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News from late 1996-1997

Here follows excerpts from UPTOWN's news section as published in UPTOWN #26 (October 1996), UPTOWN #27 (January 1997), UPTOWN #28 (April 1997), UPTOWN #29 (July 1997), UPTOWN #30 (October 1997), UPTOWN #31 (January 1998), and UPTOWN #32 (March 1998).

© 1998 UPTOWN. This page last updated November 3rd 1998.

The Emancipation album and singles...

The album was released worldwide on November 18th and 19th 1996 by EMI Records.

In the USA, EMI/NPG Records released a "clean" version of The Artist's triple CD album Emancipation that doesn't bear the "Parental Advisory" sticker and includes "edited" versions of the songs that use offensive words, like "Face Down" and "Da, Da, Da" (similarly to the "clean" version of the The Artist album that was released in 1992): catalogue number 724385506321 – regular version, cat.no. 724385498220 – clean version. European cat.no. 8549822 (regular version).

The Emancipation promo sampler CD is available "For Retail Listening Stations" and contains snippets from all 36 tracks. The catalogue number is: 7087 611658 21 AV.

The first European single release from the Emancipation album was "Betcha By Golly Wow!" The B-side was "Right Back Here In My Arms." Three commercial single formats are available in Europe. All of these contain the album versions of the two songs: cat.no. 8 83541 2 – cardboard sleeve, cat.no. 8 83560 2 – plastic box, cat.no. 8 835612 – limited edition pack with poster. The European promotional CD single is a "pictue disc" with cat.no. cdbetcha 001 containing only "Betcha By Golly Wow!"

The first US single was also "Betcha By Golly Wow!" on November 13th 1996. But, it was only released to radio and TV stations, serving to promote the album. This one-track US "promo picture" CD has cat.no. DPRO11657.

There will be no commercial singles from Emancipation available in the US.

The video for "Betcha By Golly Wow!" contains footage of The Artist as well as Olympic gymnastics champion Dominique Dawes with dancers at Paisley Park. It also includes sequences with The Artist and Mayte at a hospital.

An alternative video containing nothing more than the complete The Artist performance scenes used for the normal one, was supplied to the British TV show Top Of The Pops on November 15th.

The next two US promo singles off Emancipation are "The Holy River" and "Somebody's Somebody," released on January 13th 1997 to US radio stations. "The Holy River" single was delivered to pop radio, while "Somebody's Somebody" is targeted at urban/R&B radio stations.

The "Holy River" promo CD-single contains two tracks: "Album Version" (6:55) and "Radio Version" (4:00). The catalogue number is DPRO 11664/ 7087 611664 22.

The "Somebody's Somebody" promo CD-single contains two tracks: "Album Version" (4:44) and "Radio Version" (4:30). The catalogue number is: DPRO 11662/ 7087 611664 24.

Directed by the Artist, the "Somebody's Somebody" video consists mostly of live footage from the Love 4 One Another Charities Tour. There is a theme of The Artist missing Mayte, with clips of him staring at her on his shirt hanging up and several shots of him dreaming about her. Some of the footage included in the video was shot at Paisley Park on January 24th, at 1:00 am. According to a fan who was in attendance, "they shot different clips of The Artist wandering through the Love 4 One Another room and clips of girls dancing to the music." The video clip also includes footage from the Roseland concert in New York on January 11th.

The video for "The Holy River", which was delivered to EMI US on March 19th, features the Paisley Park stage (as in the "Betcha By Golly Wow!" video), but this time painted like a river and with "Adam and Eve"-type scenes. Some old footage of Mayte dancing and scenes from the unreleased "Empty Room" video are featured in the new video. It was directed by The Artist and shows him going through some of the struggles that are mentioned in some parts of the song.

The second CD-single off Emancipation in the UK and Europe was released on February 24th. In the UK, it is a two-part CD-single (much in the same way as the "Peach" single released in 1993). Both singles feature new tracks.

