Prince “Welcome 2 America” Tour Kicks Off In December

Purple Rain meets Red December as music icon prepares to head out on a new concert just in time for the holidays!

Prince has unveiled plans for “a series of events” he’s dubbed “The Welcome 2 America Tour.” The “Do Me Baby” crooner is expected to perform with his legendary band, The New Power Generation, and serve as Master of Ceremonies.

“We’re here today in New York to announce a series of events that will begin on a purple day in December in the year 2010,” Prince said during a press conference held at Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater Thursday.

The shows will feature a full roster of funk, R&B and jazz artists, including Maceo Parker, Janelle Monae, Mint Condition, Esperanza Spalding, Lalah Hathaway, Sheila E, Cassandra Wilson, and Graham Central Station.

“Welcome 2 America’s best described as ‘what we’ve all been waiting for.’ I will serve as master of ceremonies for multiple nights of entertainment that will feature some of the best artists this country has to offer,” the pint-sized pop legend told potential concertgoers.

“Bring friends, bring your children, and bring foot spray because it’s gonna be funky,” Prince promised with a devilish grin.

An accomplished guitarist, Prince plans to auction off a gold-plated guitar, which was displayed adjacent to the singer during today’s presser. All proceeds from the sale of the instrument will benefit the Harlem Children Zone, a non-profit organization featured prominently in the education reform documentary Waiting for Superman.

Anyone looking forward to Prince’s tour?