The sexy, provocative, and groundbreaking all-female trio created and molded by Prince, known for their bold image, dance-pop sound, and hits that helped expand the Minneapolis Sound into mainstream pop. OVERVIEW Vanity 6 was a female R&B/pop trio assembled by Prince in 1982. The group consisted of Vanity (Denise Matthews), Brenda Bennett, and Susan Moonsie. They were one of the first acts Prince developed as a mentor/producer, following the model he used with The Time. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Vanity (lead vocals) – Born Denise Katrina Matthews in Niagara Falls, Canada (1959). Former model and actress. Brenda Bennett – Born in Indiana, previously a singer with the band Haze. Susan Moonsie – Born in Minneapolis, childhood friend of Prince and former member of his early circle. Prince handpicked the members and shaped their glamorous, lingerie-inspired image. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered Vanity in 1981 and quickly formed the group. He wrote and produced nearly all their material (credited to Jamie Starr and The Starr Company). He also played most of the instruments on their recordings. The group was closely tied to Prince’s universe — they opened for him on tour, appeared in his films, and embodied his vision of bold, sensual femininity. Vanity was also Prince’s girlfriend for a period during this time. KEY RELEASES Vanity 6 (self-titled debut) Released: August 11, 1982 Label: Warner Bros. / Paisley Park (early association) Notable Tracks: “Nasty Girl” – Their biggest hit (peaked at #7 R&B) “He’s So Shy” “If a Girl Answers (Don’t Hang Up)” “Bite the Beat” The album blended synth-funk, pop, and new wave with Prince’s signature sound. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Vanity 6 toured as an opening act for Prince’s Controversy and 1999 tours, delivering energetic, provocative performances. In 1983, Vanity left the group (and Prince) to pursue a solo career and acting. She was replaced by Patricia “Apollonia” Kotero, and the group was renamed Apollonia 6. Vanity released two solo albums (Wild Animal and Skin on Skin) and acted in films like The Last Dragon. She later became a born-again Christian and distanced herself from her earlier image. Brenda and Susan remained active in music and film. Vanity passed away in 2016. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Vanity 6 was Prince’s first major female protégé group and helped him explore themes of sexuality, fantasy, and female empowerment through music. Their success paved the way for Apollonia 6 and influenced many of Prince’s later female collaborations. “Nasty Girl” remains a classic Minneapolis Sound anthem and a key example of Prince’s ability to create hits for his satellite acts. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsie, Vanity’s biography. 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.

The official continuation of Prince’s legendary 1990–2013 backing band, rebranded as the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band after the expiration of the NPG name license, continuing to honor Prince’s music while expanding into new creative territory. OVERVIEW The Minneapolis Sound All Star Band is a rotating collective of Prince’s longtime band members, primarily from the New Power Generation (NPG) era. Formed after Prince’s passing, the group originally performed under the NPG name with Estate approval before transitioning to the new name in 2025 for creative freedom and legal clarity. HISTORY & NAME CHANGE The band came together for the official Prince Tribute Concert in 2016, music-directed by Morris Hayes. The overwhelmingly positive response led to an official reunion in 2017. They toured internationally as the New Power Generation until the end of 2022 when the trademark license expired. After a transitional period performing as “former members of the NPG,” the group adopted the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band name in 2025. The change was supported by the late Jellybean Johnson (who held related trademark rights and gave his written blessing) and was driven by new Estate policies restricting unauthorized Prince tribute performances. The new name allows them greater freedom to perform Prince material alongside original compositions and other Minneapolis Sound classics. CORE & ROTATING MEMBERS Morris Hayes – Keyboards, Musical Director (longtime NPG member and Prince’s former musical