"The Holy River"/"Somebody's Somebody"– part 1 of 2 (catalogue number 7243 8 83765 2 5) contains "The Holy River [Radio Edit]"– 4:30, "Somebody's Somebody [Edit]"– 4:30, "Somebody's Somebody [Livestudio Mix]"– 3:47, and "Somebody's Somebody [Ultrafantasy Edit)]"– 3:45.

"The Holy River"/"Somebody's Somebody"– part 2 of 2 (catalogue number 7243 8 83760 2 0) contains "The Holy River [Radio Edit]"– 4:00, "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World [Mustang Mix]"– 6:19, "Somebody's Somebody [Radio Edit]"– 4:30, and "On Sale Now"– 0:48.

A sole CD single was also released in Europe on February 24th 1997 (catalogue number 7243 8 83724 2 8), featuring the tracks from the "CD 1 of 2" of the UK release. There is also a two-track CD-single in a pochette with the first two tracks only (catalogue number 7243 8 83723 2 9).

The "On Sale Now" track is a humorous short piece featuring The Artist calling 1-800-NEW-FUNK to order some Emancipation merchandise. The new 'Ultrafantasy' version of "Somebody's Somebody" includes some additional lyrics like, "Inside of me, there's a fire burning. I'm ready for the ultra fantasy," and, "It's all alone, me and my telephone just trying to make this phone call." Bassist Rhonda Smith can be heard saying, "Can't you see my yearning?" and answering the phone with (recorded message), "Hey, this is Rhonda, I can't come to the phone right now but if you leave your name." The remix also features lots of scratching and a keyboard solo reminiscent of "Space." It also features newly recorded vocals. The 'Livestudio' version sounds like a "live studio" re-recording of the song by The Artist and the live NPG with some vocal overdubs (possibly sampled). It sounds quite similar to the live version that was played on the Rosie O'Donnell show in January. It also features some new lyrics.

There is a promo picture-CD in the UK containing "The Holy River [Radio Edit]." The catalogue number is CDEMDJ 467. Another promo CD-single of "The Holy River" has been issued in Europe. It is a two-track promo CD with a picture sleeve (catalogue number CDHOLYDJ-001), containing the album version (6:55) and the 'Radio Edit' version (4:00).

The promo items in the US are the following:

"The Holy River" (catalogue number DPRO 11664 7087-6-11664-2-2) contains 'Album Version' 6:55, 'Radio Edit Version' 4:00.
"Somebody's Somebody" (catalogue number DPRO 11662 7087-6-11662-2-4) contains 'Album Version' 4:44, 'Radio Edit Version' 4:30.
"Somebody's Somebody" (catalogue number DPRO 11672 7087-6-11672-2-1) contains 'Livestudio Mix' - 3:47, 'Ultrafantasy Mix' 3:45, "On Sale Now" 0:48.
"Somebody's Somebody" 12" maxi-single (catalogue number NPG 11672 WLP) contains 'Ultrafantasy Edit,' 'Radio Edit,' "Livestudio Mix" 3:47.

1,000 copies only of yet another promo CD5 single containing the "Radio Edit" version of "The Holy River" were issued in Holland under the catalog number P519 773. The single consists of a slim-line jewel case with a white insert with the The Artist symbol in orange and the title in black. The disc itself is not a picture disc, just a blank disc with writing.

Yet another promo CD of "The Holy River" was made in Holland. It contains "The Holy River" (Radio Edit 4:00) and is a 1,000-copy limited edition. The catalogue number is P 519 773. It is a promo CDS in custom sleeve with insert.

Emancipation on the charts...

The Emancipation album debuted at number 11 on Billboard's pop chart on November 27th. The triple-CD set spent a total of 21 weeks on Billboard's Top 200 album chart in the US. The album spent 24 weeks on the Top 100 R&B album chart. As reported in our previous issue, more than 666,666 units were shipped to record stores, meaning that the album has reached double-platinum status. When the album dropped off the album charts in the second half of April, about 500,000 units had actually been sold, according to SoundScan.

