Prince’s groundbreaking backing band that helped define the Minneapolis Sound and elevated his music to global superstardom, officially taking shape with the 1999 album. OVERVIEW The Revolution was Prince’s primary live and studio band from 1980 to 1986. Known for their tight musicianship, diverse influences (funk, rock, pop, R&B, new wave), and flamboyant style, they were central to Prince’s most commercially and artistically successful period. FORMATION & LINEUPS Early / 19

Coverage of local music awards notes that Prince, after a steamy three-song performance, did not accept his awards in person. He sent Wendy Melvoin (guitarist in his band) to pick up the trophy. She quipped, “He screams. I don’t. That’s why I’m accepting.” Publication: Minneapolis Star and Tribune Date: Tuesday, May 22, 1984 Country: United States Section: Awards coverage (continued from page 1C) THE STORY The article highlights Prince’s rising prominence with his “distinctiv

One final note: Wendy Melvoin, the new guitarist in Prince’s band, is the daughter of Mike Melvoin, president of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (which bestows the Grammys). Publication: Minneapolis Star and Tribune Date: Sunday, March 11, 1984 Country: United States Section: Entertainment / Prince Update column “Wendy Melvoin, the new guitarist in Prince’s band, is the daughter of Mike Melvoin, president of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Scien

Purple Rain has been edited down to under two hours, but Prince still needs to film one remaining scene with his on-screen love interest, Apollonia (née Patty Kotero). Additional notes on Apollonia’s background, a song sent to Sheena Easton, Wendy Melvoin’s connection to Prince’s band, and Prince and the Revolution topping the Village Voice critics’ poll. Publication: Minneapolis Star and Tribune Date: Sunday, March 11, 1984 Country: United States Section: Entertainment / Pri