The Minneapolis rapper and longtime Prince acquaintance who became one of the first hip-hop artists signed to Paisley Park Records, bringing rap into the Prince universe in the early 1990s OVERVIEW David “TC” Ellis (born in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area) is a rapper, singer, and educator. He is best known for his 1991 album True Confessions, the first rap-focused release on Prince’s Paisley Park Records. TC had known Prince since their teenage years in Minneapolis. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Raised in the Twin Cities, Ellis earned the nickname “TC” as a youth. He was inspired by early hip-hop (such as “Rapper’s Delight”) and released local singles like “Twin City Rapp” and “Bat Rap” (the latter tied to the Batman film). His sister, Sue Ann Carwell, was also a vocalist who had early connections to Prince. PRINCE CONNECTION TC had known Prince since junior high and persistently encouraged him to embrace rap. His breakthrough came when Prince heard his “Bat Rap” on local radio. Prince invited him to Paisley Park, leading to a signing in 1989. TC appeared as a rapper in Prince’s 1990 film Graffiti Bridge. Prince contributed to his album by providing songs and production. KEY RELEASES True Confessions Released: May 28, 1991 Label: Paisley Park / Warner Bros. Notes: Produced primarily by Levi Seacer Jr. Features three Prince-related tracks: “Miss Thang” (written by Prince, originally for Morris Day) “Girl O’ My Dreams” (an old Prince composition) A cover of Prince’s “Bambi” Other contributors included George Clinton and Eric Leeds. The album mixed rap with New Jack Swing and Minneapolis Sound elements. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER TC performed at the album launch at Glam Slam nightclub in Minneapolis. After Paisley Park closed, his contract ended and True Confessions became his only major-label album. In 1998, he founded the High School for the Recording Arts (HSRA) in St. Paul, focusing on music education for at-risk youth. He continues to perform occasionally and remains active in the Minneapolis music community. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE TC Ellis represents Prince’s attempt to incorporate hip-hop into the Paisley Park roster during the genre’s rise. As one of the earliest rappers directly tied to Prince’s label and projects, he helped bridge the gap between the Minneapolis funk scene and emerging rap culture. His story highlights Prince’s support for local talent and his evolving interest in different musical directions. SOURCES Prince Vault, Goldies Parade, First Avenue, interviews with TC Ellis. 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 dynamic vocalist, arranger, and musical director who served as a key member of Prince’s New Power Generation from 2006 until his passing, known for her powerhouse voice and commanding stage presence. Shelby J. (born Shelby Johnson, 1981) is an American singer, songwriter, and musical director from St. Louis, Missouri. She became one of the most prominent female voices in Prince’s later career, blending gospel, R&B, funk, and jazz influences. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered Shelby in 2006 and quickly brought her into the New Power Generation. She performed with him consistently from 2006 to 2016, becoming a trusted musical director and arranger. Shelby was a central figure during Prince’s final decade, contributing powerful lead and background vocals on tours and recordings. She was especially prominent during the Welcome 2 America era and the Piano & A Microphone tours. KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE Planet Earth (2007) Lotusflow3r / MPLSound (2009) 20Ten (2010) Welcome 2 America (2021 – posthumous, features Shelby prominently) Various live albums and one-off recordings She also performed on many of Prince’s final tours, including the highly acclaimed Piano & A Microphone solo tour. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Shelby was known for her high-energy performances, gospel-influenced runs, and ability to hold her own alongside Prince. Since Prince’s passing, she has remained active as a solo artist, musical director, and advocate for Prince’s legacy. She has participated in numerous tribute concerts and continues to perform with other former NPG members. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Shelby J. was one of the most important female collaborators in Prince’s final decade. Her powerful voice and spiritual depth added a rich layer to his later sound. As both a featured vocalist and musical director, she helped Prince maintain high-level live performances right up until the end of his career. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Shelby J., The Current (Minnesota Public Radio). 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 gifted singer with a powerful, multi-octave voice who collaborated closely with Prince in the late 1980s and early 1990s, most notably on the Batman soundtrack and her own Paisley Park-associated recordings. Elisa Fiorillo (born September 28, 1969) is an American singer, songwriter, and voice actress. She first gained attention in the late 1980s with her dance-pop and R&B style, blending soulful vocals with pop accessibility. