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- Hannah Ford Welton (Drummer of 3rdEyeGirl)
The dynamic and powerful drummer who anchored Prince’s all-female rock band 3rdEyeGirl, bringing precision, energy, and swing to Prince’s final major musical project. Hannah Ford Born: 29 June 1990, Louisville, Kentucky a.k.a. Hannah Welton is the drummer, singer, and songwriter, she is best known for her work as the drummer in Prince’s band 3rdEyeGirl from 2012 to 2016. HER STORY In September 2012, She was recruited by Prince as a guest drummer for the Welcome 2 Chicago three-show residency after seeing videos of her performing online. Soon after, she appeared as lead drummer of the New Power Generation for Prince's performance of his song, Rock And Roll Love Affair on Jimmy Kimmel Live!'s show on 23 October 2012, as well as in the official music video.[citation needed] Asked by Prince to look for a female guitarist, Hannah, together with her husband Joshua, scouted online and found Donna Grantis via her videos on YouTube in late November. She auditioned one week later at Paisley Park Studios and was subsequently recruited in December 2012. Bassist Ida Nielsen had been performing with The NPG since October 2010, and the only member of the trio to have previous experience playing for Prince. In December 2012, 3rdeyegirl were formed and went on to tour with Prince on his Live Out Loud Tour in 2013, and his Hit and Run Tour from 2014 to 2015.[citation needed] In 2013, Welton was offered a spot in Prince's backing band 3rdeyegirl with guitarist Donna Grantis and bassist Ida Kristine Nielsen. Joshua Welton would also join[when?] the tours on percussion. He co-produced Prince's next two albums, Art Official Age and Hit n Run Phase One, and co-wrote most tracks on the latter.[citation needed] In 2013, along with Bellevue Suite, Welton released the album This Far From Sanity (2013). In 2014, 3rdeyegirl released their first and only album, Plectrumelectrum. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Hannah Ford Welton was a vital part of Prince’s final creative renaissance with 3rdEyeGirl. Along with Donna Grantis and Ida Nielsen, she helped Prince return to a live, band-oriented rock sound in his later years. The trio is widely regarded by fans as one of Prince’s most exciting late-period projects, and Hannah’s powerful, musical drumming was central to its success. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Hannah Ford Welton (Modern Drummer Magazine, The Current). Discography With Bellevue Suite This Far from Sanity (2013) With Prince and 3rdeyegirl Plectrumelectrum (2014 All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Donna Grantis (Guitarist of 3rdEyeGirl)
The virtuosic Canadian guitarist who became a core member of Prince’s powerful all-female rock band 3rdEyeGirl, bringing fiery lead playing and rock edge to Prince’s later career. Donna Grantis (born September 10, 1982) is a Canadian guitarist, composer, and educator. She is best known for her work with Prince and her technically impressive, expressive guitar style that blends rock, jazz, funk, and psychedelic elements. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered Donna in 2012 after she sent him a video of her playing. Impressed by her skill, he invited her to Paisley Park. She quickly became a key member of 3rdEyeGirl, Prince’s all-female power trio (alongside Ida Nielsen on bass and Hannah Ford on drums). Donna played on the album Plectrumelectrum (2014) and toured extensively with Prince from 2012 to 2015. Prince often highlighted her as one of his favorite guitarists and gave her significant solo space during live shows. KEY RELEASES With Prince & 3rdEyeGirl: Plectrumelectrum (2014) – Guitarist and co-writer on several tracks Art Official Age (2014) – Featured guitarist Live recordings and performances from the 2013–2015 tours Solo / Other Work: Donna Grantis (solo projects) Work with various jazz and rock artists STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Donna was known for her dynamic stage presence and blazing guitar solos during the 3rdEyeGirl era. Since Prince’s passing, she has continued her career as a solo artist, composer, and session musician. She has participated in several Prince tribute concerts and remains active in the Minneapolis music scene and beyond. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Donna Grantis was one of the most important instrumentalists in Prince’s final creative chapter. As part of 3rdEyeGirl, she helped Prince return to a raw, guitar-driven rock sound reminiscent of his early days while pushing it into new territory. She represents Prince’s commitment to elevating strong female musicians and giving them real creative space. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Donna Grantis (Guitar Player Magazine, The Current), official website. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Ida Nielsen (Bass Queen of the New Power Generation & 3rdEyeGirl)
