Mike Scott (NPG Guitarist)

The soulful and versatile guitarist who served as a key member of Prince’s New Power Generation from 1996 to 2001 and again in the mid-2000s, known for his expressive playing and strong stage presence.

Mike Scott is an American guitarist, songwriter, and session musician originally from Washington, D.C. He is highly regarded for his melodic, funky, and dynamic guitar style that blends rock, R&B, and funk influences.

KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE

• Emancipation (1996)

• Newpower Soul (1998)

• Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999)

• The Vault: Old Friends 4 Sale (1999)

• Musicology (2004)

• 3121 (2006)

PRINCE CONNECTION Mike Scott was recruited by Prince in 1996 after working extensively with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis in Minneapolis. He became a core guitarist for the New Power Generation during the Emancipation era and remained with Prince through the late 1990s and into the early 2000s. He returned periodically between 2004 and 2006 for the Musicology and 3121 tours. Prince valued his musicality, and Mike contributed to both studio recordings and high-energy live performances.

STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER 

Mike Scott toured extensively with Prince and the NPG, delivering memorable guitar solos and tight ensemble playing. After his time with Prince, he has worked as a session guitarist for major artists (including Justin Timberlake and others) and continues to perform and record. He remains an active participant in Prince tribute events and celebrations.

WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE 

Mike Scott brought a fresh, melodic guitar voice to the New Power Generation during one of its most prolific periods. He helped maintain the band’s high level of musicianship during the post-Diamonds and Pearls era and contributed to Prince’s evolution into a more mature, genre-blending sound in the late 1990s and 2000s.

SOURCES Prince Vault, Discogs, Premier Guitar, Guitar Player Magazine, interviews with Mike Scott.

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