Controversy Single: 1993

A Hits-Era Glam Slam Extension

Released as a CD/7"/cassette single in the UK on December 6, 1993, on Warner Bros. Records (catalogue: W0215CD / W0215), Prince’s “Controversy” was reissued to promote The Hits 1, The Hits 2, and The Hits/The B-Sides. This exclusive UK release — three months after the albums — featured the 1981 title track edit alongside lesser-known gems not on the Hits collections (including “The Future (Remix)”, “Glam Slam”, “D.M.S.R.”, and “New Power Generation Pt. II”). Peaked at No. 5 on the UK Gallup Singles Chart. Issued in two CD variants, 7" picture disc, cassette, and promo 12". A clever Hits companion piece.

Single Overview

Release Details

Label: Warner Bros. Records.

Formats: CD single (two editions), 7" (standard / picture disc), cassette, 12" promo.

Full Track Listing by Format

7" Single / Cassette (W0215 / W0215C)

Side A

Controversy (Edit) (3:35)

Side B

The Future (Remix) (6:25)

CD 1 (W0215CD1)

1. Controversy (Edit) (3:35)

2. The Future (Remix) (6:25)

3. Glam Slam (5:04)

4. D.M.S.R. (8:15)

CD 2 (W0215CD2)

1. Controversy (Edit) (3:35)

2. Anotherloverholenyohead (3:58)

3. Paisley Park (4:41)

4. New Power Generation (Part II) (2:57)

12" Promo (SAM 1278)

Side A

Controversy (Edit) (3:35)

Side B

D.M.S.R. (8:15)

Reissues & Global Variants

UK-only commercial release. No international equivalents.

Production and Context

Original “Controversy” produced by Prince (1981). Remixes and additional production from respective eras. B-sides curated as Hits extension.

Official Singles Chart Data

Peak position: 5

Legacy and Collectibility

“Controversy” 1993 reissue is the definitive UK Hits-era companion — packed with deep cuts. Original CDs fetch £10–£30, 7" picture disc £20–£50 on eBay/Discogs. Verify catalogue W0215CD. This single is a must-have for ’90s Prince collectors.

Do you have the 1993 Controversy reissue in your collection? Is the future still bright? Share in the comments!

Sources

Information is drawn from my personal knowledge and supplemented by web sources, including Prince Vault, Discogs, 45cat, AllMusic, Rate Your Music, Wikipedia, BBC Official Charts Company, Billboard Chart History and YouTube

Whilst every effort is made to provide accurate information, mistakes do happen. Simply leave a comment and the post will be updated. Thank you.