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A raw, intimate snapshot of Prince alone at the piano — a one‑take home‑studio session finally revealed from the Vault ✦ SUMMARY Released on 14 September 2018 by NPG Records and Warner Bros. Records (catalogue 564502‑2), Piano & A Microphone 1983 was the first full album issued by the Prince Estate consisting solely of material sourced directly from Prince’s Vault. The UK release followed in October 2018. The recording was discovered on a single cassette tape stored at Paisley Park. Captured in one continuous take at Prince’s Kiowa Trail home studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota, the session features nearly 35 minutes of Prince singing and playing piano, moving fluidly between early versions of future classics, covers, and unreleased sketches. Four of the nine tracks were previously unheard: Mary Don’t You Weep, Wednesday, Cold Coffee & Cocaine, and Why the Butterflies. The album offers a rare, unfiltered glimpse into Prince’s creative process at age 24 — spontaneous, emotional, and breathtakingly intimate. ✦ HIGHLIGHTS • Released 14 September 2018 (US), October 2018 (UK)• First Estate‑issued album sourced entirely from the Vault• Recorded in one take at Prince’s Kiowa Trail home studio• Found on a single cassette tape at Paisley Park• Includes four previously unreleased songs• Issued on CD, vinyl and digital formats ✦ TRACKLISTING 17 Days — 3:05 Purple Rain — 4:56 A Case of U — 1:40 Mary Don’t You Weep — 4:41 Strange Relationship — 2:37 International Lover — 5:08 Wednesday — 2:57 Cold Coffee & Cocaine — 6:14 Why the Butterflies — 3:58 ✦ PRODUCTION & CONTEXT Recorded in 1983 at Prince’s Kiowa Trail home studio.Format: one continuous cassette‑tape session.Personnel: Prince (vocals, piano). The session predates Purple Rain and captures Prince in a transitional moment — moving between the emotional intensity of 1999 and the cinematic ambition of the Purple Rain era. The tape reveals his improvisational instincts, his humour, his vulnerability, and his ability to reshape songs in real time. The release was positioned as a respectful, archival unveiling — not a reconstruction — preserving the tape’s rawness, room ambience, and spontaneous transitions. ✦ DESIGN NOTES — PIANO & A MICROPHONE 1983 (2018) Aesthetic Overview The cover features a black‑and‑white photograph of Prince seated at a dressing‑room mirror, his reflection visible in the glass. The setting includes a table with personal items, soft lighting from mirror bulbs, and a sense of backstage privacy. The typography is understated, allowing the image to carry the emotional weight. Paisley Park & Archival Authenticity The photograph is drawn from Prince’s early‑1980s visual archive — a period when he was crafting the persona that would soon explode globally. Using a candid dressing‑room image reinforces the album’s intimate, unvarnished nature. It mirrors the recording itself: private, unguarded, and never intended for public release. Possible Inspiration & Symbolism • Reflection as Creative Duality Prince is shown both directly and in reflection — a visual metaphor for the duality of the session: the public artist vs. the private creator. The mirror becomes a symbol of self‑examination, fitting for a recording that feels like a diary entry. • Dressing Room as Transitional Space A dressing room is a liminal zone — between rehearsal and performance, between self and persona. The 1983 tape captures Prince in exactly that state: experimenting, shaping ideas, preparing for the next evolution. • Black‑and‑White Minimalism The monochrome palette emphasises timelessness and purity. It strips away glamour, echoing the stripped‑down nature of the recording: just Prince, a piano, and a microphone. • The Home‑Studio Spirit Though the photo is not from Kiowa Trail, it evokes the same energy: a private room, a single performer, a moment of creation. It visually aligns with the cassette‑tape intimacy of the album. Inspiration & Context The Estate chose imagery that honoured the authenticity of the recording — avoiding modern embellishment and instead grounding the release in Prince’s early‑1980s aesthetic. The cover feels archival, respectful and emotionally resonant. Interpretive Note The artwork positions the listener as if they’ve stepped quietly into Prince’s private world — a backstage moment, a rehearsal, a breath between eras. It is one of the most emotionally honest covers in the posthumous catalogue. ✦ LEGACY Piano & A Microphone 1983 is now regarded as one of the most important archival releases of Prince’s career — not for its polish, but for its vulnerability. It reveals the raw creative engine behind some of his most iconic songs and offers a rare, unfiltered portrait of Prince as composer, interpreter and improviser. ✦ PRINCE 1983 MINI‑TIMELINE — THE QUIET BEFORE THE STORM ✦ Early 1983Prince records the Kiowa Trail piano session on cassette. ✦ Mid‑1983Begins shaping material that will become Purple Rain. ✦ Late 1983Rehearsals intensify; the Revolution era crystallises. ✦ 2018The cassette is restored and released as the first Vault‑only Estate album. This era captures Prince on the cusp of global transformation — private, focused and creatively fearless. ✦ GLAM FLASHBACK — THE 1983 SESSION VS. THE 1983 ERA Piano & A Microphone 1983 • Raw, unpolished, intimate• One take, no overdubs• Early sketches and emotional improvisations• Prince alone with his instrument 1983 Studio Output • High‑concept, cinematic production• Building toward Purple Rain  • Full‑band arrangements and evolving sound• Prince as architect of a cultural phenomenon Together, they reveal the private and public sides of Prince’s genius. ✦ SOURCES Personal archive knowledge Prince VaultDiscogs AllMusicRate Your Music Wikipedia Prince Estate official announcements

