Prince (September 11, 1987) to Perform at MTV Awards” Feature – Stamford Advocate
This Stamford Advocate article from September 11 1987 announces Prince’s addition to the lineup for The 1987 MTV Video Music Awards, where his live performance at the Universal Amphitheater in Los Angeles would mark the debut of his new band before a U.S. television audience.
Publication: Stamford Advocate Date: September 11 1987 Country: United States
Prince’s appearance was described as a “special presence” added to the all‑star talent lineup for the MTV Awards broadcast. His performance, aired live via satellite at 9 p.m., introduced his new band to American viewers.
The article lists fellow performers including Bryan Adams, The Bangles, The Cars, Crowded House, Cyndi Lauper, Los Lobos, Run DMC with Aerosmith, Whitesnake, David Bowie, Bon Jovi, Whitney Houston, and Madonna.
Eighteen awards were presented for excellence in video music, including the Video Vanguard and Viewer’s Choice categories. Viewers could vote for “Best Video of the Year” by calling special 900 numbers for nominees such as Peter Gabriel – “Sledgehammer”, Genesis – “Land of Confusion”, Paul Simon – “Boy in the Bubble”, U2 – “With or Without You”, and Steve Winwood – “Higher Love.”
The presenters included Sandra Bernhard, Lisa Bonet, Cher, Bobcat Goldthwait, Steve Guttenberg, Robin Leach, Huey Lewis, Kenny Loggins, Howie Mandel, Eddie Money, Robbie Nevil, Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie from Fleetwood Mac, Poison, Judy Tenuta, Tina Turner, and Vanna White.
CONTEXT AND NOTES
Prince’s 1987 MTV performance came during the Sign O’ the Times era, a period of artistic reinvention and live experimentation.
The event showcased his new band to a national audience and placed him alongside the decade’s most prominent pop and rock acts, reinforcing his position as one of MTV’s defining performers
FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS
Event: 1987 MTV Video Music Awards Performance
Era: 1987 – Sign O’ the Times / New Band Debut
Tone: Excited and informative Photography: Text‑only article (no photo in this edition)
WHAT THE CLIPPING SHOWS
Announcement of Prince’s MTV Awards performance
Debut of his new band before a U.S. television audience
Full list of performers, nominees, and presenters for the broadcast
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