Soul superstar Prince has been denied permission to perform a free concert under the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France next month because the proposed show clashes with the country's Bastille Day celebrations.

The Purple Rain icon planned to bring the heart of the city to a standstill on 14 July by staging a charity gig under the tourist attraction to mark the national holiday, but his request has been rejected by Mayor Bertrand Delanoe as locals traditionally celebrate with a major fireworks display at the venue.

A representative for the Mayor says, "There was a request from the producer of Prince in France to organise a concert on July 14. But our priority is the July 14 fireworks at the Eiffel Tower, which is not compatible with this project.

"We are ready to study another concert date, discussions are under way."

Prince and his team are now hoping to hold the gig, to raise awareness about the fight against HIV and AIDS, in September. (MT/WNWCAG/KL)