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince was impressed by Elisa’s vocal range and brought her into his orbit around 1988–1989. Their most prominent collaboration was the duet “The Arms of Orion” on the 1989 Batman soundtrack, which reached the Top 40. Prince also produced and wrote several songs for her, including material for her 1990 album I Am. She recorded at Paisley Park and was part of the extended Prince family during the Batman and Graffiti Bridge era. KEY RELEASES With Prince: “The Arms of Orion” (1989) – Duet with Prince from the Batman soundtrack I Am (1990) – Features Prince-penned and produced tracks Solo Highlights: Elisa Fiorillo (1987) – Her debut album Various singles including “Forgive Me for Dreaming” STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Elisa performed live with Prince on several occasions and was featured in some of his projects. After her time in the Prince camp, she continued her career as a session vocalist, songwriter, and voice actress (notably providing vocals for animated projects). She has remained active in music and has spoken positively about her experiences working with Prince. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Elisa Fiorillo was one of Prince’s key female vocal collaborators during the transitional period between The Revolution and the New Power Generation. Her strong, versatile voice complemented Prince’s style perfectly on ballads and uptempo tracks alike. “The Arms of Orion” remains one of the most memorable Prince duets of the late 1980s. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Elisa Fiorillo. 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 dynamic, soulful vocalist with a powerhouse voice who became one of Prince’s most prominent featured singers in the New Power Generation during his final years. Liv Warfield (born May 10, 1982) is an American singer, songwriter, and performer from California. Known for her rich, gritty, and emotionally charged vocal style, she brought a bold, contemporary edge to Prince’s later live shows and recordings PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered Liv in 2012 and quickly integrated her into the New Power Generation. She became one of his most frequently featured vocalists from 2012 until his passing in 2016. Prince produced and mentored her solo work, and she performed extensively with him during the Welcome 2 America era and the final tours. She was especially noted for her commanding stage presence and her ability to deliver high-energy, gospel-tinged performances. KEY RELEASES Solo: Wrapped Up in Your Love (2013) – Produced with Prince’s guidance The Unexpected (2014) With Prince & The NPG: Welcome 2 America (2021 – posthumous release, features Liv prominently) Various live recordings and special performances (2013–2016) STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Liv was a standout during Prince’s final tours, often delivering standout solo moments and duets. Since Prince’s passing, she has continued her solo career, releasing new music and performing at Prince tribute events. She remains one of the most respected voices from Prince’s later musical family. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Liv Warfield represented the strong, soulful feminine energy Prince sought in his later bands. Her powerful vocals and fearless stage presence made her a perfect fit for the evolving NPG sound. She helped bridge Prince’s classic funk roots with a more modern, gritty R&B/soul approach in his final chapter. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Liv Warfield, official artist site. 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 virtuosic Canadian bassist who became one of Prince’s most important musical collaborators and a core member of his bands from 1996 until his passing, known for her melodic, funky, and technically brilliant playing. Rhonda Smith (born 1970) is a Canadian bassist, singer, and songwriter. She is widely respected as one of the finest bassists in modern funk, jazz, and rock music, celebrated for her expressive tone, groove, and improvisational skills. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince recruited Rhonda in 1996 after being impressed by her playing. She quickly became one of his most trusted band members, performing with him consistently from 1996 to 2016. She played on many key albums including Emancipation (1996), The Truth... (1997), Newpower Soul (1998), Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999), and Musicology (2004). Rhonda was a major part of both the New Power Generation and various smaller configurations, often sharing the stage with Larry Graham. KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE Emancipation (1996) The Truth... (1997) Newpower Soul (1998) Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999) Musicology (2004) 3121 (2006) Numerous live recordings and tours STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Rhonda was known for her standout bass solos and her ability to lock in tightly with Prince’s vision. She toured the world with him for two decades and was one of the few musicians who remained with him until the very end. Since Prince’s passing, she has continued as a solo artist, session musician, and educator. She has also performed in various Prince tribute projects and released her own music. