the one year anniversary of surviving his near-fatal heart attack in 2011 with a rare reunion performance of The Revolution -- Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, Brown Mark, Dr. Fink and Bobby Z — to benefit heart-health awareness, at First Avenue Main Room, Sunday, February 19, 2012, at 8 p.m.

The concert, billed as a 'Benefit 2 Celebrate Life!' and presented by Z and the American Heart Association, will feature The Revolution, along with heart-health and life-saving information and inspiring stories of survival.  The Revolution hasn't played together since 2003.

“The American Heart Association is honored to partner with Bobby Z and The Revolution on this concert,” said Gretchen Leiterman, Twin Cities Board chair for the American Heart Association and vice president of Regions Hospital. “We appreciate the spotlight that they are shining on this prevalent, and largely preventable, disease.”

Bobby Z, best known as a drummer for Prince & The Revolution, was in critical condition after three blocked arteries caused a heart attack in February 2011. Doctors were able to open his blockages with three stents which has allowed Z to make a full recovery.

“Life is completely different now,” Z said. “Every moment has a new appreciation. I am still overwhelmed by all the thoughts and prayers I received from all over the world. This concert is for the fans. I am so honored and thrilled that The Revolution will join me in this celebration of my recovery. This will be an intimate show with music and stories.”  

Wendy and Lisa added, “Our hearts were broken when we heard that our dear friend, and bandmate Bobby Z had had a heart attack. He was the heart, the pulse, the beat of our band. We can't wait to share the stage as one again, and help others in a fight against broken hearts caused by heart disease. The beat goes on!”

The Revolution was featured in the GRAMMY and Academy Award-winning score from the iconic film Purple Rain. Bobby Z performed with Prince for 10 years. “I want to personally thank Prince for his emotional support for me and my family during a very difficult time. That has meant a lot to me,” added Z.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Z's MyPurpleHeart.org for continued heart-health education, and the American Heart Association. Z is also a featured speaker, sharing his story, at the American Heart Association’s annual Twin Cities “Heart & Stroke Gala” on Dec. 10, 2011, at The Depot in Minneapolis.

For ticket information for The Revolution concert, contact First Avenue at www.first-avenue.com. Tickets go on sale Monday, November 21, 2011 at 11 a.m. CST.

SOURCE American Heart Association