✦ A Raw, Punk‑Funk Shockwave Prince’s third studio album — a minimalist, home‑recorded explosion of new wave, funk, and sexual provocation that redefined his early sound ✦ Summary Released worldwide on October 8, 1980, Dirty Mind marked a radical transformation in Prince’s artistry. As your document states, “this groundbreaking 8‑track LP… marked a bold leap into raw funk, new wave, and provocative lyricism” . Entirely written, produced, and largely performed by Prince at his home studio in Wayzata, Minnesota, the album fused punk energy with R&B sensuality, shocking audiences with its explicit themes and stripped‑down sound. Recorded primarily on a TEAC 4‑track with overdubs at Hollywood Sound Recorders, the album’s minimalist aesthetic became its signature. The document notes that “the minimalist sound… blended funk, punk, and new wave, with provocative lyrics on tracks like ‘Head’ and ‘Sister’ sparking controversy” . Despite its rawness, Dirty Mind achieved significant chart success, reaching No. 7 in the UK, No. 45 in the US, and earning Gold certifications in both the US and Canada. Its influence on ’80s funk, synth‑pop, and alternative music remains profound. A fearless, era‑defining statement — and one of the most important albums of Prince’s early career. ✦ Highlights • Released October 8, 1980 (Worldwide) • Prince’s third studio album • Entirely written, produced, and largely performed by Prince • Recorded on a TEAC 4‑track at Prince’s home studio • Genre blend: funk, new wave, punk, R&B • UK Albums Chart: No. 7 • US Billboard 200: No. 45 (Gold certified) • Iconic cover featuring Prince in bikini briefs and trench coat • Singles include “Uptown,” “Dirty Mind,” and UK‑exclusive “Do It All Night” ✦ Track Details Vinyl LP / CD / Cassette – 1980 (Warner Bros.) (All formats share the same 8‑track sequence, as confirmed in your document: “Dirty Mind was issued worldwide… each maintaining the same 8‑track sequence.”) Side A / Tracks 1–4 Dirty Mind — 4:14 When You Were Mine — 3:47 Do It All Night — 3:42 Gotta Broken Heart Again — 2:16 Side B / Tracks 5–8 Uptown — 5:32 Head — 4:44 Sister — 1:31 Partyup — 4:24 ✦ Release Formats & Variants Vinyl LP Catalogue: K 56855 (UK), BSK 3478 (US) • 33⅓ RPM, stereo • Black‑and‑white sleeve featuring Prince in bikini briefs • Lyric inner sleeve • Some pressings include promotional sticker (“Housed in a striking sleeve with a black‑and‑white photo of Prince in bikini briefs…”) Compact Disc (CD) Catalogue: 7599‑27408‑2 (mid‑’80s reissue) • Jewel case with booklet containing lyrics, photos, credits 2022 CD Reissue Catalogue: 603497839704 • Updated artwork • Remastered audio from original master tapes • Booklet with liner notes and photos (“This reissue… featured enhanced sound quality from original master tapes.”) Cassette Catalogue: K 456855 (UK), M5 3478 (US) • Standard case with fold‑out J‑card ✦ Production and Context Your document states: “Written, produced, and arranged by Prince… recorded on a TEAC 4‑track in Prince’s home studio, with overdubs in Los Angeles.” Key production notes: • Recorded May–June 1980 • Home studio (Wayzata, Minnesota) + Hollywood Sound Recorders • Prince performs vocals, guitar, bass, drums, synths • Contributions from Dr. Fink (keyboards) and Lisa Coleman (backing vocals) • Minimalist, punk‑funk aesthetic • Explicit themes pushed boundaries of radio and press ✦ Singles Released Uptown — September 1980 • Released in USA, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand • US R&B No. 5 • Multiple 7" and 12" variants • B‑side: “Crazy You” (varies by region) Dirty Mind — November 26, 1980 • US commercial release • B‑side: “When We’re Dancing Close and Slow” • US Disco Top 100: No. 5 Do It All Night — UK‑exclusive single • No chart entry Head — Promo‑only (US/Philippines) When You Were Mine — Promo‑only (US) Gotta Stop (Messin’ About) — June 1981 (UK) • Stand‑alone single tied to the Dirty Mind era • Multiple 7" and 12" variants ✦ Chart Performance “Dirty Mind achieved notable success… UK: No. 7… US: No. 45… certified Gold… Canada: certified Gold.” • UK Albums Chart — No. 7 • US Billboard 200 — No. 45 • US Top R&B/Hip‑Hop Albums — No. 7 • Australia — No. 22 • Canada — No. 26 (Gold) • Netherlands — No. 18 • Germany — No. 34 • New Zealand — No. 29 ✦ Discography Dirty Mind Era Releases: Dirty Mind — 1980 Uptown (Single) — 1980 Dirty Mind (Single) — 1980 Do It All Night (UK Single) — 1980 Gotta Stop (Messin’ About) — 1981 ✦ Prince Era Mini‑Timeline May–June 1980 — Dirty Mind recording sessions September 1980 — “Uptown” released October 8, 1980 — Dirty Mind released worldwide (Black Echoes June 6, 1981) 1981 — “Gotta Stop (Messin’ About)” released 1982 — 1999 expands the punk‑funk blueprint ✦ Glam Flashback Dirty Mind is the moment Prince detonated the boundaries of genre and propriety. The document captures this perfectly: “Its raw sound and provocative themes paved the way for 1999 and Purple Rain.” The album’s blend of punk minimalism, synth‑funk, and taboo‑breaking lyrics created a new musical language — one that influenced everyone from The Time to Depeche Mode. With just eight tracks and a home‑studio setup, Prince delivered a shockwave that still feels electric today. A fearless, foundational masterpiece — and one of the most collectible albums of his early era. Blues & Soul Magazine March 24, 1981 ✦ Image & Artwork Copyright Notice All images, photographs, and artwork referenced or displayed in this post remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. No ownership is claimed, and all rights belong to the original creators, photographers, designers, and publishers. ✦ Sources All factual information in this entry is sourced from the document you provided, including release details, track listings, chart performance, singles, and production notes.

A synth‑funk rebellion — Prince’s boldest political, sexual, and spiritual statement before the 1999 breakthrough. ✦ — SUMMARY Released in the UK on November 13, 1981 by Warner Bros. Records (catalogue K 56950), Controversy was Prince’s fourth studio album and a pivotal step toward the global fame that would follow. Recorded at Kiowa Trail Home Studio, Hollywood Sound, and Sunset Sound, the album fused synth‑funk, new wave, and rock into an 8‑track manifesto exploring identity, politics, sexuality, and faith. The UK vinyl pressing is notable for its misprint, listing “Do Me, Baby” as “Do We Baby.” Despite limited chart impact — peaking at #50 in the Netherlands — the album earned BPI Silver (60,000 UK sales) and set the stage for Prince’s ascent into the mainstream with 1999 and Purple Rain. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released November 13, 1981 (UK) • UK vinyl misprinted “Do Me, Baby” as “Do We Baby” • Recorded at Kiowa Trail, Hollywood Sound, Sunset Sound • Themes: sexuality, politics, identity, religion • BPI Silver certification (60,000 UK) • Formats: vinyl (misprinted), cassette • No UK charting singles • Transitional album leading into the 1999 era ✦ — TRACK DETAILS Vinyl LP – Warner Bros. Records – UK – 1981 Catalogue: K 56950 (Misprinted UK edition) Side A Controversy — 7:14 Sexuality — 4:20 Do Me, Baby — 7:47 (misprinted as “Do We Baby”) Side B Private Joy — 4:25 Ronnie, Talk to Russia — 1:48 Let’s Work — 3:57 Annie Christian — 4:21 Jack U Off — 3:12 Total length: ~37 minutes Cassette Edition – UK (K 456950 / 456 950) Side A Controversy Sexuality Do Me, Baby Side B Private Joy Ronnie, Talk to Russia Let’s Work Annie Christian Jack U Off ✦ — REISSUES & GLOBAL VARIANTS (Verified via Prince Vault, Discogs, Warner Records) 1981 Original Releases • LP — US (with poster) • LP — UK (misprinted, no poster) • Cassette — US/UK • Early CD — mid‑1980s (various territories) Notable UK Variant • Misprinted LP: “Do We Baby” • No poster (unlike US edition) Later Availability • Standard CD reissues • Digital releases on all major platforms • Vinyl represses in select markets ✦ — PRODUCTION AND CONTEXT • Produced, arranged, composed, and performed by Prince • Recorded at: – Kiowa Trail Home Studio – Hollywood Sound – Sunset Sound • Engineers: Mic Guzauski, Bob Mockler, Ross Pallone, Peggy McCreary (uncredited) • Mastered by Bernie Grundman (A&M Studios) • Photography by Allen Beaulieu • Management: Cavallo, Ruffalo & Fargnoli • Personnel highlights: – Prince: all vocals & instruments – Dr. Fink: keyboards on “Jack U Off” – Lisa Coleman: backing vocals & keyboards – Bobby Z.: drums on “Jack U Off” – Morris Day: possible uncredited drums on “Controversy” ✦ — SINGLES RELEASED (UK singles did not chart) Controversy — 1981 Let’s Work — 1981 Do Me, Baby — 1981 (US only) ✦ — CHART PERFORMANCE United Kingdom • Album: BPI Silver (60,000) • Singles: none charted International • Netherlands — #50 (1 week) • US Billboard 200 — Top 40 • US R&B Albums — Top 5 ✦ — DISCOGRAPHY SIDEBAR Dirty Mind — 1980 Controversy — 1981 1999 — 1982 ✦ — PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE 1980 — Dirty Mind shocks critics 1981 — Controversy expands political and sexual themes 1982 — 1999 launches Prince into mainstream superstardom ✦ — GLAM FLASHBACK Controversy is Prince sharpening his voice — political, provocative, and unafraid. The UK misprint pressing has become a cult collectible, but the music itself remains a fearless snapshot of an artist on the brink of global transformation. ✦ — COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, artwork, logos, and related materials referenced or displayed in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. ✦ — SOURCES Prince Vault Discogs Warner Bros. Records catalogue data BPI certification archives Reissues (1984) CD, Album (First Time) Reissue, Target, Grey/Red (Catalogue: 3601-2 / 256 950): Controversy (7:14) Sexuality (4:20) Do Me, Baby (7:47) Private Joy (4:25) Ronnie, Talk To Russia (1:48) Let's Work (3:57) Annie Christian (4:21) Jack U Off (3:12) – Keyboards – Lisa, Fink Packaging: Target bullseye (grey/red/black). Made in West Germany by PolyGram. CDD Pre-Mastering by WCI Record Group. No updated copyright. Vinyl Album: 1- (Warner Bros. K 56 950 / WB K 56 950 / BSK 3601): Released 1984 (UK & Europe). Reissue with new designed labels (7 WB logos: one color, six grey) Some copies may have a discography sheet to promote Purple Rain and related artist projects The labels incorporate "Publisher credits (GB)" to Warner Bros. Music Ltd. [it's on other European releases not credited] ℗ + © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on labels] ℗ © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on rear cover] The catalog numbers appear as follows: WB K 56 950 (BSK 3601) [spine & sleeve] K 56 950 [labels] Direct fan mail to: Prince, P.O. Box 4475, North Hollywood, CA 91607 · Special thanks to God and U Mastered at A&M Records Manufactured in Germany by Record Service GmbH, Alsdorf Pressé en Allemagne par Record Service GmbH, Alsdorf [Warner 'W' logo] a Warner Communications Company Druckhaus Maack KG, Lüdenscheid Embossed [Warner 'W' logo] on rear cover lower right corner. 2- (Warner Bros. WB K 56 950 / K 56 950): Released 1984 (UK & Europe). LP, Album, Reissue, Stereo (Warner Bros. K 56 950 / WB K 56 950): Released 1984 (UK & Europe). Cover: WB K 56 950 (BSK 3601) Labels: [7 'WB-Shield' logo wallpaper] Publisher credits (GB): [...] Warner Bros. Music Ltd. ℗ + © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. K 56 950 Optional: Discography sheet to promote Purple Rain and other Prince-related artist projects 3- (Warner Bros. K 56 950 / WB K 56 950): Released 1984 (UK & Europe). with new designed labels (7 WB logos: one color, six grey). The labels incorporate "Publisher credits (GB):" to Warner Bros. Music Ltd. [not credited on other European releases]. ℗ + © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on labels] ℗ © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on rear sleeve] The catalog numbers appear as follows : WB K 56 950 (BSK 3601) [spine & rear sleeve]- K 56 950 [labels] Direct fan mail to: Prince, P.O. Box 4475, North Hollywood, CA 91607 · Special thanks to God and U Mastered at A&M Records Manufactured in Germany by Record Service GmbH, Alsdorf Pressé en Allemagne par Record Service GmbH, Alsdorf Ⓦ a Warner Communications Company Druckhaus Maack KG, Lüdenscheid Embossed WARNER logo on rear sleeve lower right corner. 4- (Warner Bros. K 56950 / WB K 56950): Released 1984 (UK & Europe). ℗ + © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on labels] ℗ © 1981 Warner Bros. Records Inc. [on rear sleeve] The catalog numbers appear as follows : WB K 56 950 (BSK 3601) [spine & rear sleeve] K 56950 [labels] Embossed WARNER logo on rear sleeve lower right corner. In 1984, on the back of the success of Purple Rain, the album was reissued for the UK and European market, including its first release on compact disc. Production and Context Produced/Arranged/Composed/Performed by Prince. Musicians: Prince (vocals/instruments), Lisa Coleman (background vocals on Controversy/Ronnie/Jack U Off, keyboards on Jack U Off), Bobby Z. (drums on Jack U Off). Engineered by Mic Guzauski, Bob Mockler, Ross Pallone. Recorded August 14–23, 1981. Controversy was Prince’s synth-driven bridge from Dirty Mind to 1999. Singles Released and Chart Performance Controversy spawned two UK singles: Controversy / When You Were Mine (1981, Warner Bros. K 17866): No chart. Let's Work (Edit) / Ronnie, Talk To Russia (1982, Warner Bros. K 17922): No chart. Album Chart Performance EU Controversy charted internationally: The Netherlands (Nationale Hitparade LP Top 50): 50 (1 week) Certification: BPI Silver (UK, 60,000, November 17, 1989) Legacy and Collectibility Controversy is Prince’s synth-funk provocation, with Do Me, Baby and Jack U Off enduring. Verify catalogue K 56950. Streams on Spotify via reissues preserve the analog edge. This LP is a must-have for Prince fans and ‘80s synth collectors. Do you have Controversy in your vinyl stack? Which track controversies you? Share in the comments! Sources Information is drawn from my personal knowledge and supplemented by web sources, including Prince Vault, Discogs, 45cat, AllMusic, Rate Your Music, Wikipedia, BBC Official Charts Company, Billboard Chart History and YouTube What’s the next classic vinyl you’d like to feature? Share in the comments!

