Prince and Toronto had a special connection that went beyond music. After marrying Canadian businesswoman Manuela Testolini, he moved to the city and made it his home. Even after their divorce, he never lost his affection for Toronto. It was a place where he found peace and a sense of belonging during an important chapter in his life.
Toronto gave him the balance he was looking for. Prince found the two things he valued most in the city: privacy and creativity. He lived quietly in the Bridle Path neighborhood, away from the spotlight, but the city’s mix of culture and energy still inspired him. His time there showed how much Toronto meant to him.
Prince had special connection to Toronto
People who remember those years often share stories about how much he seemed to love Toronto. Comments on the first video reflect that feeling. Some say it was incredible to know that one of the world’s biggest stars had chosen their city, while others talk about how down to earth he seemed while living there. To many, his presence felt like a gift.
The second video shows why his connection with Toronto made so much sense. His performance in Canada was full of energy, and the crowd gave it right back to him. He thrived in those settings, often playing smaller and more intimate shows that became legendary for those lucky enough to attend. These “secret” or surprise performances, sometimes announced at the last minute, made his time in Toronto feel even more personal.
Prince plays intimate show in Toronto in 1997
Those nights showed the warmth between Prince and Toronto. The audiences embraced him with love, and he responded with the kind of passion only he could bring. It is easy to understand why he carried that affection for the city, even after he no longer lived there.
Listening to his songs on YouTube and Spotify is a reminder of the joy he shared with Toronto and with the world. His spirit is still felt every time the music plays.