director) Tony Mosley (Tony M) – Rap, vocals, guitar, dance Sonny T (Sonny Thompson) – Bass MacKenzie – Lead vocals (since 2018) Frequent Alumni Include: BrownMark, Levi Seacer Jr., Tommy Barbarella, Mike Scott, Kirk Johnson, Damon Dickson, Kat Dyson, Ida Nielsen, Shelby J, Marva King, Mono Neon, and many others. PRINCE CONNECTION This is the direct continuation of Prince’s primary band from the Diamonds and Pearls era through the 2000s. Many members served as his core collaborators for over two decades. The group maintains the precision, energy, and funk that defined Prince’s live shows. KEY PERFORMANCES Official Prince Tribute Concert (2016) Paisley Park Celebrations (2017 onward) International tours as NPG and now as Minneapolis Sound All Star Band Regular performances blending Prince hits with expanded repertoire CURRENT DIRECTION While continuing to honor Prince’s catalog with reverence (never imitation), the band is broadening their sets to include original music and tracks from other Minneapolis Sound architects. They emphasize high-energy, meticulously arranged performances that celebrate the entire Minneapolis Sound legacy. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE As the largest and most authentic gathering of Prince’s former NPG members, the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band serves as a vital living link to Prince’s music and spirit. They preserve the funk, showmanship, and community he built while evolving beyond tribute status. Their story reflects the challenges and resilience of Prince’s musical family in the years since his passing. SOURCES Band statements, qgenterprise.com, Prince Vault, Minneapolis music media (The Current, Star Tribune), official announcements from Morris Hayes and band management. 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.

The powerful lead singer of Ta Mara & the Seen who became a favored vocalist at Paisley Park in the early 1990s, recording extensively with Prince for an unreleased project. OVERVIEW Margie Cox (born Margaret Cox, September 1, 1962) is an American R&B and soul singer from Minneapolis. She is best known as the lead vocalist of the Minneapolis Sound band Ta Mara & the Seen and for her deep involvement in Prince’s early-1990s studio sessions. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Raised in Minneapolis, Margie gained local fame as Ta Mara with her band Ta Mara & the Seen. Their 1985 hit “Everybody Dance” (produced by Jesse Johnson) became a Minneapolis Sound classic. She also sang with groups like Lipps Inc. earlier in her career. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince admired Margie’s voice and invited her to record at Paisley Park in the late 1980s and early 1990s. She recorded over 25 songs with him, primarily for a project called M.C. Flash (or Flash), which was never officially released. Prince produced and played on much of the material. She contributed the track “Standing at the Altar” (a Prince composition) to the 1994 Paisley Park compilation 1-800-NEW-FUNK, which was released as a single. KEY RELEASES With Ta Mara & the Seen: Ta Mara & the Seen (1985) – featuring “Everybody Dance” Blueberry Gossip (1988) Prince-Related: “Standing at the Altar” (1994) – Single from 1-800-NEW-FUNK Unreleased M.C. Flash album (recorded 1989–1994) – Dozens of tracks worked on with Prince, Levi Seacer Jr., and others. She also performed locally for decades with Dr. Mambo’s Combo at Bunker’s in Minneapolis. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Margie has been a staple of the Minneapolis music scene for over 40 years. She performed regularly with Dr. Mambo’s Combo every Sunday night for decades. In more recent years, she has spoken about her experiences working with Prince and continues to sing in the Twin Cities area. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Margie Cox represents Prince’s deep commitment to nurturing local Minneapolis talent in the post-Revolution / New Power Generation era. Her powerful, soulful voice was perfectly suited to the evolving Paisley Park sound. The large body of unreleased material she recorded with Prince remains one of the more intriguing “what if” projects in his vault, highlighting his ongoing support for strong female vocalists from his hometown. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Margie Cox, 1-800-NEW-FUNK liner notes. 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.