The Emancipation triple-CD set re-entered the US Top 100 R&B charts on the week of September 20th at #99, no doubt due to the success of the Jam Of The Year tour. The album dropped out of the chart again the following week.

The album entered the UK charts at number 8. However, it dropped out of the Top 40 the following week. Sales elsewhere in Europe have not been too strong, which is perhaps to be expected as it is a three-CD set. Still, "Betcha By Golly Wow!" has received a fair amount of airplay in many countries.

On the SoundScan sales charts (used in Billboard) Emancipation has topped the 400,000 unit mark, with total US sales of 462,100 units as of April 3rd. The album reached platinum status on January 31st, 1997 (meaning that it sold more than 333,333 copies, because each copy of the album sold counts as three).

However, the RIAA states that Emancipation reached double-platinum status in February 1997 (i.e. sales of more than 666,666 units) in the USA alone. The RIAA actually compiles the total of units shipped to the stores. Reuters issued a press release about album sales for the month of February stating, among other things, that this is The Artist's first multi-platinum album since Diamonds And Pearls was certified in 1992. It said certifications were calculated by the independent accounting firm of Gelfand, Rennert & Feldman.

There appears to be some confusion between the notion of "units sold" and "units shipped" (i.e. sold to the stores). Also, it should be noted that SoundScan only compiles sales data from a number of major US retailers, not all American record stores. The double-platinum status of Emancipation was celebrated by EMI executives who threw an exclusive, star-studded party in New York on February 28th.

"The Holy River" promo cassette...

In early May, the Borders Books and Music US store chain started sponsoring a giveaway of a promotional cassette single of "The Holy River" with any purchase (cat. no. 4PRO-11690). The first track on the tape is the edited single version of "The Holy River" (4:00), while the second track is the unreleased "Welcome 2 The Dawn" (acoustic version) (3:17).

The cassette jacket states that "Welcome 2 The Dawn" is "from the 4thcoming experience The Dawn." The track is however part of the track list for the The Truth album. "Welcome 2 The Dawn" is a beautiful acoustic song with many vocal overdubs and sound effects, including the "talking guitar" sound effect already used in the "This Is Not Music, This Is A Trip" remix of "Alphabet St." back in 1988.

"Face Down" video...

The "Face Down" video was directed by "Azifwekare" (a.k.a. The Artist himself) and was premiered on Canada's MuchMusic music TV station on June 5th on the occasion of The Artist's show in Toronto (Kathleen Dyson and Rhonda Smith were also interviewed on TV). The video depicts The Artist's former "Prince" self's burial office in a mock church.

All members of The NPG play various roles. The Artist himself can be seen face down in the coffin sporting one of the 1992-era concert outfits. He also plays the widow, whose face is hidden behind a dark veil and is only revealed at the very end of the video. The widow has Mayte's puppy on her lap, hinting that it might be Mayte, which of course is not the case. The Artist is also shown dancing and allegedly playing the violin (during the "Orchestra!" part of the song) and the saxophone.

The video is interspersed with another black-and-white scene featuring The Artist as the patient and Kathleen Dyson as the psycho-analyst. Morris Hayes with blond hair and Kirk Johnson can be seen as friends mourning and instrument players. The video also features many dancers and some extras, but no crowd scenes. Overall, it is a much more playful video than The Artist's other recent ones.

EMI Records is shut down...

EMI's US music label EMI Records, which is the label that released Emancipation, has been shut down as part of a restructuring of the whole EMD entertainment conglomerate. Most current artists on the label have been picked up by other labels owned by EMD, including Capitol and Virgin Records. What impact this restructuring will have on The Artist's current "deal" with EMI is not known as of yet.

"Face Down" new single off Emancipation...

"Face Down" was expected to be the next single off Emancipation and a promo single featuring remixes was released in Europe in July. However, following the demise of the EMI Records label, The Artist decided to stop promoting the Emancipation album and "Face Down" was not released as a commercial single in Europe or elsewhere.