Prince’s breakthrough double‑album returns to the UK in full form — restored, expanded, and riding the Purple Rain wave. ✦ — SUMMARY Originally released in the US on October 27, 1982, 1999 became Prince’s first major commercial breakthrough, blending funk, new wave, rock, and R&B into a futuristic double‑LP that defined the early ’80s. The UK, however, the album received a single vinyl truncated edition released on March 7, 1983 — omitting “D.M.S.R.,” “Automatic,” “All the Critics Love U in New York,” and “International Lover.” Following Prince’s explosive European success with Purple Rain, the full 2×LP edition finally arrived in the UK on November 9, 1984, restoring the complete 11‑track running order and original artwork. Recorded at Kiowa Trail Home Studio and Sunset Sound, 1999 was the first album to feature Prince and the Revolution, with Prince performing most instruments himself and contributions from Dez Dickerson, Brown Mark, Bobby Z., Dr. Fink, Lisa Coleman, and Jill Jones. The album reached #9 on the Billboard 200, #1 on the R&B Albums chart, and eventually achieved 4× Platinum in the US. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • First UK release of the full 2×LP on November 9, 1984 • Original UK 1983 edition was a single‑LP with four tracks removed • Recorded at Kiowa Trail Home Studio & Sunset Sound • First album recorded with The Revolution • US Billboard 200 peak: #9 • R&B Albums: #1 • Over 4 million US sales (4× Platinum) • Title track and “Little Red Corvette” became MTV staples • 1983 single‑LP reissued for Record Store Day 2018 ✦ — TRACK DETAILS 2×LP – Warner Bros. Records – UK Reissue – 1984 Catalogue: 92.3720‑1 / 923720‑1 (All music and vocals by Prince unless noted.) Side 1 1999 — 6:22 • Co‑lead vocals: Dez, J.J., Lisa Little Red Corvette — 4:58 • Guitar solos: Dez Delirious — 3:56 • Backing vocals: Lisa Side 2 Let’s Pretend We’re Married — 7:20 D.M.S.R. — 8:05 • Backing vocals & handclaps: Mark Brown, Carol, Jamie Lisa, Peggy, Poochie, The Count A purple insert promoting Prince's back catalogue was included in all the album reissues. Side 3 Automatic — 9:24 • Backing vocals: J.J., Lisa Something in the Water (Does Not Compute) — 4:00 Free — 5:00 • Backing vocals: J.J., Lisa, Vanity, Wendy Side 4 Lady Cab Driver — 8:25 • Voice actor: J.J. All the Critics Love U in New York — 5:55 International Lover — 6:35 Total length: ~70 minutes ✦ — REISSUES & GLOBAL VARIANTS (Verified via Prince Vault, Discogs, Warner Records) 1982 Original US Release • 2×LP — Warner Bros. — Worldwide • Cassette — US/Europe • CD — Early editions omitted “D.M.S.R.” due to 64‑minute CD limit 1983 UK Single‑LP Edition • 1×LP — Warner Bros. — UK • Omitted: “D.M.S.R.”, “Automatic”, “All the Critics Love U…”, “International Lover” • Alternate artwork • Reissued for Record Store Day 2018 1984 UK Full 2×LP Release (This Edition) • Restores full 11‑track running order • Semi‑gloss widespine cover • Poly‑lined printed inner sleeves • Embossed Warner “W” logo • Some copies include 10" Purple Rain promo discography sheet CD Editions 1985 (10 tracks) — “D.M.S.R.” omitted 1991 (11 tracks) — full album restored 1997 (11 tracks) — standard European reissue ✦ — PRODUCTION AND CONTEXT • Produced, arranged, composed, and performed by Prince • Recorded at: – Kiowa Trail Home Studio – Sunset Sound • Mixed by Peggy McCreary • Mastered by Bernie Grundman • First album recorded with The Revolution • Genre fusion: funk, rock, new wave, synth‑pop, R&B • Title track reflects Cold War anxieties and apocalyptic party culture • “Little Red Corvette” became Prince’s first major MTV breakthrough ✦ — SINGLES RELEASED 1999 — 1982 Little Red Corvette — 1983 Delirious — 1983 Let’s Pretend We’re Married — 1983 Automatic — 1983 (Australia only) ✦ — CHART PERFORMANCE United States • Billboard 200 — #9 • R&B Albums — #1 • RIAA — 4× Platinum United Kingdom • UK Albums Chart — #12 (1982) • Re‑entered during Purple Rain era International • Netherlands — #4 • Norway — #4 • Sweden — #5 • Switzerland — #7 • New Zealand — #6 • France — #10 • Germany — #15 • Japan — #12 ✦ — DISCOGRAPHY Controversy — 1981 1999 — 1982 Purple Rain — 1984 ✦ — PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE 1982 — 1999 released (US) 1983 — UK single‑LP edition 1984 — UK full 2×LP reissue 1984 — Purple Rain global breakthrough ✦ — GLAM FLASHBACK 1999 is the sound of Prince stepping boldly into superstardom — a double‑LP of neon funk, synth‑driven futurism, and rock swagger. Its UK reissue in 1984 finally gave Europe the full experience, just as the Purple Rain era was exploding. ✦ — COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, artwork, logos, and related materials referenced or displayed in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. ✦ — SOURCES Prince Vault Discogs Warner Bros. Records catalogue data Billboard archives UK Official Charts Company

✦ — SUMMARY Released April 22, 1985 by Paisley Park Records and Warner Bros., Around the World in a Day marked Prince’s deliberate shift away from the commercial expectations following Purple Rain. Recorded February–December 1984 across multiple studios — including Sunset Sound, Capitol, Paisley Park, and the Flying Cloud Drive Warehouse — the album blends psychedelic pop, rock, soul, and funk into a vibrant, experimental soundscape. Though less commercially dominant than its predecessor, the album was a major success and produced several hit singles, including “Raspberry Beret,” “Paisley Park,” “Pop Life,” and “America.” Its adventurous style and refusal to repeat Purple Rain cemented Prince’s reputation as a fearless, genre‑defying artist. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released April 22, 1985 (Worldwide) • Recorded Feb–Dec 1984 across multiple studios • Genres: psychedelic pop, pop‑rock, psychedelic soul, psychedelic funk • Follow‑up to Purple Rain — intentionally more experimental • Produced four singles, including the global hit “Raspberry Beret” • Length: 42:33 • Produced entirely by Prince ✦ — TRACK DETAILS LP – Paisley Park / Warner Bros. – 1985 Around the World in a Day Paisley Park Condition of the Heart Raspberry Beret Tamborine America Pop Life The Ladder Temptation Total length: 42:33 ✦ — REISSUES & GLOBAL VARIANTS (Verified via Prince Vault, Discogs, Warner Records) 1985 Original Releases • LP — Worldwide • Cassette — Worldwide • CD — Worldwide Later Editions • Standard CD reissues • Digital releases on all major platforms • Vinyl represses in select markets ✦ — PRODUCTION AND CONTEXT • Produced by Prince • Recorded Feb–Dec 1984 at: – Flying Cloud Drive Warehouse (Eden Prairie, MN) – Sunset Sound (Hollywood, CA) – Mobile Audio Studio (St. Paul Civic Center Arena) – Capitol Studios (Los Angeles, CA) – Paisley Park (Minneapolis, MN) • Created immediately after the Purple Rain tour • Prince intentionally avoided repeating the Purple Rain formula • Heavy influence from psychedelia, 60s pop, and spiritual themes ✦ — SINGLES RELEASED Raspberry Beret — May 15, 1985 Paisley Park — May 24, 1985 (EU) Pop Life — July 15, 1985 America — October 2, 1985 ✦ — CHART PERFORMANCE United States • Billboard 200 — Top 10 • “Raspberry Beret” — major worldwide hit International • Strong chart performance across Europe and Oceania ✦ — DISCOGRAPHY Purple Rain — 1984 Around the World in a Day — 1985 Parade — 1986 ✦ — PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE 1984 — Purple Rain dominates charts April 1985 — Around the World in a Day released 1986 — Parade continues the Revolution era ✦ — GLAM FLASHBACK Around the World in a Day is Prince at his most playful and psychedelic — a technicolor swirl of imagination that defied expectations and expanded his artistic universe far beyond the shadow of Purple Rain. ✦ — COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, artwork, logos, and related materials referenced or displayed in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. ✦ — SOURCES Prince Vault Discogs Warner Bros. Records catalogue data Billboard archives