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Rhonda Smith is one of the most significant instrumentalists in Prince’s entire career. Her long tenure (20 years) and deep musical chemistry with Prince made her an essential part of his sound in the post-Revolution era. She helped bridge the gap between classic funk and more modern, sophisticated arrangements, and she remains one of the most respected figures in the Prince musical family. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, Bass Player Magazine, interviews with Rhonda Smith. 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 silky-voiced R&B prodigy who was one of the brightest young stars mentored and written for by Prince in the early 1990s. OVERVIEW Tevin Campbell (born November 12, 1976) is an American R&B and soul singer. Discovered as a child, he became one of the most successful teenage R&B artists of the early 1990s, known for his smooth falsetto, powerful range, and mature delivery. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Waxahachie, Texas, Tevin began singing in church and was discovered by producer Quincy Jones. He first appeared on Jones’ Back on the Block album in 1989. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince took a major interest in Tevin and contributed significantly to his early career. He wrote and produced the song “Round and Round” for Tevin’s debut album, which became a major hit and earned Tevin a Grammy nomination. Prince also wrote “Goodbye” and produced additional tracks. Tevin appeared in Prince’s 1990 film Graffiti Bridge, playing the character Dame and performing several songs on the soundtrack, including “Round and Round.” Their collaboration helped launch Tevin into stardom while giving Prince another outlet for his songwriting during a transitional period. KEY RELEASES T.E.V.I.N. (1991) – Featuring the Prince-penned hit “Round and Round” I’m Ready (1993) – His most successful album Back to the World (1996) Notable Prince-related songs: “Round and Round” “Goodbye” Contributions to the Graffiti Bridge soundtrack STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Tevin toured extensively in the 1990s, including opening for Prince. After a successful run of hits, he stepped back from the spotlight in the late 1990s but has continued to perform, release music, and tour into the 2020s. He has spoken fondly of Prince’s mentorship and influence on his vocal style and work ethic. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Tevin Campbell was one of the most commercially successful artists Prince directly mentored and wrote for. Their collaboration helped bridge the gap between Prince’s late-1980s purple era and the New Jack Swing/early-1990s R&B scene. “Round and Round” remains a timeless Minneapolis Sound classic and one of Prince’s most effective songs written for another artist. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Billboard, interviews with Tevin Campbell, 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 legendary gospel and soul icon who formed a deep, late-career creative partnership with Prince, resulting in some of the most powerful and spiritually rich music of both artists’ careers. OVERVIEW Mavis Staples (born July 10, 1939) is an American rhythm & blues and gospel singer. She rose to fame as the lead singer of the legendary family group The Staple Singers. In her later years, she became one of Prince’s most cherished collaborators. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince was a longtime admirer of Mavis and The Staple Singers. Their collaboration began in earnest in the mid-2000s. Prince produced and wrote songs for several of her albums, invited her to perform at Paisley Park, and developed a close friendship. Mavis often referred to Prince as her “adopted son.” KEY RELEASES WITH PRINCE The Voice (2010) – Prince produced several tracks One True Vine (2013) – Produced by Prince Livin’ on a High Note (2016) – Prince wrote and produced multiple songs Various live performances together, including at Paisley Park Prince also wrote the song “Road to the Sky” for her and frequently praised her voice and spirit. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Mavis continues to tour and record into her 80s. She has won multiple Grammys and remains a revered figure in American music. After Prince’s passing, she has spoken movingly about their relationship and performed tributes to him. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Mavis Staples brought a powerful gospel-rooted authenticity to Prince’s later work. Their collaboration represented Prince’s spiritual side and his desire to connect with legendary artists. The music they made together stands as some of the most heartfelt and mature work in Prince’s catalog.