The formidable Danish bassist who became a core member of Prince’s New Power Generation in the 2000s and later anchored his acclaimed all-female rock band 3rdEyeGirl. Ida Nielsen (born Ida Kristine Nielsen, June 27, 1977) is a Danish bassist, singer, and songwriter. Known for her thunderous slap bass, intricate grooves, and versatile musicality, she is widely regarded as one of the strongest bassists of her generation. PRINCE CONNECTION Ida first joined Prince’s band in 2010 as part of the New Power Generation. She quickly earned Prince’s trust and became a key musical voice during his later career. She performed extensively with Prince from 2010 until his passing in 2016, appearing on albums such as 20Ten, Plectrumelectrum, and Hit n Run (both volumes). She was a founding member of 3rdEyeGirl (Prince’s powerful all-female rock trio with Donna Grantis on guitar and Hannah Ford on drums), which released the album Plectrumelectrum in 2014 and toured internationally with a raw, high-energy rock sound. KEY RELEASES With Prince & The NPG / 3rdEyeGirl: 20Ten (2010) Plectrumelectrum (2014) – 3rdEyeGirl album Art Official Age (2014) Hit n Run Phase One & Two (2015) Solo Work: Several solo albums under her own name and as Ida Nielsen & The Funkbots STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Ida was one of the most visible members of Prince’s final bands, known for her energetic stage presence and powerful bass solos. Since Prince’s passing, she has continued to tour and record, often participating in Prince tribute projects and keeping his funk/rock spirit alive. She remains highly active as a session musician, solo artist, and educator. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Ida Nielsen brought fresh energy, technical excellence, and a modern edge to Prince’s later bands. As a key member of both the New Power Generation and 3rdEyeGirl, she helped Prince explore a heavier, rock-oriented sound in his final years. She is one of the most prominent female instrumentalists in Prince’s entire musical history and continues to be a beloved figure in the Prince community. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, official Ida Nielsen website, interviews (The Current, Bass Player Magazine). COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Nona Gaye (Soul Royalty & Prince Collaborator)
The daughter of legendary soul singer Marvin Gaye who became a talented vocalist, actress, and one of Prince’s key collaborators and romantic partners in the mid-1990s. Nona Gaye (born Nonnie Gaye, September 4, 1974) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress. She inherited her father’s soulful voice and entered the music industry in the early 1990s, later forming a significant personal and professional relationship with Prince. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince and Nona became romantically involved around 1993–1995. He signed her to a development deal and produced material for her. Nona contributed prominent background and lead vocals to several Prince projects, most notably on the Emancipation album (1996). She co-wrote and performed on tracks with Prince and the New Power Generation. Their relationship was passionate but relatively private compared to some of Prince’s other high-profile romances. KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE Emancipation (1996) – Nona features prominently on several tracks including “Joint 2 Joint,” “White Mansion,” and “Emancipation” Unreleased / vault material recorded during the mid-1990s Prince produced early recordings for her solo project (some tracks later appeared on her 2002 album Love for the Future) STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Nona performed live with Prince and the NPG during the mid-1990s. After their relationship ended, she focused more on acting, appearing in major films such as Ali (2001) as Vera Clay (Muhammad Ali’s wife), The Matrix Reloaded / Revolutions (as Zee), and Crash (2004). She released her solo album Love for the Future in 2002. She has occasionally returned to music and spoken respectfully about her time with Prince. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Nona Gaye brought a deep soul lineage (as Marvin Gaye’s daughter) into Prince’s world during a spiritually and creatively fertile period. Her rich, emotive voice complemented Prince’s sound perfectly, and their collaboration on Emancipation stands as one of the strongest examples of Prince working with a major soul vocalist in the 1990s. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Nona Gaye, Billboard. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Larry Graham (Funk Bass Legend & Prince Collaborator)