The global pop icon whose orbit briefly intersected with Prince’s in the late 1980s and early 1990s, resulting in one of the most talked-about (and controversial) collaborations of both artists’ careers. OVERVIEW Madonna Louise Ciccone (born August 16, 1958) is one of the best-selling and most influential recording artists of all time. Known for constant reinvention, provocative imagery, and boundary-pushing pop, she dominated the charts throughout the 1980s and 1990s. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Bay City, Michigan, Madonna moved to New York City in the late 1970s to pursue dance and music. She rose to fame in 1983–1984 with hits like “Holiday,” “Borderline,” and “Like a Virgin.” PRINCE CONNECTION Prince and Madonna’s paths crossed socially and creatively in the late ’80s. The most notable collaboration was on the 1990 single “Justify My Love” (from Madonna’s The Immaculate Collection). Prince wrote and played guitar on the track (uncredited at the time), while Ingrid Chavez provided spoken-word poetry. The steamy, black-and-white video was banned by MTV, generating massive publicity. There were also rumors of a brief romantic involvement and reports that Prince sent Madonna several songs over the years (some of which she reportedly turned down). Their relationship was described as a mix of mutual admiration and creative rivalry. KEY RELEASES INVOLVING PRINCE “Justify My Love” (1990) – Co-written with Lenny Kravitz and Prince. Madonna has spoken about Prince’s influence and their shared interest in pushing artistic and sexual boundaries. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Madonna’s career spans over four decades with era-defining albums like Like a Virgin, True Blue, Like a Prayer, Ray of Light, and Confessions on a Dance Floor. She continues to tour, direct films, and release new music into the 2020s. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Madonna represents one of the few true global mega-stars who directly collaborated with Prince. Their intersection highlighted the 1980s–90s crossover between Minneapolis funk and mainstream pop. “Justify My Love” stands as a bold, sensual moment where Prince’s shadowy production perfectly matched Madonna’s provocative style. Their connection added another layer to the mythology around both artists. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Rolling Stone, Billboard, Madonna’s interviews, official discographies. 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.

The groundbreaking guitarist and keyboardist duo who brought melodic sophistication, emotional depth, and creative partnership to Prince & The Revolution during their most iconic era. OVERVIEW Wendy Melvoin (guitar, vocals) and Lisa Coleman (keyboards, vocals) are an American musical duo, best known as core members of Prince’s band The Revolution from 1983 to 1986. Their close musical and personal bond with Prince helped shape some of his most celebrated work. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Lisa Coleman: Born August 17, 1960, in Los Angeles. Daughter of session musician Gary Coleman. She joined Prince in 1980, replacing Gayle Chapman on keyboards. Wendy Melvoin: Born January 28, 1964, in Los Angeles. Daughter of jazz musician Mike Melvoin and twin sister of Jonathan Melvoin (later of The Smashing Pumpkins). She joined The Revolution in 1983, replacing Dez Dickerson on guitar. The two became fast friends and musical soulmates, often writing and arranging together. PRINCE CONNECTION Wendy and Lisa were instrumental (literally and figuratively) in Prince’s purple peak. They contributed heavily to Purple Rain, Around the World in a Day, and Parade. They co-wrote several tracks with Prince, including “Computer Blue,” “Mountains,” and “Sometimes It Snows in April.” Their influence brought richer harmonies, pop sensibility, and emotional vulnerability to the band’s sound. After the dissolution of The Revolution in 1986, Prince continued working with them sporadically. They left due to creative and personal differences but have always spoken with respect about their time with him. KEY RELEASES As Wendy & Lisa Wendy & Lisa (1987) Fruit at the Bottom (1989) Eroica (1990) Girl Bros. (1998) With Prince Major contributions to: Purple Rain (1984) Around the World in a Day (1985) Parade (1986) Sign o’ the Times (1987) – some lingering contributions Notable songs: “Purple Rain,” “Take Me With U,” “Condition of the Heart,” “Under the Cherry Moon,” and “Sometimes It Snows in April.” STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER They were highly visible during the Purple Rain tour and Parade tour. After leaving Prince, they built a successful career as a duo, composers for film and television (Heroes, Crossing Jordan, Nurse Jackie), and occasional collaborators with other artists. They have reunited for Revolution tribute performances and spoke warmly at Prince’s memorial events. In 2023–2025 they have been active in The Revolution reunion shows. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Wendy & Lisa represented the feminine, melodic, and collaborative core of The Revolution. Their musicality helped elevate Prince’s work from brilliant funk to emotionally rich pop-rock masterpieces. They were among the few band members who actively co-wrote and arranged with Prince, making them essential to the classic “Purple” sound. Their departure marked the end of one of Prince’s most creatively fertile periods. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Wendy & Lisa official site, interviews (The Current, Mojo, Billboard), 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.

