Prince (July 12, 1994) - Star Gazette Elmira, New York.

This short syndicated item reports on Prince’s interview in the July 1994 issue of Vibe magazine, where he publicly addressed his decision to change his name to the unpronounceable symbol. Identified as TAFKAP , he explained that the change followed “the advice of my spirit” and reflected a desire to move beyond his old persona and explore new musical directions.

Publication: Star‑Gazette 

(Elmira, New York)

Date: Tuesday, July 12 1994 Country: United States Section / Pages: Entertainment News Title: Former Prince Explains Name

Prince described his spiritual awakening and identity search, saying he would “wake up nights thinking ‘Who am I?’ ” and wanted to “close the door on Prince the Artist.”

The article also notes his clarification that the symbol combines male and female elements, representing unity and transformation. When asked how to pronounce it, he replied simply: “You don’t.”

CONTEXT AND NOTES  

This brief report captures the essence of Prince’s mid‑1994 identity shift — a moment of artistic liberation and personal redefinition. His remarks in Vibe were among the first to frame the name change as a spiritual act rather than a publicity move, marking the beginning of his Symbol‑era philosophy

Source: Star‑Gazette, Elmira, New York, July 12 1994.

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