The revolutionary bassist, singer, and founder of Graham Central Station who became one of Prince’s closest friends and most respected collaborators in the later part of his career. Larry Graham (born August 14, 1945) is an American bassist, singer, and songwriter. He first rose to fame as the bassist for Sly & the Family Stone, where he pioneered the “slap bass” technique that transformed funk and pop music. He later formed his own group, Graham Central Station, in the 1970s. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince was a huge admirer of Larry Graham’s bass playing and spiritual approach to music. Their friendship deepened in the mid-1990s. Prince invited Graham to Paisley Park, and they collaborated extensively from 1997 onward. Graham became a major influence on Prince’s later musical direction, especially his embrace of Jehovah’s Witnesses faith (which both men shared). KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE Come (1994) – Graham appears on several tracks The Truth... (1997) – Significant collaboration Emancipation (1996) – Graham contributed Newpower Soul (1998) – With the NPG Graham Central Station’s Raise Up (2015) – Prince contributed Prince and Larry Graham performed together frequently in the late 1990s and 2000s, often with Graham Central Station opening for Prince or joining him onstage. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Larry Graham continues to tour with Graham Central Station and as a solo artist. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Sly & the Family Stone (1993). His relationship with Prince remained strong until Prince’s passing — Graham was one of the few artists Prince consistently referred to as a mentor and brother. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Larry Graham represents one of Prince’s deepest late-career musical and spiritual connections. He brought authentic old-school funk credibility and influenced Prince’s bass playing, band arrangements, and personal life. Their collaboration helped Prince reconnect with his funk roots while exploring faith-based themes in his music. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Larry Graham, Rolling Stone. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Fonky Bald Heads (Kirk Johnson’s Paisley Park Funk Project)
Fonky Bald Heads was a funk/hip-hop side project closely connected to Prince’s Paisley Park camp in the early 2000s GROUP OVERVIEW Name: Fonky Bald Heads (F.B.H.) Active: 2000 – 2002 Origin: Minneapolis, Minnesota Genres: Funk, Hip-Hop, R&B Label: Kitchen Records / NPG Music Club Key Members: Kirk Johnson (KAJ), Kip Blackshire, Mike Scott (Rev. Mike), DVS, K.A.T.O., Fish. PRINCE CONNECTION Several members were regular collaborators in Prince’s live band and studio sessions. Prince co-wrote “Rowdy Mac” with Kirk Johnson and wrote “Strike Up The Band” for the group (unused). He also offered guitar work on one track. DISCOGRAPHY NPG Music Club Releases (Various Artists) NPGMC First Edition (February 2001) NPGMC Second Edition (March 2001) Fonky Bald Heads tracks and/or members appeared on these early NPG Music Club compilations. Fonky Bald Heads (2000) – The Official Bootleg THE STORY The Official Bootleg was the group’s first release, an informal early collection distributed mainly through the NPG Music Club. CONTEXT & NOTES Raw, limited bootleg-style release that served as a precursor to their main album. Fonky Bald Heads (June 11, 2001) – The Self Titled Album THE STORY The Self Titled Album is the official debut studio album by Fonky Bald Heads. Prince contributed by co-writing “Rowdy Mac” with Kirk Johnson. “Sex In My Bones” was first released as an NPG Music Club download prior to the album. CONTEXT & NOTES Limited commercial distribution with no chart impact. The fiery artwork reflects the group’s raw funk energy. It remains a sought-after release for fans of the Paisley Park circle. RELATED MATERIAL For other relevant posts, see the tags at the foot of the page. All album artwork, photographs, labels, and original text excerpts remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Tony LeMans (Paisley Park Soul/Funk Singer)