The London-born rapper and Native Tongues member who brought her sharp lyrical style into Prince’s orbit in the early 1990s, resulting in a notable collaboration on her second album. OVERVIEW Monie Love (born Simone Johnson, née Gooden, July 2, 1970) is an English rapper, actress, and radio personality. She emerged as a key figure in late-1980s/early-1990s hip-hop, known for her witty, conscious lyrics and as one of the few British female MCs to gain significant traction in the U.S. scene EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Battersea, London, to a jazz musician father, Monie fell in love with hip-hop as a teenager. She moved to New York in 1988 and quickly aligned with Queen Latifah and the Native Tongues collective (De La Soul, A Tribe Called Quest, etc.). Her debut album Down to Earth (1990) earned critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination. PRINCE CONNECTION In the early 1990s, while both were on Warner Bros., Prince took interest in Monie. He co-wrote and produced several tracks for her second album, most notably the single “Born 2 B.R.E.E.D.” (a #1 Dance hit). He also contributed to the title track “In a Word or 2” (Paisley Park Mix). Prince invited her to Paisley Park, where she has shared stories of being personally toured around the facility. He additionally asked her to write lyrics for tracks on Carmen Electra’s 1993 Paisley Park album. KEY RELEASES Down to Earth (1990) – Debut album. In a Word or 2 (1993) – Featuring Prince-produced tracks “Born 2 B.R.E.E.D.” and “In a Word or 2.” Later work includes guest appearances and radio hosting (she has had a long career as a radio personality in the U.S.). STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Monie performed at various hip-hop events in the ’90s and has remained active as a respected elder stateswoman of hip-hop. She continues to release music occasionally, act, and host radio shows. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Monie Love represents Prince’s interest in hip-hop and his willingness to collaborate with strong, independent female voices outside his usual funk/R&B circle. Their work together bridged Minneapolis funk with progressive hip-hop, and “Born 2 B.R.E.E.D.” stands as a fun, dancefloor-oriented highlight of Prince’s early-’90s production for other artists. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, interviews with Monie Love, 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.

Prince’s mysterious instrumental jazz-funk fusion project, presented as a fictional band to explore his jazz roots away from the spotlight of his pop-funk persona.nfluenced the Lovesexy era and resulted in a unique Paisley Park release. OVERVIEW Madhouse was a side project created by Prince in 1986–1987 as an outlet for his jazz influences. The group was marketed as a mysterious Atlanta-based jazz outfit led by saxophonist Eric Leeds, with a completely fabricated backstory involving fictional members. In reality, it was primarily Prince and Eric Leeds on the first album, expanding for the second. ORIGIN & CONCEPT The project evolved from earlier instrumental sessions (including the shelved The Flesh concept). Prince wanted to release jazzier material without it being judged as a “Prince album.” All tracks were numbered sequentially across releases, starting from “1” to “16.” KEY RELEASES 8 Released: January 21, 1987 Label: Paisley Park Records Notes: Entirely instrumental. Prince played all instruments except Eric Leeds’ saxophones and flute. Standout tracks include “6,” “7,” and “8.” Presented anonymously with a fictional band bio. 16 Released: November 18, 1987 Label: Paisley Park Records Notes: Expanded sound with contributions from Levi Seacer Jr., Matt “Dr.” Fink, and Sheila E. on select tracks. Continued the numbered track format (9 through 16). A planned third album (24) was started but never completed/released. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince created, produced, and played the majority of instruments on both albums (often under the pseudonym “Austra Chanel” for keyboards). Eric Leeds was the featured soloist and public face. Madhouse performed as an opening act (in hooded monk disguises) during parts of the Sign o’ the Times tour in Europe. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Live performances were limited and theatrical. After 1987, the project went dormant, though some material from later sessions appeared on compilations or Eric Leeds’ solo work (Times Squared). In the years since, the albums have gained cult status among Prince fans for showcasing his jazz-funk fusion side. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Madhouse allowed Prince to indulge his love of jazz (influenced by his father) and experiment freely. It demonstrated his desire to create music beyond his superstar image and gave Eric Leeds a prominent creative platform. The project remains one of the most intriguing and underappreciated chapters in Prince’s vast catalog of side projects. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, JazzTimes, Prince official discography, Goldies Parade, 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.

