Prince (June 2014) “A Night With Prince” Essence Magazine Cover & Feature

The June 2014 cover of Essence Magazine features Prince in a striking portrait with the headline “A NIGHT WITH PRINCE: WHAT REALLY HAPPENS AT THE AFTER-PARTY”, accompanied by an in-depth “Prince After Dark” feature.

Publication: Essence

Date: June 2014

Country: United States

Location: New York

Section: Cover + Interior Feature

THE STORY

In a rare and intimate interview, Prince pulls back the purple curtain on his legacy, mentoring, creativity, and the magic of live performance. Photographed by Randee St. Nicholas, the multi-page spread includes stunning portraits, backstage moments at the Hollywood Palladium, and insights into his process, band, and enduring genius.

The feature captures Prince during an exclusive ESSENCE photo shoot and interview.

CONTEXT AND NOTES 

By 2014 Prince remained an enigmatic icon who rarely granted in-depth interviews. This Essence feature offers a rare glimpse into his world — his perfectionism, spirituality, musical innovation, and connection with his band. It highlights his timeless creativity and influence across generations.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: In-depth cover story and photo shoot

Era: 2014 (Prince’s later career renaissance)

Tone: Intimate, reverent, vibrant

Photography: Striking colour portraits and live/action shots by Randee St. Nicholas

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Iconic cover with Prince in afro, sunglasses, fringed vest, and custom guitar

• Bold headline “PRINCE AFTER DARK”

• Multiple studio portraits in varied outfits (maroon velvet, black suit, white vest)

• Backstage and performance images from the Hollywood Palladium

• Pull quotes and deep interview excerpts

  
  

RELATED MATERIAL

 This Essence cover story and photo feature stands as one of the most revealing Prince interviews of the 2010s. For other relevant posts, see the tags at the foot of the page.

All magazine scans, photographs and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.