Prince (November 21, 1982) “This trio of acts with sexual verve cranks out yet a new kind of funk” – The Philadelphia Inquirer

A major preview feature in The Philadelphia Inquirer by Ken Tucker examining Prince’s 1999 album and upcoming concert at the University City Center with The Time and Vanity 6, praising the sexually charged, danceable funk while analyzing the provocative themes and live energy of the triple bill.

Publication: The Philadelphia Inquirer Date: Sunday, November 21, 1982 Country: United States

Section / Pages: Calendar / Pop Music Title: This trio of acts with sexual verve cranks out yet a new kind of funk

THE STORY

Ken Tucker reviews Prince’s 1999 as a bold, ambitious double album continuing his evolution from Dirty Mind, highlighting the apocalyptic tone, explicit sexuality, and dance grooves. The piece also covers The Time’s stylish funk and Vanity 6’s debut, noting the shared Warner Bros. connection and provocative imagery across all three acts. It previews the high-energy show and discusses Prince’s one-man-band approach and cultural impact.

CONTEXT AND NOTES

This in-depth preview ran days before the November 24, 1982 concert at the University City Center during the 1999 Tour. It captures the excitement and controversy surrounding Prince’s breakthrough era, with The Time and Vanity 6 as key supporting acts that helped define the Purple Rain sound and aesthetic.

FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Event: Concert preview + album analysis (University City Center show)

Era: 1999 Tour (1982)

Tone: Enthusiastic, analytical, and culturally engaged

Photography: Large photos of Prince and Vanity 6

Visual Motifs: Classic newspaper feature layout with bold headline and multiple images

WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS

• Strong local anticipation for the 1999 Tour triple bill in Philadelphia

• Critical appreciation for Prince’s musical innovation and provocative style

• Early recognition of the influential Prince/The Time/Vanity 6 package

RELATED MATERIAL

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