The leading band of the Paisley Underground movement who became one of the first rock acts signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records, blending 1960s-inspired psychedelic pop with the Minneapolis Sound. The Three O’Clock was an American rock band formed in Los Angeles in 1981. Known for their jangly guitars, catchy melodies, and psychedelic aesthetic, they were key figures in the “Paisley Underground” scene alongside bands like The Bangles and Rain Parade. In 1985, Prince signed them to his newly formed Paisley Park Records label. MEMBERS Michael Quercio – Lead vocals, bass (founder) Louis Gutierrez – Guitar Danny Benair – Drums Mickey Mariano – Keyboards PRINCE CONNECTION Prince discovered the band through their independent releases and was drawn to their retro-psychedelic sound. In 1985, he signed them to Paisley Park Records, making them one of the first non-funk/R&B acts on the label. Prince executive-produced their major-label debut album and contributed to the overall vision. The band opened for Prince and The Revolution on select dates during the Around the World in a Day era. KEY RELEASES Arriving Late to the Party (1985) – Their first indie release 16 Tambourines (1985) – Paisley Park Records debut, executive produced by Prince Notable tracks: “Jet Fighter,” “On Our Own,” “Hand in Hand” The album mixed dreamy psychedelia with power-pop and received strong critical acclaim in the underground scene. STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER The Three O’Clock toured in support of their Paisley Park album but the relationship with the label was relatively short-lived. They released one more album (Ever After, 1987) before disbanding in 1988. Michael Quercio later formed The Permanent Green Light and has occasionally reunited The Three O’Clock for shows. The band has been cited as a major influence on the modern indie/neo-psychedelic revival. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE The Three O’Clock represented Prince’s desire to expand the musical scope of Paisley Park Records beyond funk, R&B, and dance music. Their signing showed Prince’s appreciation for diverse sounds and his support for the creative underground. They helped bring the psychedelic “Paisley” aesthetic (which Prince himself embraced during the Around the World in a Day period) into the mainstream label world. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, interviews with Michael Quercio, Paisley Underground retrospectives. 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 talented saxophonist who brought sophisticated jazz and funk textures to Prince’s music throughout the mid-1980s and beyond, becoming one of his most enduring musical collaborators. OVERVIEW Eric Leeds (born January 19, 1952) is an American tenor and alto saxophonist known primarily for his extensive work with Prince. He contributed a distinctive horn sound that blended jazz improvisation with Prince’s funk, rock, and pop sensibilities. Brother of Prince’s longtime tour manager Alan Leeds. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Eric grew up in a musical family. He developed his skills as a jazz saxophonist before entering the Prince universe. His brother Alan’s position with Prince opened the door for the collaboration. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince first brought Eric in during 1984 to record with the side project The Family. Impressed by his playing, Prince incorporated him into The Revolution for the latter part of the Purple Rain tour and kept him for subsequent bands. Eric played on major albums including Around the World in a Day, Parade, Sign o’ the Times, Lovesexy, and many more. He was also a key member of the jazz-funk side project Madhouse. KEY RELEASES With The Family (1985) – Featured prominently on tracks like “High Fashion” and “Mutiny.” Madhouse projects (1987–1988) – Instrumental jazz-funk albums 8 and 16. Times Squared (1991) – Solo debut on Paisley Park Records (originally Madhouse material reworked). Things Left Unsaid (1993) – Follow-up solo album. Prince albums – Major contributions to Sign o’ the Times, The Black Album, Graffiti Bridge, Diamonds and Pearls, and N.E.W.S. (2003). STAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Eric toured extensively with Prince from 1985–1989 (including Parade, Sign o’ the Times, and Lovesexy tours). He continued occasional studio work with Prince into the early 2000s. After Prince’s passing, he has participated in tributes and spoken about their creative process in interviews. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Eric Leeds filled a vital role as Prince’s primary saxophonist during a highly creative period. His jazz background helped expand Prince’s sonic range, especially during the Sign o’ the Times era. Prince, who didn’t play saxophone, relied on Eric’s improvisational skills and gave him significant freedom in the studio and on stage. Their long collaboration produced some of the most musically adventurous moments in Prince’s catalog. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, interviews (The Last Miles, Richmond Magazine), 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.

