White House won't confirm Prince performed for Obama

Published June 15, 2015 4:50pm EDT | Updated December 20, 2015 3:04pm EST

Adam Goodman and Ellen Ratner on whether officials should reveal details on event

Prince performed some of his greatest hits at a weekend White House party for President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle.

But although guests put details on social media, White House spokesman Josh Earnest is refusing to confirm the "Purple Rain" singer's attendance.

Earnest says he has no details about the private event. A reported 500 lobbyists, corporate executives, celebrities and other guests attended.

Earnest says the Obamas threw the party "on their own dime." He did not say how much it cost or what they would pay for.

The Rev. Al Sharpton tweeted Sunday after leaving the White House that it was "awesome" to see Prince and Stevie Wonder together on the keyboards.

Prince performed in town Saturday at the Warner Theater.