A poet, singer-songwriter, and visual artist known as Prince’s “Spirit Child,” whose spoken-word contributions and creative partnership deeply influenced the Lovesexy era and resulted in a unique Paisley Park release. OVERVIEW Ingrid Julia Chavez (born January 21, 1965) is an American singer, poet, songwriter, actress, and visual artist of Mexican-American descent. She became one of the most ethereal and poetic voices in Prince’s late-1980s creative circle. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Ingrid moved to Minneapolis in 1986 seeking a music career. She worked in coffee shops while auditioning and networking in the local scene before her fateful meeting with Prince. PRINCE CONNECTION Ingrid met Prince in late 1987 at a pub in Uptown Minneapolis. Impressed by her poetry and voice, Prince quickly brought her into his world. She was credited as “The Spirit Child” on the Lovesexy album (1988), notably delivering the spoken outro on “Alphabet St.” They recorded an improvisational poetry session at Paisley Park where Prince played keyboards while Ingrid recited poems. She co-starred as the angelic character Aura in Prince’s 1990 film Graffiti Bridge. KEY RELEASES May 19, 1992 Released: 1991 (Paisley Park Records) Notes: Her debut solo album, built around the 1987 poetry sessions with Prince. He produced and played on several tracks; the atmospheric, spoken-word-driven project blends poetry, ambient music, and soul. Standouts include “Heaven Must Be Near,” “Elephant Box,” and “Jadestone.” She also co-wrote lyrics for Madonna’s “Justify My Love” (1990) with Lenny Kravitz, though that led to a public credit dispute. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Ingrid appeared in Graffiti Bridge and contributed to other Prince-related projects. After her Paisley Park album, she stepped back from the spotlight to focus on family and other artistic pursuits, including visual art, jewelry design, and photography. She has occasionally returned with new music and reflections on her time with Prince. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Ingrid Chavez brought a spiritual, poetic, and feminine energy to Prince’s work during a transformative period (Lovesexy through Graffiti Bridge). Her collaboration highlighted Prince’s love for spoken word, improvisation, and deep artistic connections. May 19, 1992 remains one of the most unique and intimate releases in the Paisley Park catalog. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, The Current (Minnesota Public Radio), Wax Poetics, official interviews. 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.

A successful country music singer-songwriter from Memphis who crossed paths with Prince in the mid-1980s, resulting in a memorable pop-country collaboration on her album Telepathy OOVERVIEW Deborah Allen (born Deborah Lynn Thurmond, September 30, 1953) is an American country singer, songwriter, and actress. She achieved commercial success in the 1980s with hits like “Baby I Lied” and later worked with Prince on a genre-blending project that highlighted his interest in country music EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Deborah was discovered by Roy Orbison early in her career. She began as a songwriter and background vocalist before launching her solo career on RCA Records, blending country with pop and soul elements. KEY RELEASES Baby I Lied (1983) – Her breakthrough hit (co-written with Rafe Van Hoy and Rory Bourke). Telepathy (1987) – The album featuring the title track written, produced, and performed on by Prince (under the pseudonym Joey Coco). The song became a Top 5 country single and crossed over to the pop charts. Other notable albums include All That I Am (1992) and various later releases. PRINCE CONNECTION In 1986–1987, while both were recording at Sunset Sound in Los Angeles, Deborah reached out to Prince requesting a song. He responded by writing and producing “Telepathy” specifically for her. Prince played multiple instruments on the track. The collaboration reflected Prince’s willingness to work across genres and his under-the-radar country music interests. Deborah has shared warm stories about their meetings, bonding over music, fashion, and dance. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Deborah has maintained a long career as a performer and songwriter. She has released music into the 2020s and continues to tour and share stories from her eclectic career, including her Prince experience. She has also ventured into acting and other creative pursuits. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Deborah Allen represents Prince’s lesser-known but genuine explorations outside of R&B, funk, and rock. The Telepathy project is a fascinating example of Prince contributing to country music under an alias, showcasing his prolific songwriting and production skills while helping bridge genres in the 1980s. SOURCES Prince Vault, Rolling Stone, Wikipedia, official Deborah Allen 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.