In Europe, EMI has a promo cassette featuring three tracks: 1. clean album version 2. extended rap money mix 3. instrumental money mix. The cassette has no catalog number on the tape, just a white inlay with blue EMI as background and the tracks printed over it. On the cassette is a white label with in print "The Artist."

On May 9th, The Artist's Internet messenger sent out a message stating that NPG Records is going to release a new 9-track single including a "clean version" and remixes of "Face Down," two remixes of "The Holy River" [probably the ones that were previewed during recent Paisley Park parties] and more. The full track list reads as follows:

"Face Down" The Remix EP: clean album version/ x-tended rap money mix/ 1-800 newfunkhouse mix/ instrumental money mix/ acapella face/ Eye Can't Make U Love Me [edit]/ the holy river remix/ the holy river dirtyhousemix/ emancipation medley.

It has also been reported that radio stations in the USA are to be serviced with a Depro copy of "Eye Can't Make U Love Me," probably as part of a strategy to maintain a high profile for The Artist at the time a US tour is announced.

A UK promo of "Face Down" is a white-labelled 12" record in a black sleeve with sticker (SPRO-11698). It contains: "X-Tended Rap Money Mix," "Instrumental Money Mix," "Eye Can't Make U Love Me," and "A Capella." There also exists a US "Eye Can't Make U Love Me" CD promo with an Emancipation sleeve (DPRO-11699). It is a radio edit of the song (3:54 minutes).

Total freedom...

Following the demise of the EMI Record label, The Artist decided to stop promoting the Emancipation triple-album and to focus instead on the release of the new Crystal Ball collection and The Truth acoustic album through the 1-800-NEW-FUNK service and the Love 4 One Another web site.

While The Artist does not reject the idea of a distribution deal with a major record company for future releases, he is firmly attached to his new-found freedom and will never relinquish ownership of his own releases again. He seems to be committed to promoting the "emancipation" of artists (especially black artists) from corporate "enslavement" and vows to collaborate with those enjoying a freedom similar to his, such as Larry Graham, for example. He also wants to use new technologies and the Internet to their fullest potential and he is making moves in that direction.

If The Artist succeeds, the measure of "success" being now very different from what it used to be, he will be the first major recording artist to make such a bold move and will definitely set an important example for other artists. The Artist's new "marketing strategy" has attracted attention from various media outlets, including the New York Times.

Paisley Park jamming...

the Artist and his new band played a relaxed one-hour set in a small room at Paisley Park on October 25th 1996. At a Greazy Meal concert earlier that night at the Fine Line, cards saying "1 am Love 4 One Another" were handed out. The doors opened at 1:20 am and The Artist started at about 1:35 am.

The band was comprised of Kathleen Dyson on guitar, Rhonda Smith on guitar, Morris Hayes on keyboards, and Kirk Johnson on drums. Throughout, The Artist took several breaks to go and sit at the side of the stage and sip on tea. The set list was: "Talkin' Loud Sayin' Nothing"/ "Purple Rain"/ "Jam Of The Year"/ "Get Yo Groove On" – "Six"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "Starfish And Coffee"/ "Face Down"/ "One Of Us"/ "The Cross"/ unknown song (noone seems to have recognized the last song).

Meeting DJ's and more jamming...

On October 26th, The Artist and EMI held a combined listening party/press conference at Paisley Park for radio DJ's and media people from all over the US. The Artist gave them a tour of the studio complex before sitting down in the control room in one of the studios to play selected cuts from Emancipation, some in full and others only excerpts. The ones he played in full were the ones he was most "proud of" and is planning to release as singles.

Next, The Artist came into the room to answer questions from the guests. He talked about the first single, "Betcha By Golly Wow!," explaining why he chose the song. He said he wanted to do covers so the original artists could get their fair due of money. He also talked about his deal with EMI, which he seemed pretty excited about. He promised to be accessible to everyone and do whatever it takes to promote and sell the new record.