Minneapolis funk-rock band and the very first act signed to Prince’s Paisley Park Records label, mentored and supported by Prince and produced by his bassist BrownMark. Mazarati was an R&B/funk band formed in Minneapolis in the early-to-mid 1980s. They blended funk, rock, and soul with a high-energy Minneapolis Sound style. Their self-titled debut album remains their most notable release and a key early example of the expanded Paisley Park family. EARLY LIFE & MUSICAL BEGINNINGS The group was assembled by BrownMark (Mark Brown), bassist for Prince and The Revolution. Several members, including Sir Casey Terry and others, were Minneapolis musicians. BrownMark brought them together and served as their primary producer and songwriter. PRINCE CONNECTION Prince gave strong behind-the-scenes support to the project. He wrote and largely performed on the track “100 MPH”, which became their biggest hit. Prince also contributed to or rewrote lyrics for other songs and allowed the band to record early versions of “Kiss” (which he later reclaimed for Parade) and “Jerk Out”. Mazarati was officially the first artist signed to the newly formed Paisley Park Records. KEY RELEASES Mazarati (self-titled debut) Released: March 4, 1986 Label: Paisley Park / Warner Bros. Notable tracks: “100 MPH” (Prince-penned lead single), “Strawberry Lover,” “I Guess It’s All Over.” The album mixed BrownMark’s compositions with Prince’s direct input. They released a handful of singles afterward and had some activity into the late 1980s before disbanding around 1989. Some members later worked with artists like Paula Abdul. SSTAGE WORK & LATER CAREER Mazarati performed live in the Minneapolis scene and supported the promotion of their album. In more recent years, surviving original members (including Marr Starr/OneGunn, Craig “Screamer” Powell, and Tony Christian) have reunited for occasional performances and tributes, sometimes joined by BrownMark. WHY THEY MATTER TO THE PRINCE UNIVERSE Mazarati holds a historic place as Paisley Park Records’ first signing. They exemplified Prince’s vision of nurturing local Minneapolis talent and expanding the “family” sound. Their album captures the raw, funky energy of the mid-1980s Paisley Park era, and the Prince-penned “100 MPH” stands as a fun, high-octane example of his songwriting for other artists. SOURCES Prince Vault, Wikipedia, Discogs, OneGunn Entertainment, interviews with BrownMark and band members. 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 cheeky, fuzz‑rock strut backed with a powerhouse live performance from Paisley Park. RELEASE DETAILS Date: November 18, 1993 Catalogue: 7-18372 (7"), 9 18372-4 (Cassette), 9 18372-2 (CD), PRO-CD-5992 (Promo) Format: 7" Single, Cassette Single, CD Single, CD Promo Country: United States Label: Paisley Park / Warner Bros. Records Album: The Hits 2 / The Hits / The B-Sides (1993) A-Side: Peach THE STORY Released on November 18, 1993 in the United States, Peach served as a key promotional single for The Hits 2 and the The Hits / The B-Sides box set. The A-side features the studio version of this playful, guitar-driven track, while the B-side delivers a powerful live recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U” featuring Rosie Gaines, captured at Paisley Park on January 27, 1992. CONTEXT & NOTES This US edition stands out for pairing Prince’s mischievous rock swagger with an emotionally charged live performance. Pressed by Specialty Records Corporation, the single was part of the broader Hits campaign. While Peach achieved stronger chart success internationally, the US release remains a fan favorite for its unique B-side and Symbol-era energy. TRACK LIST 7" Single (7-18372) A. Peach — 3:48 B. Nothing Compares 2 U (Live) — 4:17 (feat. Rosie Gaines & The New Power Generation) Cassette Single (9 18372-4 / 4-18372) A. Peach — 3:48 B. Nothing Compares 2 U (Live) — 4:17 (feat. Rosie Gaines & The New Power Generation) CD Single (9 18372-2 / 2-18372) Peach — 3:48 Nothing Compares 2 U (Live) — 4:17 (feat. Rosie Gaines & The New Power Generation) CD Promo (PRO-CD-5992) Peach — 3:48 All Variants 7" Single (7-18372) Cassette Single (9 18372-4) CD Single (9 18372-2) CD Promo (PRO-CD-5992) CHART PERFORMANCE US Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100: Peak No. 7 UK Singles Chart: Peak No. 14 Netherlands Single Top 100: Peak No. 8 Europe Eurochart Hot 100: Peak No. 26 PERSONNEL Prince – vocals, instruments, production Rosie Gaines – vocals (live B-side) The New Power Generation – performance (live B-side) Mixed by Keith “KC” Cohen PACKAGING HIGHLIGHTS Generic purple Paisley Park sleeve for 7" Cardboard sleeve for CD edition Striking purple and gold label design with barcode and detailed credits WHAT THE LABEL / SLEEVE SHOWS Classic Paisley Park purple and gold 7" labels featuring full credits, “PEACH” on the A-side and the live “Nothing Compares 2 U” on the B-side, with Warner Bros. and Paisley Park branding. RELATED MATERIAL Prince (December 6, 1993) Controversy - Single UK Prince (April 1994) Pope - Promo Single UK/Spain Prince (February 9, 1994) The Most Beautiful Girl in the World - Single US SOURCES Prince Vault • Discogs • Official Charts Company • Billboard COPYRIGHT NOTICE All single artwork, photographs, logos, 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. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied. CD Single – Cardboard Sleeve (9 18372‑2 / 2‑18372) 1: Peach — 3:48 2: Nothing Compares 2 U (Live) — 4:17 CD Promo (PRO‑CD‑5992) 1: Peach — 3:48 Label: Paisley Park / Warner Bros. Records Published by Controversy Music (admin. WB Music Corp. ASCAP) Pressed by Specialty Records Corporation Lacquer cut by RB (Precision Lacquer)

The first independent release by — and a global phenomenon. A landmark single that broke Prince free from Warner Bros., launched NPG Records, and became his first UK No. 1 hit. RELEASE DETAILS Date: February 9, 1994 Catalogue: BR-72514 (7"/CD/Cassette), BR-72516 (Staxowax), BR-72521 (Mustang), etc. Format: 7" Single, 12" Single, CD Single, Cassette Single, Promo Country: United States (primary) / International Label: NPG Records / Bellmark Album: The Gold Experience (1995) A-Side: The Most Beautiful Girl in the World THE STORY Released on February 9, 1994, The Most Beautiful Girl in the World was the first single credited to the Love Symbol and the inaugural release on NPG Records. Issued independently of Warner Bros., it marked Prince’s bold declaration of artistic freedom. The track later appeared on The Gold Experience. Multiple versions and formats followed, including the The Beautiful Experience EP. CONTEXT & NOTES This single was a seismic turning point — Prince’s first independent release, first NPG Records single, and first UK No. 1. Warner Bros. blocked the planned B-side “New World,” leading to the creation of “Beautiful.” The campaign featured numerous mixes treated as separate releases (Staxowax, Mustang, 4U). It became a worldwide success despite chart-boosting allegations. TRACK LIST 7" Single (BR-72514) A. The Most Beautiful Girl in the World — 4:37 B. Beautiful — 3:56 Cassette Single (BR-72514-4) A. The Most Beautiful Girl in the World B. Beautiful CD Single (BR-72514-2) The Most Beautiful Girl in the World — 4:37 Beautiful — 3:56 Staxowax CD Single (BR-72516-2) The Most Beautiful Girl in the World (Staxowax Mix) Mustang Mix CD Single (BR-72521-2) The Most Beautiful Girl in the World (Mustang Mix) 4U CD Longbox 4U (The Most Beautiful Girl in the World) All Variants 7" Single (BR-72514) Cassette Single (BR-72514-4) CD Single (BR-72514-2) Staxowax CD Single (BR-72516-2) Mustang Mix CD Single (BR-72521-2) 4U CD Longbox Various Promo & International Editions The Beautiful Experience EP (1994) WHAT THE LABEL / SLEEVE SHOWS Iconic yellow speech bubble artwork featuring a collage of diverse women’s portraits with bold purple text “the Most Beautiful Girl in the World” and the Love Symbol. CHART PERFORMANCE US Billboard Hot 100: Peak No. 3 US Billboard R&B Singles: Peak No. 2 UK Singles Chart: Peak No. 1 PERSONNEL Prince (as ) – vocals, instruments, production, arrangement PACKAGING HIGHLIGHTS Front sleeve: Vibrant yellow speech bubble design with collage of women’s faces and purple/pink typography Back sleeve: Track credits and NPG branding RELATED MATERIAL Prince (November 1, 1994) Space - Single US/International Nona Gaye & Prince (1994) Love Sign - Promo Single Prince (March 14, 1995) Purple Medley - Single US SOURCES Prince Vault • Discogs • Billboard • Official Charts Company COPYRIGHT NOTICE All single artwork, photographs, logos, 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. No ownership of the original material is claimed or implied.