A sparkling fusion of funk, pop, hip‑hop, and new‑era swagger — the rebirth of Prince with the New Power Generation. ✦ — SUMMARY Released October 1, 1991 in the US (Paisley Park / Warner Bros., catalogue 9 25379‑2) and in November 1991 in the UK, Diamonds and Pearls marked the full arrival of Prince and The New Power Generation. The album generated a string of major hits — “Gett Off,” “Cream,” “Money Don’t Matter 2 Night,” “Insatiable,” and the title track — and introduced dancers Diamond (Lori Elle) and Pearl (Robia LaMorte) on its holographic cover. Musically, the album blends Minneapolis funk, hip‑hop‑infused grooves, lush balladry, and polished pop‑rock. It became one of Prince’s biggest commercial successes of the 1990s and set the stage for the NPG’s dominance throughout the decade. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released October 1, 1991 (US) / November 1991 (UK) • First full studio album by Prince and The New Power Generation • Produced five major singles, including the #1 hit “Cream” • Holographic cover featuring Diamond & Pearl (later pressings non‑holographic) • Blend of funk, hip‑hop, R&B, and pop‑rock • Supported by the Diamonds and Pearls Tour • “Willing and Able” featured during CBS’s Super Bowl XXVI broadcast ✦ — TRACK DETAILS 2×LP – Paisley Park / Warner Bros. – 1991 (All songs written by Prince, credited to Prince and The New Power Generation, except where noted.) Side 1 Thunder — 5:45 Daddy Pop — 5:16 Diamonds and Pearls — 4:43 Side 2 Cream — 4:12 Strollin’ — 3:46 Willing and Able — 4:59 (co‑written with Levi Seacer Jr. & Rosie Gaines) Gett Off — 4:31 Side 3 Walk Don’t Walk — 3:07 Jughead — 4:56 (co‑written with Tony M.) Money Don’t Matter 2 Night — 4:46 Push — 5:52 (co‑written with Levi Seacer Jr.) Side 4 Insatiable — 6:39 Live 4 Love — 6:59 (co‑written with Michael B. & Sonny T.) Total length: ~65 minutes ✦ — REISSUES & GLOBAL VARIANTS (Verified via Prince Vault, Discogs, Warner Records) 1991 Original Releases • CD — Paisley Park / Warner Bros. 9 25379‑2 — US • CD — Europe/UK variants • Cassette — Worldwide • 2×LP — Holographic cover (first pressings), later non‑holographic Later Editions • Digital releases on all major platforms • Vinyl represses in Europe and the US • 2023 Super Deluxe Edition (CD/LP/digital) ✦ — PRODUCTION AND CONTEXT • Produced, arranged, composed, and performed by Prince • Recorded 1990–1991 at Paisley Park Studios • First full album with the New Power Generation lineup • Introduced Diamond & Pearl as visual icons of the era • Stylistic blend: funk, hip‑hop, R&B, pop‑rock, ballads • “Willing and Able” featured in CBS’s Super Bowl XXVI closing montage ✦ — SINGLES RELEASED Gett Off — June 1991 Cream — September 1991 (US #1) Insatiable — November 1991 Diamonds and Pearls — November 1991 Money Don’t Matter 2 Night — March 1992 ✦ — CHART PERFORMANCE United States • Billboard 200 — Top 5 • “Cream” — #1 Hot 100 • “Diamonds and Pearls” — Top 5 • RIAA — Multi‑Platinum United Kingdom • UK Albums Chart — Top 3 International • Strong chart performance across Europe and Oceania ✦ — DISCOGRAPHY Graffiti Bridge — 1990 Diamonds and Pearls — 1991 O(+> / The Symbol Album — 1992 ✦ — PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE 1990 — Graffiti Bridge 1991 — Diamonds and Pearls released 1992 — The Symbol Album continues the NPG era ✦ — GLAM FLASHBACK Diamonds and Pearls is Prince stepping boldly into the ’90s — a polished, swaggering, radio‑ready explosion of funk and pop. With the NPG at full power and Diamond & Pearl adding visual flair, the era remains one of his most iconic reinventions. ✦ — COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, artwork, logos, and related materials referenced or displayed in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. ✦ — SOURCES Prince Vault Discogs Warner Bros. Records catalogue data Billboard archives UK Official Charts Company

A raw, guitar‑driven power‑trio statement from Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL — loud, live, and unapologetically electric ✦ — SUMMARY 3RDEYEGIRL’s PLECTRUMELECTRUM was released in the UK on September 26, 2014, by NPG Records through a renewed license with Warner Bros. Records (catalog number 9362‑49333‑5), arriving simultaneously with Prince’s solo album Art Official Age. The project marked Prince’s full‑length debut with 3RDEYEGIRL — Hannah Welton, Donna Grantis, and Ida Nielsen — a tight, high‑energy power trio built for live performance. Critics widely described the album as a return to Prince’s rock roots. Randall Roberts of the Los Angeles Times called it a rock album infused with Prince’s “noble weirdness” and sense of humour. Abigail Covington of The A.V. Club noted its no‑nonsense approach to funk and its grounding in the “shallow shores of rock ’n’ roll’s vast waters.” Rolling Stone’s Jon Dolan described it as “a set of exploratory funk‑rock jams.” The album’s sound reflects Prince’s desire to capture the immediacy of a live band in the studio — loud guitars, tight grooves, and a stripped‑back, analogue‑leaning production aesthetic ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released September 26, 2014 (UK) • Issued by NPG Records under renewed Warner Bros. license • Catalog number: 9362‑49333‑5 • Released the same day as Art Official Age • Prince’s full‑length debut with 3RDEYEGIRL • Critically described as funk‑rock, guitar‑driven, and live‑sounding • Praised for its rawness, humour, and band chemistry ✦ B — TRACK DETAILS Standard Album Tracklist: WOW PRETZELBODYLOGIC AINTTURNINROUND PLECTRUMELECTRUM WHITECAPS FIXURLIFEUP BOYTROUBLE STOPTHISTRAIN ANOTHERLOVE TICTACTOE MARZ FUNKNROLL All tracks produced by Prince and 3RDEYEGIRL. ✦ CHART PERFORMANCE United States • Billboard 200: Top 10 United Kingdom • Top 20 album chart entry Additional chart data varies by region. ✦ SOURCES Press reviews (LA Times, A.V. Club, Rolling Stone) Label release documentation Discogs The Prince Estate announcements ✦ DISCOGRAPHY 3RDEYEGIRL Era Releases: PLECTRUMELECTRUM — Album: 2014 Art Official Age — Album: 2014 (parallel release) HITnRUN Phase One — Album: 2015 HITnRUN Phase Two — Album: 2015 ✦ PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE 2013 — Prince forms 3RDEYEGIRL and begins touring with the trio 2013–2014 — Live shows emphasise guitar‑driven arrangements and raw performance