BALTIMORE — Prince has announced plans to perform a surprise concert in Baltimore, following recent unrest in the city over the death of a man who was fatally injured in police custody.
A statement issued Tuesday night said the musical icon will perform Sunday at "Rally 4 Peace," a concert at the Royal Farms Arena in Baltimore.
JUST ANNOUNCED: Prince announces special RALLY 4 PEACE concert at the Arena THIS Sunday! Tix on sale tomorrow @ 5p pic.twitter.com/BJCPd4UiKf— Royal Farms Arena (@RoFoArena) May 6, 2015
The event is meant to be "a catalyst for pause and reflection" after the recent protests and riots over Freddie Gray's death that prompted Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan to bring in the National Guard and declare a state of emergency, according to the statement. Concertgoers have been asked to wear gray.
"As a symbolic message of shared humanity and love for one another, attendees are invited to wear something gray in tribute to all those recently lost in the violence," the statement said.
Prince will be joined by funk-rock group 3RDEYEGIRL and unnamed "superstar guests," Royal Farms Arena said in a tweet. He is also expected to debut a protest song at the concert, written last week, called "Baltimore," The Baltimore Sun reported.
Tickets will go on sale Wednesday at 5 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Baltimore-based youth charities.
Six police officers involved in Gray's arrest have been charged in his death.
Additional reporting by Mashable