The talented singer and songwriter signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records whose promising career was tragically cut short, known for his self-titled 1989 debut album. Tony LeMans (born Antony L. Fortier, July 14, 1963 – June 24, 1992) was an American R&B, funk, and pop singer/songwriter from California. He released one album on Paisley Park Records during the label’s expansion period in the late 1980s. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS PRINCE CONNECTION Prince personally signed Tony LeMans to Paisley Park Records. Although Prince did not produce or play on the album, his support and the Paisley Park imprint gave LeMans visibility. The self-titled album blended contemporary R&B, funk, and pop. Tony was part of the broader Paisley Park family during a time when Prince was signing a diverse roster of artists. KEY RELEASES Tony LeMans (self-titled) Released: October 10, 1989 Label: Paisley Park / Reprise / Warner Bros. Notable Tracks: “Higher Than High” “Cookie Crumbles” “Forever More” The album peaked at #58 on the Billboard R&B Albums chart. Guests on the project included influences from Sly Stone and George Clinton’s musical circles. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Tony performed live, including a New Year’s Eve show in San Francisco. His career was tragically cut short when he died in a motorcycle accident in Malibu, California, on June 24, 1992 — the day before he was scheduled to marry Deborah Matthews (sister of Vanity). WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Tony LeMans represents one of the promising but lesser-known signings to Paisley Park Records during its most active period. His album is a solid example of the label’s late-’80s R&B direction. His story is often remembered with sadness by Prince fans due to his early death and close connection to the Paisley Park family (including his planned marriage to Vanity’s sister). SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, Last.fm, Moving the River blog. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Taja Sevelle (Paisley Park’s Soulful Voice)
The Minneapolis-born singer and one of the earliest artists signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records, best known for her 1987 self-titled debut album and the hit single “Love Is Contagious.” Taja Sevelle (born Nancy Richardson, January 7, 1962) is an American singer, songwriter, and activist. She gained prominence in the late 1980s as a solo artist on Paisley Park Records, blending R&B, pop, and soul with a smooth, emotive vocal style. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born and raised in Minneapolis, Taja performed in several local bands before being discovered. She appeared as an extra in Prince’s film Purple Rain (1984) and contributed background vocals to Prince & The Revolution’s Around the World in a Day (1985) on the track “The Ladder.” PRINCE CONNECTION Prince signed Taja to a long-term recording contract with Paisley Park Records. Her self-titled debut album was released on September 19, 1987. Prince wrote and produced two tracks for the album: “Wouldn’t You Love to Love Me?” and “If I Could Get Your Attention.” He also supported her career during the label’s early years. Taja has spoken warmly about her experiences with Prince, describing him as both a mentor and a friend. KEY RELEASES Taja Sevelle (1987) – Paisley Park Records Notable Tracks: “Love Is Contagious” – Her biggest hit (Top 10 in the UK) “Wouldn’t You Love to Love Me?” (Prince-penned) She later released albums on other labels, including Fountains Free (1991) and Toys of Vanity (1997), collaborating with Burt Bacharach, Nile Rodgers, and others. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER After her Paisley Park period, Taja continued her music career while shifting focus toward activism. In 2005, she founded the nonprofit organization Urban Farming, which promotes urban agriculture and food security worldwide. She remains active in music, writing, and humanitarian work. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Taja Sevelle was among the first wave of artists signed to Paisley Park Records and represented Prince’s vision of developing strong, independent female voices on his label. Her debut album stands as one of the stronger early Paisley Park releases, and “Love Is Contagious” remains a beloved deep-cut favorite among Prince fans. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, PRN Alumni Foundation, Taja Sevelle official site, Discogs. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Good Question (Paisley Park R&B/Dance Duo)