energy Sept. 2014 — PLECTRUMELECTRUM and Art Official Age released simultaneously 2015 — HITnRUN albums continue Prince’s late‑career experimentation ✦ GLAM FLASHBACK PLECTRUMELECTRUM stands apart from Prince’s 2010s output by embracing the immediacy of a live rock band. Where Art Official Age leaned into electronic textures and futuristic R&B, PLECTRUMELECTRUM channels the spirit of Dirty Mind and Controversy’s band‑centric energy, filtered through the precision of a modern power trio. The album highlights Prince’s joy in collaboration, his love of guitar‑driven performance, and his ability to reinvent his sound by surrounding himself with musicians who pushed him into new territory. TRACKLIST: CD Wow (4:27) Pretzelbodylogic (3:26) Aintturninround (3:01) Plectrumelectrum (4:51) 1 Whitecaps (3:42) Fixurlifeup (3:12) Boytrouble (3:52) 2 Stopthistrain (3:40) Anotherlove (4:15) 3 Tictactoe (3:37) Marz (1:48) Funknroll (4:09) Wow (4:27) Pretzelbodylogic (3:26) Aintturninround (3:01) Plectrumelectrum (4:51) Whitecaps (3:42) Fixurlifeup (3:12) Boytrouble (3:52) 2 Stopthistrain (3:40) Anotherlove (4:15) Tictactoe (3:37) Marz (1:48) Funknroll (4:09) Side A: LP A1 Wow (4:27) A2 Pretzelbodylogic (3:26) A3 Aintturninround (3:01) A4 Plectrumelectrum (4:51) A5 Whitecaps (3:42) A6 Fixurlifeup (3:12) Side B: B1 Boytrouble (3:52) 2 B2 Stopthistrain (3:40) B3 Anotherlove (4:15) B4 Tictactoe (3:37) B5 Marz (1:48) B6 Funknroll (4:09)

Prince’s late‑period studio experiment finally arrives on vinyl — a decade after its digital debut and years after its cult status solidified ✦SUMMARY HitNRun Phase One received its first‑ever vinyl release on 30 January 2026, marking a major moment for collectors and fans of Prince’s late‑career output. Originally issued exclusively on Tidal on 7 September 2015, and then on CD via NPG Records on 15 September 2015, the album was part of Prince’s digital‑forward strategy during the mid‑2010s. Its vinyl debut brings renewed attention to a project that blended pop, funk, EDM textures and collaborative energy. The album’s title was initially reported as The Hit & Run Album before Prince’s team confirmed the final name: Hit n Run Phase One. It was followed by Hit n Run Phase Two later in 2015, but Phase One stands apart for its experimental production, guest features and reimagined versions of earlier Prince material. Critical reception at the time was mixed, with reviewers divided over its stylistic shifts and digital sheen. Over time, however, the album has gained appreciation as a snapshot of Prince’s restless creativity during his final years. ✦ HIGHLIGHTS • First‑ever vinyl release: 30 January 2026 • Originally released on Tidal: 7 September 2015 • CD release via NPG Records: 15 September 2015 • Title confirmed as Hit n Run Phase One • Mixed critical reception (Metacritic score: 53) • Features Judith Hill, Rita Ora, Curly Fryz, Lianne La Havas and 3RDEYEGIRL • Includes reworked elements of classic Prince tracks ✦ TRACKLISTING & CREDITS Side One Million $ Show Arranged By (Horns), Producer (Horns), Recorded By (Horns): Michael B. Nelson Arranged By (Strings): Adi Yeshaya Featuring: Judith Hill Horns: The Hornheads Recorded By (Strings): Rob Genadek Strings: Stringenius Shut This Down Ain’t About 2 Stop Backing Vocals: 3RDEYEGIRL Featuring: Rita Ora Lead Guitar: Donna Grantis Like A Mack Featuring: Curly Fryz Horns: NPG Hornz Horns (NPG Hornz): Joey Rayfield, Keith Anderson, Lynn Grisset, Marcus Anderson This Could B Us Side Two Fallinlove2nite Arranged By (Horns), Producer (Horns), Recorded By (Horns): Michael B. Nelson Arranged By (Strings): Adi Yeshaya Horns: The Hornheads Recorded By (Strings): Rob Genadek Strings: Stringenius X’s Face Hardrocklover Mr. Nelson Featuring: Lianne La Havas 1000 X’s & O’s June ✦ NOTES • Million $ Show incorporates elements of earlier Prince songs: For You (1978), 1999 (1982) and Let’s Go Crazy (1984). • 1000 X’s & O’s is listed as 1000’s of X’s & O’s on the CD edition. ✦ CRITICAL RECEPTION Hit n Run Phase One received mixed reviews upon release. Metacritic assigned the album a score of 53 based on 16 mainstream reviews, reflecting divided opinions on its digital production style and experimental structure. Over time, the album has been reassessed as a bold, transitional work showcasing Prince’s late‑period curiosity and collaborative spirit. ✦ SOURCES Album release documentation Label archives Wikipedia Discogs Collector and marketplace references

Prince and The Revolution’s landmark 1984 soundtrack enters the Dolby Atmos era with a stunning high‑resolution Blu‑ray edition ✦ — SUMMARY Released in the USA and Europe on 25 April 2025 by Warner Records / NPG Records (catalogue: BD2 25110 / 603497815777), this Blu‑ray Audio edition brings Prince and The Revolution’s Purple Rain into the world of immersive sound. Newly mixed in Dolby Atmos (48kHz / 24bit) and accompanied by a 96kHz / 24bit HD stereo master, the release presents the iconic soundtrack in its most expansive and audiophile‑focused form to date. Housed in a Blu‑ray folder DigiPak with an eight‑page booklet, the edition includes lyrics, credits and restored artwork. Manufactured in Germany, the release forms part of the ongoing archival restoration of Prince’s catalogue, offering fans a definitive high‑resolution experience of one of the most influential albums of the 1980s. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released 25 April 2025 (USA & Europe) • Dolby Atmos mix (48kHz / 24bit) • HD stereo mix (96kHz / 24bit) • Blu‑ray folder DigiPak with booklet • Catalogue: BD2 25110 / 603497815777 • Mixed at Sunset Sound and CJP • Atmos mix by Charles F. Spicer Jr. and Chris James • Mastered at Coast Mastering • Includes full 9‑track Purple Rain soundtrack ✦ — TRACKLISTING (Dolby Atmos & HD Stereo) Let’s Go Crazy — 4:41 Take Me With U — 3:53 The Beautiful Ones — 5:13 Computer Blue — 3:58 Darling Nikki — 4:14 When Doves Cry — 5:53 I Would Die 4 U — 2:49 Baby I’m a Star — 4:22 Purple Rain — 8:44 ✦ — PRODUCTION & CONTEXT Recorded at The Warehouse (St. Louis Park), Sunset Sound, First Avenue and Record Plant (NYC). Mixed at Sunset Sound and CJP. Mastered at Coast Mastering (Berkeley, CA). Atmos Mix Production • Produced by Charles F. Spicer Jr. and Chris James • Assisted by Alex Miller, Christian Matthew Cullen and Rick Hackley Original Mastering • Bernie Grundman Artwork • Art direction by Prince • Rain image by James Goble • Cover photography by Ed Thrasher & Associates / Slenzak Additional Details • Blu‑ray DigiPak with 8‑page booklet • Made in Germany • Hype sticker: “AUDIOPHILE BLU‑RAY – THE ICONIC 1984 ALBUM MIXED IN DOLBY ATMOS – ALSO INCLUDES 24bit / 96kHz HD STEREO – BD2 25110 / 603497815777” • Rights Societies: GEMA/BIEM, GMR ✦— LEGACY Purple Rain remains Prince’s magnum opus — a fusion of rock, funk, pop and cinematic drama that defined 1984 and reshaped popular music. This 2025 Blu‑ray edition brings the album into the immersive audio age, revealing new layers, textures and spatial detail while preserving the emotional power of the original mixes. For audiophiles, collectors and lifelong fans, this release stands as the most technologically advanced