After disappearing for 15 minutes, The Artist returned for a 45-minute set. The real surprise was the inclusion of "Joy In Repetition" (the 1986 song which ended up on Graffiti Bridge). The set featured: "Talkin' Loud Sayin' Nothing"/ "Purple Rain"/ "Jam Of The Year"/ "Get Yo Groove On" – "Six"/ "Joy In Repetition"/ "The Cross"/ "One Of Us"/ "Sexy MF"/ "If I Was Your Girlfriend."

Meanwhile, fans had gathered outside and they could hear The Artist play inside the building. At around 12:45 am there were already 20 to 30 people standing in line but the doors did not open until 2:00 am. Half an hour later, The Artist and his band kicked off a brief 30-minute set (playing in the same room as the previous night).

the Artist came out with a paper in his hand, which he put on a music stand. He started to read the words to the song, which turned out to be "Joy In Repetition." Before launching into the guitar solo, he picked up the music stand and threw it across the stage. During the intro to "One Of Us," The Artist asked the crowd, "Do you believe in God?" and "Where are you gonna go after you die?" The Artist seemed sort of distracted throughout, like something was weighing heavily on his mind; he appeared to be somewhere else mentally. The set was: "Joy In Repetition"/ "The Cross"/ "One Of Us"/ "Sexy MF"/ "If I Was Your Girlfriend."

Trip to Japan...

the Artist went on a promotional trip to Japan at the end of October. He talked to press and media (including doing a TV interview).

"The Freedom Day" concert...

On November 12th at 11:30 pm an "Emancipation special," including a live performance, was simulcast from Paisley Park around the globe to radio and television. MTV broadcast the special live in the US, while MTV Europe broadcast the performance on November 23rd.

The special started with the video premiere of "Betcha By Golly Wow!," which was followed by a 25-minute live performance, starting with a pre-recorded intro from "Slave" with a choir chanting "free at last!" and dancers emulating the Sign O' The Times tour marching drum intro. This ended with a sample from Martin Luther King Jr.'s "free at last" speech, all while the laser lights formed the word "Emancipation" at the back screens.

the Artist came on stage and started "Jam Of The Year." The Artist was dressed in purple and seemed quite relaxed and happy during the whole live performance, which featured a lot of pre-recorded music although ¤'s lead vocals and guitar appeared to be live throughout. He took his white symbol guitar and played "Purple Rain" as the second song. He only did the first verse and chorus before ending it with the familiar guitar solo and singalong portion. He dropped the guitar as The NPG Hornz entered for the next song, "Get Yo Groove On." A bit later into the song three female and three male dancers appeared as well. The song ended with the main riff from Madhouse's "Six."

The NPG Hornz left the stage while the dancers remained. Once again the Artist took his white symbol guitar and started "Joy In Repetition." After the dancers left the stage, The NPG Hornz entered again for a few bars of "Sexy MF," after which they quickly left again. "If I Was Your Girlfriend" was next, followed by "One Of Us," during which The Artist showcased some passionate guitar-playing. The Artist and the band left the stage during the pre-recorded song "Emancipation" while the laser lights lit up the text "Happy Birthday Mayte!"

"The Freedom Day" press conference and aftershow...

After the November 12th broadcast, The Artist held a press conference. As he walked in, accompanied by two bodyguards, the assembled reporters (around 100) began to cheer. The cameras started going off like crazy as he took a seat. The only sound in the room was the clicking of cameras and flashes were everywhere. The Artist seemed somewhat ill at ease. The first thing he said during the 20-minute press conference that followed was, "Now the hard part is over."

The reporters questioned him about the divorce from Warner Bros. and the feelings he had towards them. He said he had no hard feelings and that he had actually invited many of them to the party that evening though he did not know who had come. Another reporter asked why he still performed old Prince songs. He said that he plans on going back and doing alot of Prince stuff, saying that he does not own the music but he "knows how to play it."

the Artist was asked about Mayte and he said that she was the only person who had never showed him any malice and that she was the one for him. Asked what kept him going, his simple response was "heaven" as he pointed towards the sky. They asked him to name someone that influenced him and he said Muhammad Ali. Some reporters wanted to know more about his new band. He said that Sheila E. put him in contact with the female musicians and he was very grateful to her for that.