The Philadelphia-based sibling duo signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records in 1988, best known for their dance hit “Got a New Love” and as one of the label’s pop/R&B acts during the late 1980s. Good Question was an R&B and dance music vocal duo from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, consisting of brothers Sean Douglas and Marc Douglas. They released one self-titled album on Paisley Park Records in 1988, blending contemporary R&B, dance-pop, and electro-funk. PRINCE CONNECTION Good Question was signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records label in 1988. While Prince did not write or produce any tracks on their album (and had minimal direct involvement), the project was released under his label during a time when Paisley Park was expanding its roster beyond the core Minneapolis Sound. Prince was photographed wearing a Good Question promotional T-shirt, showing at least some personal support for the act. The duo’s sound fit into the label’s broader dance/R&B direction in the late ’80s. KEY RELEASES Good Question (self-titled album) Released: 1988 Label: Paisley Park Records / Warner Bros. Notable Tracks: “Got a New Love” – Their biggest hit; reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart (Clivillés & Cole remix) “Listen to Your Heart” – Follow-up single The album mixed upbeat dance tracks with smoother R&B ballads but achieved only modest commercial success. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Good Question performed in the late 1980s to promote the album. After the project, the brothers largely stepped away from the spotlight. They later regrouped and have performed in the Dallas/Fort Worth area as a band for hire. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Good Question represents Prince’s efforts to diversify the Paisley Park Records roster with mainstream dance and R&B acts in the late 1980s. Although not a major commercial success, their #1 Dance hit “Got a New Love” gave the label some visibility in the club scene. They remain a cult favorite among fans of 1980s Paisley Park releases. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, Prince.org forums, YouTube album archives. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Chaka Khan (The Queen of Funk & Prince Collaborator)
The legendary “Queen of Funk” whose massive hit “I Feel for You” brought Prince’s songwriting to the mainstream, followed by a deep creative and personal relationship that culminated in a full album release on NPG Records in 1998. OVERVIEW Chaka Khan (born Yvette Marie Stevens, March 23, 1953) is an American singer, songwriter, and musician widely regarded as one of the greatest R&B and funk vocalists of all time. She first rose to fame as the lead singer of Rufus in the 1970s before enjoying a highly successful solo career. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince wrote “I Feel for You” in 1979. Chaka’s 1984 cover (featuring Prince on harmonica and backing vocals) became a global smash hit. Their collaboration deepened in the late 1980s and 1990s. In 1998, Prince invited Chaka to record a full project together. The result was Come 2 My House, released on NPG Records (July 21, 1998). Prince co-produced the majority of the album, played instruments throughout, and co-wrote ten of the thirteen tracks. Chaka co-wrote and co-produced much of the material as well. Chaka joined Prince and Larry Graham on the 1998 Newpower Soul Festival Tour (also referred to as part of the Jam of the Year Tour), performing as a support act and special guest. They performed together on stage, including renditions of “I Feel for You” and “Sweet Thing.” KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE “I Feel for You” (1984) – Prince-written smash hit CK (1988) – Prince produced/wrote several tracks Come 2 My House (1998) – Full album on NPG Records, co-produced with Prince Various live performances (1998 tour) STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Chaka Khan has maintained an iconic career spanning five decades, with 10 Grammy Awards. She continues to tour and record. After Prince’s passing, she has paid frequent and heartfelt tribute to him, referring to him affectionately as her “little brother.” WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Chaka Khan was one of the few established superstars Prince worked with extensively. Their 1998 album Come 2 My House on NPG Records stands as a major late-’90s collaboration, and her appearances on the 1998 tour helped promote Prince’s independent label vision. She remains one of the most important and respected voices connected to Prince’s legacy. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, official Chaka Khan statements, Goldies Parade. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Martika (Prince’s 1990s Pop Protégée)