presentation of Purple Rain ever issued. ✦ PRINCE 1984 MINI‑TIMELINE — THE PURPLE RAIN ERA ✦ January–March 1984 Prince completes the Purple Rain soundtrack, blending studio recordings with live performances from First Avenue. ✦ June 1984 When Doves Cry becomes a global hit, setting the stage for the album’s release. ✦ 25 June 1984 Purple Rain (album) is released, spending 24 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. ✦ July 1984 Purple Rain (film) premieres, becoming a cultural phenomenon and earning Prince an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. ✦ 2025 The soundtrack receives its first Dolby Atmos Blu‑ray release, bringing the album into a new era of immersive listening. This period captures Prince at the height of his creative power — redefining music, film and performance in a single stroke. ✦ GLAM FLASHBACK — PURPLE RAIN (1984 STEREO) VS. PURPLE RAIN (2025 ATMOS) ✦ 1984 Stereo Mix • Dense, emotional, iconic • Mixed for vinyl, cassette and early CD • Layered production with limited spatial separation • The definitive sound of the Purple Rain era ✦ 2025 Dolby Atmos Mix • Expansive, immersive, three‑dimensional • Reveals buried details and instrumental nuances • Sunset Sound chambers recreated for authenticity • Vocals, guitars and synths gain new clarity and depth Together, the two versions show how Purple Rain continues to evolve — from a landmark stereo recording to a modern immersive experience that honours Prince’s original vision while expanding its sonic universe. ✦ SOURCES Personal archive knowledge Prince Vault Discogs AllMusic Rate Your Music Wikipedia BBC Official Charts Company Super Deluxe Edition interview with Chris James

Prince’s ambitious 1990 soundtrack returns in a newly remastered CD edition — a kaleidoscope of funk, pop, rock and spiritual storytelling SUMMARY Released in the US in 2024 by NPG Records / Warner Records (catalogue: R2 27493 / 603497837663), this CD reissue brings Prince’s 1990 soundtrack Graffiti Bridge back into circulation with refreshed audio and restored artwork. The 17‑track album blends pop rock, funk, soul, contemporary R&B, pop‑rap and cinematic elements, serving as both a sequel to Purple Rain and a bridge into Prince’s 1990s sound. Originally conceived as a multimedia project — film, soundtrack and narrative universe — Graffiti Bridge features contributions from The Time, Tevin Campbell, Mavis Staples and George Clinton. The 2024 edition preserves the eclecticism and spiritual ambition of the original release while offering improved clarity and presence. --- HIGHLIGHTS • Released 2024 (US CD reissue) • Catalogue: R2 27493 / 603497837663 • Remastered edition of the 1990 soundtrack • 17‑track album blending funk, rock, R&B and pop‑rap • Features The Time, Tevin Campbell, Mavis Staples and George Clinton • Made in USA (back cover) / Germany (CD) --- TRACKLISTING Can’t Stop This Feeling I Got New Power Generation Release It The Question of U Elephants & Flowers Round and Round We Can Funk Joy in Repetition Love Machine Tick, Tick, Bang Shake! Thieves in the Temple The Latest Fashion Melody Cool Still Would Stand All Time — 5:23 Graffiti Bridge New Power Generation (Pt. II) --- PRODUCTION & CONTEXT Produced, arranged, composed and performed by Prince. Art direction: Tom Recchion Cover illustration: Steve Parke Logos: Margo Chase Prince portraits: Bob McNamara Graffiti Bridge was originally released in 1990 as both a soundtrack and a narrative continuation of Purple Rain. Recorded between 1987 and 1990, the album spans genres and themes — from spiritual introspection to Minneapolis funk revival — and marks Prince’s transition into the New Power Generation era. The 2024 CD reissue preserves the original sequencing and artwork while offering a refreshed master for modern listeners. --- — LEGACY Graffiti Bridge stands as one of Prince’s most eclectic and spiritually charged works — a colourful blend of funk grooves, rock energy, pop hooks and cinematic ambition. Though the film divided critics, the soundtrack has grown in stature, with tracks like Joy in Repetition, The Question of U and Thieves in the Temple now regarded as essential Prince classics. The 2024 CD edition reintroduces the album to a new generation, reaffirming its place as a pivotal moment between the 1980s and the dawn of the NPG era. --- ✦ PRINCE 1990 MINI‑TIMELINE — THE GRAFFITI BRIDGE ERA ✦ Early 1990 Prince completes work on the Graffiti Bridge film and soundtrack, blending new material with songs dating back to the late 1980s. ✦ August 1990 Graffiti Bridge is released as Prince’s twelfth studio album and film soundtrack, featuring collaborations with The Time, Tevin Campbell, Mavis Staples and George Clinton. ✦ Late 1990 Thieves in the Temple becomes a major hit, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the R&B chart. ✦ 1990–1991 The New Power Generation emerges as Prince’s new band identity, shaping the sound of the coming decade. ✦ 2024 Graffiti Bridge receives a remastered CD reissue, bringing renewed attention to one of Prince’s most ambitious projects. This period captures Prince at a creative crossroads — blending spirituality, funk, narrative storytelling and the early DNA of the NPG. --- ✦ GLAM FLASHBACK — GRAFFITI BRIDGE (1990 ORIGINAL) VS. GRAFFITI BRIDGE (2024 CD REISSUE) ✦ 1990 Original Release • Bold, eclectic, genre‑blending soundtrack • Mixes film narrative with standalone songs • Early NPG energy emerging • Classic tracks like Joy in Repetition and The Question of U gain cult status ✦ 2024 CD Reissue • Refreshed audio with improved clarity • Restored artwork and credits • Reintroduces the album to modern listeners • Highlights the album’s spiritual and experimental depth Together, the two versions show how Graffiti Bridge continues to evolve — from a misunderstood soundtrack to a celebrated cornerstone of Prince’s transition into the 1990s. --- ✦ SOURCES Personal archive knowledge Prince Vault Discogs AllMusic Rate Your Music Wikipedia BBC Official Charts Company ---

Prince and The Revolution’s psychedelic masterpiece returns in a newly remastered, multi‑format 40th anniversary edition — celebrating the era of Paisley Park, pop experimentation and some of Prince’s most iconic singles ✦ — SUMMARY Around the World in a Day was reissued on November 21, 2025 via Rhino to mark the album’s 40th anniversary. Originally released in 1985, the album followed the global success of Purple Rain and showcased Prince’s shift toward psychedelic pop, Middle Eastern textures, and richly layered studio experimentation. The reissue campaign featured a newly remastered version of the album by Bernie Grundman, alongside expanded 2CD and 3LP deluxe editions containing B‑sides, remixes and the near 22‑minute version of America. A limited blue marbled vinyl pressing was also issued, alongside standard black vinyl and a single‑disc CD edition. While the album produced major hits such as Raspberry Beret, Paisley Park, Pop Life and America, their chart performance varied widely across territories. Raspberry Beret reached No. 2 in the US but only No. 25 in the UK, where Paisley Park performed better at No. 18. Pop Life was a US top 10 hit but stalled at No. 60 in Britain. Despite its critical acclaim, the album did not reach No. 1 in the UK — a milestone Prince would not achieve until Lovesexy in 1988. