Bobby Z is finally heading home after heart attack

Two weeks after being hospitalized for a heart attack, Twin Cities producer/drummer Bobby Z is heading home today. After going to ER on Jan. 30 and having two stents inserted in blocked arteries, Z was unable to have a third artery repaired because his heart wasn't strong enough. So he remained hospitalized. This week, he moved to a different hospital where the third stent was inserted. "Feeling better," Z said in an e-mail to me today. "Thanks to all for the love and support." That would include Prince, Z's former boss who had not only called the hospital and talked to Z's wife but also dedicated "Nothing Compares 2 U" to his former drummer on Monday in concert at New York's Madison Square Garden. Best known as Prince's first drummer (1978-86), Z has since worked as a producer and label executive, involved with the Suburbs, Boy George, Wendy & Lisa, G.B. Leighton, Sounds of Blackness, Shannon Curfman and, most recently, Alexander O'Neal, among others. Z also has been active as a regional officer in the Recording Academy, which operates the Grammys. He said he is thankful to be at home to watch the Grammys on Sunday.