The charismatic singer and actress who scored major pop success in the late 1980s before entering Prince’s creative world, resulting in a strong artistic collaboration on her sophomore album. OVERVIEW Martika (born Marta Marrero, May 18, 1969) is an American singer, songwriter, and actress of Cuban descent. She rose to fame as a teen pop star with her 1989 self-titled debut album before working closely with Prince in the early 1990s. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Whittier, California, Martika began performing as a child, appearing on the TV show Kids Incorporated alongside future stars like Jennifer Love Hewitt and Mario Lopez. Her 1989 debut album spawned the massive worldwide hit “Toy Soldiers” (#1 in the US). PRINCE CONNECTION In 1990–1991, Prince took Martika under his wing. He wrote, produced, and played on several tracks for her second album Martika’s Kitchen. Most notably, he wrote and produced the single “Love… Thy Will Be Done”, which became a major international hit and is widely regarded as one of her best performances. Prince also contributed the title track and other songs. Martika visited Paisley Park, recorded with members of the New Power Generation, and the two had a brief romantic relationship. Their collaboration blended her pop style with Prince’s funk and spiritual sensibilities. KEY RELEASES Martika (1989) – Her breakthrough debut Martika’s Kitchen (1991) – Prince-produced tracks include: “Love… Thy Will Be Done” (major hit) “Martika’s Kitchen” “A Magical Place” and others STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Martika toured in support of both albums. After the early 1990s, she stepped back from mainstream music but returned occasionally, including a successful Spanish-language album (Colo de Niño, 2003) and various acting roles. She has spoken warmly about her time with Prince and the creative freedom he gave her. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Martika represents Prince’s continued interest in developing mainstream pop artists during the early New Power Generation era. “Love… Thy Will Be Done” is one of the strongest and most emotionally resonant songs Prince wrote for another artist in the 1990s, showcasing his ability to craft sophisticated, spiritual pop material. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Billboard, interviews with Martika, Discogs. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.
- Apollonia 6 (Prince’s Second All-Female Trio)
The glamorous, provocative female trio that succeeded Vanity 6, created and produced by Prince, best known for their sultry 1984 album and the cult-classic song “Sex Shooter.” OVERVIEW Apollonia 6 was a three-member R&B/pop group formed by Prince in 1983. They were the direct follow-up to Vanity 6 and continued Prince’s vision of bold, sensual, and stylish female groups within the Minneapolis Sound. MEMBERS Apollonia (Patricia Kotero) – Lead vocals Brenda Bennett – Vocals (carried over from Vanity 6) Susan Moonsie – Vocals (also carried over from Vanity 6) PRINCE CONNECTION After Vanity left the group (and Prince) in 1983 to pursue solo work, Prince chose actress/model Patricia Kotero as her replacement and renamed the group Apollonia 6. He wrote and produced their entire album, played most instruments, and guided their image. Apollonia also starred as the lead actress in Prince’s 1984 film Purple Rain, where the group performed “Sex Shooter.” She was Prince’s girlfriend during this period. KEY RELEASES Apollonia 6 (self-titled album) Released: October 1, 1984 Label: Warner Bros. / Paisley Park Notable Tracks: “Sex Shooter” – Their biggest hit and signature song (featured prominently in Purple Rain) “Blue Limousine” “Ooo She Shook Me” “Take Me with U” (a duet with Prince on the Purple Rain soundtrack, though credited to Apollonia 6 in some contexts) The album had a heavier funk and synth-pop sound than Vanity 6, with Prince’s signature production style. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Apollonia 6 opened for Prince on the Purple Rain tour in 1984–85. The group was short-lived and disbanded in 1985 after the tour. Apollonia went on to release a solo album (Apollonia, 1988), act in films and television (Falcon Crest, Black Magic Woman), and later became a businesswoman and motivational speaker. Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsie stepped back from the spotlight but have occasionally reunited for Prince tribute events. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Apollonia 6 was a key part of Prince’s mid-1980s purple empire. They added visual glamour and feminine energy to the Purple Rain era and helped solidify Prince’s brand of sexually charged, high-concept pop-funk. “Sex Shooter” remains one of the most memorable songs and performances from the Purple Rain project. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Apollonia Kotero, Brenda Bennett, and Susan Moonsie. COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed remain the property of their respective copyright holders. This entry is a transformative, non-commercial archival summary created for historical documentation and educational reference.