They asked about the sound of the new album and he said it was much happier than the ones before. In the past, he had been upset and mad therefore the whole band was mad, but now the whole band is happy. One reporter asked why he did not release a live record and he admitted to The Artist that he owned a few bootlegs himself. At this, The Artist jumped up and yelled "security" and pretended to walk out of the room. He said that he did not know why there was no live record, although he said that will do one in the future and bring back some songs he did not feel he has done justice live, one being "When the Doves Cry." Throughout, The Artist seemed happy and was very playful with the reporters.

Later the same night, The Artist took the stage again for an "after show" performance. This time he played five songs, ending with "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World" and "The Cross."

Live at Paisley Park...

Around 200 people paid $10 and got inside Paisley Park on Friday, November 15th, to witness another performance by The Artist. Mayte watched the show, sitting by the soundboard. Every once in a while, she would stand up and groove a little to the music. A lavender piano had been added to the edge of the ramp that was used during "The Freedom Day" concert. The word "beautiful" was written on the side of the piano.

the Artist seemed to be in a very playful mood, strutting around stage and really getting the audience into it. The band has become tighter and the two newest band members, Kathleen Dyson and Rhonda Smith, had several shots at different solos on the guitar and bass respectively and it all came off very well.

The set list was: "Face Down"/ "Forever In My Life"/ "The Ballad Of Dorothy Parker"/ "The Ghetto"/ "Jam Of The Year"/ "Purple Rain"/ "Get Yo Groove On"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "Starfish And Coffee"/ "What It Is"/ "Love And Happiness"/ "Take Me With U"/ "Sleep Around."

Tom Joyner radio show...

An announced "Emancipation Special" on the syndicated US radio show hosted by Tom Joyner consisted mainly of the broadcasting of several songs off the then brand-new Emancipation and a new unreleased song by the Artist entitled "2morrow." The show was broadcast on November 20th.

Oprah's New Friend...
by Ethan Colchamiro

On November 20th, a cold morning in Chicago, 300 of the luckiest The Artist fans in the world lined up outside of Oprah Winfrey's Harpo Studios to spend an intimate hour with The Artist, as well as Mayte and members of The New Power Generation. The Artist, in town to promote Emancipation, was scheduled to perform live between segments of a pre-recorded interview with Winfrey, one of America's most beloved talk show hosts. Tickets to Winfrey's show, normally available through requests from her studio, were highly coveted not only by Chicago The Artist fans, but even fans from all across the country.

After being ushered through the usual security measures, we were then able to enter the studio where the show would be filmed. We were also asked to participate in an impromptu dance contest by the show's producers, to pick able dancers to get wild on camera when The Artist played his final number for the live studio audience.

The studio, normally decorated to match Winfrey's fun yet conservative image, had been completely rearranged in preparation for ¤'s performance. The small, intimate stage was awash in purple and lavender lights. The NPG's speakers were covered in fluffy white material, with Mr. Hayes' keyboards setup on the left side of the stage, while Kirk J.'s drum kit occupied the right side.

After a brief sound check, the lights dimmed and it was time for Winfrey to take the stage. The audience greeted Oprah with a standing ovation, as thanks for making this once in a lifetime experience possible. When the cheers died down, the host introduced the first section of her interview with The Artist, which had been recorded at Paisley Park Studios a few weeks before.

Following the first segment of the taped interview, the moment we had all been waiting for arrived. "Here to perform his new single 'Betcha By Golly Wow!,' The Artist and The New Power Generation!!!!" From the moment The Artist entered the room, he radiated an electricity unlike any the room had experienced. Decked out in a lime green turtleneck sweater with matching wool pants, The Artist took the stage with a genuine "glad to be back" grin. In spite of a few sound problems at the beginning of the song (which would later keep the performance from being broadcast), The Artist sweetly crooned his latest tune with a love in his voice that was surely directed to Mayte.

