Prince (June 6, 1981) “Half a million dirty minds can’t be wrong about this man” – Cover Story & Interview – NME (UK)

Iconic 1981 NME cover story on Prince during his Dirty Mind era, coinciding with his first-ever European tour, including the legendary show at London’s Lyceum on June 2.

PUBLICATION:

Date: June 6, 1981

Country: United Kingdom

Section / Pages: Cover + Multi-Page Feature

Title: Half a million dirty minds can’t be wrong about this man

THE STORY

New Musical Express puts Prince on the cover with a striking portrait as he promotes his groundbreaking Dirty Mind album. The in-depth feature by Chris Salewicz explores Prince’s provocative image, sexual themes in his music, songwriting process, and rapid rise. The timing of the article aligns with Prince’s historic first European tour, which included a highly praised performance at the Lyceum Ballroom in London on June 2, 1981.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This major cover story captured Prince at a pivotal moment — transitioning from underground cult hero to international sensation. The Dirty Mind tour marked his first time playing in Europe, and the UK press was buzzing with a mix of fascination and shock at his explicit, androgynous style. The article perfectly encapsulates the “love him or hate him” reaction Prince provoked in 1981.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Era: Dirty Mind / First European Tour (1981)

Tone: Provocative, detailed, slightly scandalized

Photography: Powerful close-up cover portrait of Prince + additional photos inside

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

Classic NME cover with bold red logo and Prince in a bandana and open jacket. Interior spreads include the main interview with large photos and text.

RELATED MATERIAL

• Prince (June 6, 1981) “Digging the dirt with Prince” – Cover Story – Black Echoes (UK)

• Prince (June 6, 1981) “Some day your Prince will come” – Feature – Melody Maker (UK)

• Prince (1980) Dirty Mind Album

• Prince (June 2, 1981) Lyceum Ballroom, London (First UK Show)

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