Andre Cymone (July 16, 1985) – "The Dance Electric" b/w "Red Light" 7" Single: USA

The Dance Electric was released on Jul 16, 1985 as the first single from André Cymone’s third album A.C., arriving four weeks before the album itself.

The track was written and produced by Prince and André Cymone, marking one of their final collaborations of the 1980s. The single contained two different edits of the song, while the B‑side Red Light was produced solely by Cymone and did not involve Prince.

BACKGROUND

The Dance Electric originated from a 1984 session where Prince offered the song to Cymone, encouraging him to record it for his upcoming album. The single was issued in the USA, UK, and Europe, becoming Cymone’s biggest chart success to date.

Despite its strong club performance, it did not cross over to the Pop Chart.

RECORDING

Produced jointly by Prince and André Cymone, the track reflects Prince’s mid‑1980s Minneapolis Sound aesthetic — sharp synths, layered vocals, and driving rhythm guitar.

Red Light, the B‑side, was recorded separately under Cymone’s own production.

STYLE & THEMES

The Dance Electric combines funk, rock, and electronic elements, with lyrics urging spiritual awakening and collective energy.

Its pulsating rhythm and vocal layering echo Prince’s Purple Rain‑era production style, while Cymone’s delivery adds a distinct edge.

TRACK‑BY‑TRACK NOTES

• The Dance Electric — Edited Version (3:59); Long Version (5:31); Produced by Prince and André Cymone.

• Red Light — Edited Version; Produced by André Cymone.

RELEASE HISTORY

• Jul 16, 1985 — US release on Columbia Records.

• Released four weeks before the album A.C. • Formats included 7" single, 7" promo, and 12" single.

CHART PERFORMANCE

• US Billboard Black Chart — No. 10

• US Billboard Hot Dance/Disco – Club Play Chart — No. 8

• Did not enter the Pop Chart.

PERSONNEL

André Cymone — vocals, bass, production

Prince — production, arrangement Wayne Edwards — executive producer Additional session musicians (uncredited)

PRODUCTION

Produced by Prince and André Cymone Executive Producer: Wayne Edwards Label: Columbia Records / CBS Inc. Catalogue Numbers: 38‑05435 (7"), 44‑05249 (12")

(USA VARIANTS)

Artist: André Cymone

Title: The Dance Electric

Label: Columbia Records / CBS Inc. Country: USA Catalogue: 38‑05435 (7") / 44‑05249 (12") Date: Jul 16, 1985

Format: 7" Single / 12" Single

Tracklist (7"):

A — The Dance Electric (Edited Version) (3:59)

B — Red Light (Edited Version)

Tracklist (7" Promo):

A — The Dance Electric (Edited Version) (3:59)

B — The Dance Electric (Edited Version) (3:59)

Tracklist (12"):

A — The Dance Electric (Long Version) (5:31)

B1 — The Dance Electric (Edited Version) (3:59)

B2 — Red Light (Edited Version)

Notes: Produced by Prince and André Cymone.

B‑side produced by André Cymone. Taken from the Columbia LP A.C. (FC 40037).