Prince (July 2021) “Five Years Gone: Prince” – Special Tribute Issue – Guitar Player Magazine (US)

Major 2021 tribute issue of Guitar Player magazine commemorating the 5th anniversary of Prince’s passing, with an in-depth exploration of his guitar secrets, studio techniques, road stories, and lasting influence as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.

PUBLICATION: Date: July 2021 Country: United States

Section / Pages: Special Tribute Issue (Cover + Multiple Features)

Title: FIVE YEARS GONE: PRINCE

THE STORY

Guitar Player dedicated its July 2021 issue to Prince, featuring a striking cover image of him in a shimmering green-and-gold outfit playing guitar. The extensive tribute includes exclusive interviews with former band members and collaborators, detailed analysis of his guitar rigs and playing style, studio anecdotes, and reflections on his innovative approach to the instrument. Articles such as “Royal Intrigue” and pieces on his home rigs and live performances celebrate Prince’s unparalleled guitar mastery.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

Released exactly five years after Prince’s death on April 21, 2016, this special issue stands as one of the most comprehensive guitar-focused tributes to Prince. It highlights not only his flashy, virtuosic playing but also his deep musicality, innovation, and the mystery surrounding his private creative process.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Era: Posthumous Tribute (2021) Tone: Reverent, technical, celebratory Photography: Iconic cover shot of Prince in full stage regalia + multiple interior live and studio images Key

“His Guitar Secrets Revealed”

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Bold Guitar Player cover with Prince in a sparkling green outfit

• Interior spreads including “Royal Intrigue,” interviews, gear discussions, and tributes from fellow musicians

RELATED MATERIAL

• Prince (2021) Welcome 2 America Album Release

• Prince (July 18, 2021) “Prince Is Back” – The Sunday Times Culture Cover Story

• Prince (2016–2021) Posthumous Releases & Tributes

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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.