A world-renowned saxophonist and one of the most successful instrumentalists to emerge from Prince’s Paisley Park orbit. OVERVIEW Candy Dulfer is a Dutch alto saxophonist, singer, and bandleader known for her smooth jazz, funk, and soulful style. She gained international fame in the early 1990s, notably through her collaborations with Prince, including performing on the Diamonds And Pearls album and tour. ARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born on September 19, 1969, in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Candy is the daughter of legendary Dutch saxophonist Hans Dulfer. She began playing saxophone at a young age and was already leading her own band by her late teens. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered Candy in the late 1980s and invited her to contribute saxophone to several tracks on Diamonds And Pearls (1991). She toured with Prince and the New Power Generation, becoming one of the most visible members of his extended musical family during that era. KEY RELEASES Saxuality Released: 1991 Label: Arista Records Notes: Her breakthrough debut solo album. Dulfer & Dulfer (with Hans Dulfer) Released: 2002 Label: Eagle Records Right In My Soul Released: 2003 Label: Eagle Records Big Girl Released: 1995 Label: BMG / Ariola STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Candy has maintained a prolific solo career, releasing multiple albums and touring worldwide. She continues to perform and record, often blending jazz, funk, and pop. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Candy Dulfer brought a fresh, vibrant saxophone voice to Prince’s music during the Diamonds And Pearls era. Her energetic stage presence and soulful playing made her a standout member of the New Power Generation and helped expand the sonic palette of Paisley Park in the early 1990s. SOURCES Prince Vault, Discogs, Wikipedia 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.

Prince’s elegant dancer, vocalist, and muse who became one of his most personal artistic and romantic collaborators in the mid-1990s. Mayte Garcia is a Puerto Rican-American singer, dancer, actress, and choreographer best known for her close creative and personal relationship with Prince. She rose to prominence as a member of the New Power Generation and released her debut solo album Child of the Sun under Prince’s guidance EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born Mayte Jannell Garcia on November 12, 1973, in Fort Rucker, Alabama, she grew up in a military family and began dancing at a very young age. She gained early recognition as a child dancer and won several talent competitions before moving to Minnesota, where she was discovered by Prince. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince first noticed Mayte when she was 16 during a performance and later brought her into the New Power Generation as a dancer and vocalist. He wrote and produced her debut single “If ♥ Love U 2night” and her album Child of the Sun. Their professional relationship evolved into a romantic one, culminating in marriage in 1996. KEY RELEASES If ♥ Love U 2night Released: 1994 (Europe) / 1995 (USA) Label: NPG Records Notes: Mayte’s debut single, written and produced by Prince. Child of the Sun Released: 1995 Label: NPG Records Notes: Her only full-length solo album, largely produced and written by Prince. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Mayte performed as a dancer and backing vocalist with the New Power Generation on the Diamonds and Pearls and Act I Tours. After her marriage to Prince ended in 2000, she continued working as a choreographer, actress, and television personality. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Mayte represents one of the most personal and creative partnerships in Prince’s life. As both a performer in the NPG and his wife, she was deeply woven into Prince’s artistic world during the mid-1990s, bringing dance elegance and a new emotional dimension to his music. SOURCES Prince Vault, Discogs, Wikipedia 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.