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released 21 November 2025 (40th Anniversary Reissue) • Newly remastered by Bernie Grundman • Available in 2CD Deluxe, 3LP Deluxe, blue marbled vinyl, black vinyl and single CD • Deluxe editions include B‑sides, remixes and the 22‑minute America • Dolby Atmos mix created (no Blu‑ray included) • Celebrates the era of Raspberry Beret, Paisley Park, Pop Life and America ✦ — FORMAT BREAKDOWN ✦ 2CD DELUXE EDITION CD 1 — Around the World in a Day (2025 Remaster) Around the World in a Day (3:25) Paisley Park (4:41) Condition of the Heart (6:46) Raspberry Beret (3:31) Tamborine (2:46) America (3:40) Pop Life (3:42) The Ladder (5:26) Temptation (8:21) Bonus Track America (12" Version) (21:46) CD 2 — B‑Sides & Bonus Tracks (2025 Remaster) Raspberry Beret (New Mix) (6:36) She’s Always in My Hair (7" Version) (3:25) She’s Always in My Hair (New Mix) (6:32) Paisley Park (Remix) (6:53) Pop Life (Fresh Dance Mix) (6:16) Pop Life (Extended Version) (9:07) Hello (7" Version) (3:24) Hello (Fresh Dance Mix) (6:12) Girl (7" Version) (3:57) Girl (12" Version) (7:36) 4 the Tears in Your Eyes (We Are the World Version) (2:45) 4 the Tears in Your Eyes (Hits/B‑Sides Version) (3:23) ✦ BLUE MARBLED VINYL Around the World in a Day (2025 Remaster) Side A Around the World in a Day Paisley Park Condition of the Heart Raspberry Beret Tamborine Side B America Pop Life The Ladder Temptation ✦ 3LP BLACK VINYL DELUXE EDITION LP 1 — Album (2025 Remaster) Side A Around the World in a Day Paisley Park Condition of the Heart Raspberry Beret Tamborine Side B America Pop Life The Ladder Temptation LP 2 — B‑Sides & Bonus Tracks Side C Raspberry Beret (New Mix) She’s Always in My Hair (New Mix) Paisley Park (Remix) Side D Pop Life (Fresh Dance Mix) Pop Life (Extended Version) LP 3 — B‑Sides & Bonus Tracks Side E Hello (Fresh Dance Mix) Girl (12" Version) 4 the Tears in Your Eyes (We Are the World Version) 4 the Tears in Your Eyes (Hits/B‑Sides Version) Side F America (12" Version) (21:46) ✦ BLACK VINYL LP Side A Around the World in a Day Paisley Park Condition of the Heart Raspberry Beret Tamborine Side B America Pop Life The Ladder Temptation ✦ SINGLE CD Around the World in a Day (2025 Remaster) Full 9‑track album ✦ — NOTES • The 3LP and 2CD deluxe editions do not share identical bonus content. • The 22‑minute America is exclusive to the deluxe formats. • Dolby Atmos mix created, but no Blu‑ray edition included. • Blue marbled vinyl was a limited pressing. ✦ — SOURCES Label release documentation Rhino Records announcements Wikipedia Discogs Collector and marketplace references

A spiritual, ecstatic rebirth — Prince’s radiant answer to the darkness of The Black Album. ✦ — SUMMARY Released May 10, 1988 by Paisley Park Records and Warner Bros. Records, Lovesexy emerged just months after Prince cancelled the infamous Black Album. Recorded in only seven weeks at the newly completed Paisley Park Studios, the album channels themes of positivity, rebirth, spirituality, and divine love. Despite strong critical acclaim, Lovesexy became Prince’s first album since Controversy (1981) to miss the US Top 10, peaking at #11 on the Billboard 200. Internationally, however, it was a major success, reaching #1 in the UK, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and New Zealand. The album produced three singles — “Alphabet St.”, “Glam Slam”, and “I Wish U Heaven” — and was supported by the ambitious Lovesexy Tour, including the iconic Dortmund concert broadcast across Europe. ✦ — HIGHLIGHTS • Released May 10, 1988 (Worldwide) • Recorded in seven weeks at Paisley Park Studios • Themes: spirituality, positivity, rebirth, divine love • US Billboard 200 peak: #11 • #1 in UK, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, New Zealand • Three singles: “Alphabet St.”, “Glam Slam”, “I Wish U Heaven” • Original CD issued as one continuous track • Followed by the elaborate Lovesexy Tour ✦ — TRACK DETAILS Vinyl LP – Paisley Park / Warner Bros. – 1988 Side A Eye No Alphabet St. Glam Slam Anna Stesia Side B Dance On Lovesexy (often mislabeled as “Positivity” in some early sources) When 2 R In Love I Wish U Heaven Positivity Total length: ~45 minutes Original CD Version (1988) Presented as one continuous 45:03 track with no index breaks. Songs flow seamlessly in this order: Eye No → Alphabet St. → Glam Slam → Anna Stesia → Dance On → Lovesexy → When 2 R In Love → I Wish U Heaven → Positivity Index points (unlisted on disc): 00:00 — Eye No 05:45 — Alphabet St. 11:25 — Glam Slam 16:30 — Anna Stesia 21:30 — Dance On 25:14 — Lovesexy 31:04 — When 2 R In Love 35:03 — I Wish U Heaven 37:46 — Positivity Most later CD issues retain the “continuous sequence” note but include individual track indexing. ✦ — REISSUES & GLOBAL VARIANTS (Verified via Prince Vault, Discogs, Warner Records) 1988 Original Releases • LP — Paisley Park / Warner Bros. — Worldwide • Cassette — Worldwide • CD — Single continuous track (US/Europe/Japan) Later Reissues • Standard CD reissues with indexed tracks • Digital releases on all major platforms • Vinyl represses in select markets ✦ — PRODUCTION AND CONTEXT • Written, produced, arranged, and performed by Prince • Recorded December 1987 – January 1988 at Paisley Park • Created immediately after cancelling The Black Album • Strong spiritual and redemptive themes • Lovesexy Tour featured elaborate staging and choreography • Dortmund 1988 show released on VHS/LaserDisc and broadcast in Europe ✦ — SINGLES RELEASED Alphabet St. — April 1988 Glam Slam — July 11, 1988 I Wish U Heaven — September 20, 1988 ✦ — CHART PERFORMANCE United States • Billboard 200 — #11 • RIAA — Gold (Dec 1988) International • UK Albums Chart — #1 • Netherlands — #1 • Sweden — #1 • Switzerland — #1 • New Zealand — #1 ✦ — DISCOGRAPHY SIDEBAR The Black Album — 1987 (withdrawn) Lovesexy — 1988 Batman — 1989 ✦ — PRINCE ERA MINI‑TIMELINE Dec 1987 — The Black Album cancelled Jan 1988 — Lovesexy completed May 1988 — Lovesexy released Sept 1988 — Dortmund concert broadcast 1989 — Batman soundtrack ✦ — GLAM FLASHBACK Lovesexy is Prince’s radiant spiritual manifesto — a technicolor burst of joy, faith, and liberation. Born from crisis and completed at lightning speed, it remains one of his most uplifting and musically adventurous statements. ✦ — COPYRIGHT NOTICE All images, artwork, logos, and related materials referenced or displayed in this entry remain the property of their respective copyright holders. They are included strictly for historical, educational, and archival purposes under fair‑use principles. ✦ — SOURCES Prince Vault Discogs Warner Bros. Records catalogue data RIAA certifications UK Official Charts Company Did you have Lovesexy on vinyl in your collection? Were you ready for Prince's spiritual funk trip? Share in the comments! Sources Information is drawn from my personal knowledge and supplemented by web sources, including Prince Vault, Discogs, 45cat, AllMusic, Rate Your Music, Wikipedia and BBC Official Charts Company