Kevin D. Kinsey

Never one to sit still for too long, Prince, 52, announced a new series of star-studded live shows at a press conference yesterday at NYC’s famed Apollo Theater in Harlem.

Adorned in gold-rimmed aviator sunglasses and a black turtleneck with his 21 Nights In London DVD flashing on a projector behind him, the legendary pop wunderkind announced the shows, titled “Welcome 2 America,” which will feature guest stars including his “favorite new artist” Janelle Monae, the legendary Maceo Parker, Mint Condition, Esperanza Spalding and famed funk outfit Graham Central Station.

Though no specific dates, cities or venues were announced, the shows are scheduled to kick off in December and will feature Prince playing a gold-plated Fender guitar that will be auctioned off at the end of the live run with proceeds beneftting the Harlem Children’s Zone.

“The nights of entertainment will feature some of the best artists this country has to offer,” Prince promised reporters. “They know what time it is. So come early and come often, because every time we play it’s always something new. No two shows will be the same. I have a lot of hits. Bring your friends, bring your children, bring your own foot spray — it’s going to be funky!”

By Ian Drew for UsMagazine.com.