(Glam Slam Escape — Associated Artists Series) 🟣 Overview Sheila Escovedo — known worldwide as Sheila E. — is a percussionist, singer, songwriter, bandleader, and one of the most electrifying performers of her generation. Born into a legendary musical family, she became one of Prince’s closest collaborators, creative foils, and onstage equals. Her blend of Latin percussion, funk precision, and pop charisma made her a defining force in the Minneapolis sound. 🟣 Early Life & Musical Beginnings Born in Oakland, California, Sheila grew up surrounded by rhythm. Her father, Pete Escovedo, and uncles Coke and Alejandro were central figures in Bay Area Latin jazz. Sheila began performing professionally as a teenager, sharing stages with Billy Cobham, Lionel Richie, Marvin Gaye, and Herbie Hancock. Her early grounding in jazz, fusion, and Latin percussion shaped her explosive performance style. 🟣 Career Breakthroughs • Marvin Gaye — “Midnight Love” Tour (1983) • Debut solo album “The Glamorous Life” (1984) • Grammy nominations for Best New Artist & Best Pop Vocal Performance (1985) • Film appearance — Krush Groove (1985) These early milestones positioned her as both a virtuoso musician and a charismatic frontwoman. 🟣 Music Career & Prince Connection Sheila met Prince in the late ’70s, but their creative partnership ignited in 1983. Prince recognized her as a rare equal — a musician who could match his intensity, precision, and spontaneity. 💜 The Glamorous Life (1984) • Produced, written, and arranged by Prince (uncredited) • Sheila’s breakout hit and signature song • Cemented her as a solo star 💜 Romance 1600 (1985) • Prince appears as “ALEXANDER NEVERMIND” • Includes the iconic duet “A Love Bizarre” 💜 Parade / Sign O’ The Times Era • Full touring member • Percussionist, vocalist, and bandleader • Featured in the Sign O’ The Times concert film 💜 Later Collaborations • One Nite Alone… Tour (2002) • Musicology (2004) • NAACP Image Awards (2005) • Welcome 2 America (2011) • Essence Festival (2014) • Rally 4 Peace (2015) Their partnership spanned three decades, evolving from studio wizardry to deep personal and artistic kinship. 🟣 Discography (Selected Works) Studio Albums The Glamorous Life Released: 1984 Label: Warner Bros. Notes: Prince‑produced breakthrough; includes “The Glamorous Life.” Romance 1600 Released: 1985 Label: Warner Bros. Prince Connection: “A Love Bizarre” + creative direction Notes: A baroque‑funk concept album. Sheila E. Released: 1987 Label: Warner Bros. Notes: A more personal, self‑directed record. Icon Released: 2013 Label: Stilettoflats Notes: Autobiographical, independent, and fiercely rhythmic. Other Musical Projects “The E. Family” Format: Collaborative family album Era: 2010s Notes: Celebrates the Escovedo musical lineage. “Glamorous Life Live” Status: Touring show Notes: A retrospective of Sheila’s hits and Prince collaborations. 🟣 Stage Work & Later Career • The Magic of Christmas — TV special (2000s) • The Grammy Salute to Prince — Featured performer (2020) • The Masked Singer — Contestant (2020) • Autobiography: The Beat of My Own Drum (2014) 🟣 Why She Matters to the Prince Universe Sheila E. is one of the few artists Prince trusted as a true musical equal. She brought Latin fire, jazz sophistication, and fearless showmanship into the Minneapolis sound. Their collaborations shaped some of the most iconic moments in Prince’s career — and hers. 🟣 Glam Flashback Spotlights swirling, timbales blazing, Sheila E. steps forward — not behind Prince, but beside him — proving that funk is a language best spoken in rhythm, sweat, and absolute joy. #SheilaE #AssociatedArtists #Prince #PaisleyPark #GlamSlamEscape #PurpleDotChronicles #MinneapolisSound #PercussionLegend #FunkHistory