As soon as The Artist ended the song with its passionate spoken "I love U," he ran off the stage, and Oprah introduced the next segment of the interview. After a brief commercial break, we were treated to more of the Paisley Park footage. During the next commercial break, The New Power Generation returned to the stage, to prepare for their next performance. Mr. Hayes was being his usual animated self, and talked to several members of the audience, and introduced the new line-up to the fans.

Once the advertisements came to an end, Oprah took her place off stage and stood in front of the camera to say the words we all wanted to hear. "Here to perform some of his hits from the Prince days, The Artist and New Power Generation!" Once again, The Artist took the stage, this time dressed in tight white slacks and a white pirate shirt, complemented with white coat tails and a scarf. The Artist made his way to the centre of the stage as the lights dimmed. The band opened up with a slow, grinding rendition of "Do Me, Baby," which The Artist sung with a syrupy-sweet falsetto. After completing the first verse of the song, The Artist went into a electric dance routine that started with him flinging his jacket and scarf off, and ended with the band going straight into "If I Was Your Girlfriend." After performing a condensed version of Prince's classic, the Artist ran off the stage as the next portion of the interview began. After the recorded interview portion was over, we were treated to yet another outstanding performance.

Even as Oprah was introducing The Artist, he ran out on the stage, where The NPG was waiting for him. Clad in black dress pants, a black button down shirt, with purple blazer and multi-coloured tie, The Artist took his place behind a lavender piano with the word "Beautiful" scrawled on every side. It was then that the band delivered a raucous rendition of "Sleep Around."

the Artist performed the first verse behind his piano, but then finished the job with his gun mike. The song's energy was infectious, even Oprah was dancing in the isles with the rest of the audience. Caught up in the song, The Artist leapt on top of his piano, unbuttoned his jacket, and threw it on to the stage as he motioned the audience to join him in dancing. At the end of the song, while we all caught our breath, Oprah asked her new friend how many songs he thought he had left in him. "Hopefully, one a day, until I die."

The Artist on Oprah Winfrey's show...

The Oprah Winfrey Show featuring The Artist was broadcast on November 21st 1996. It was a one-hour show (actually about 45 minutes of broadcasting time without the commercials), featuring documentary footage, a recorded interview with The Artist and Mayte, and live footage from a concert in Oprah's Chicago TV studio shot the previous night. Oprah is a talk show that usually features live interviews with artists and some interaction with the public. In this case, the interview with The Artist was taped earlier this month (on November 4th) at the Paisley Park studio complex.

Live at Park West, Chicago...

Following his performance on the Oprah show, The Artist played a concert at the Park West in Chicago, November 20th. The tickets for the "Emancipation Celebration" at the club clearly stated "No Performance Scheduled," but that did not stop hundreds of fans from braving the cold and the snow. The crowd was let in around 11:30 pm. The crew was still running soundchecks on the instruments and mics. Kirk Johnson was checking his drums.

Just before 12:30, Morris Hayes came out and checked his keyboards, and the whole band followed moments later. Before anyone knew what was happening, they launched into "Jam Of The Year." It had a long musical intro before the Artist finally appeared on stage. Immediately, the show had a different vibe than the televised event the previous week. It was loose and the Artist looked like he was having a lot of fun. At one point he asked, "What are y'all doing here? We weren't supposed to be making any noise tonight." He also asked the crowd, "What's the definition of 'emancipation'" several times during the night.

the Artist introduced "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World" by asking, "Where are all the pretty girls?" The band started playing the song but The Artist had the band stop. He asked where the pretty girls were at again and launched into "The Ride" instead. "Let's end this night on that high note," The Artist said after playing "One Of Us." When the crowd roared in disapproval of the ending, The Artist asked, "You think we can get higher?" The band started "Sleep Around" during which The Artist grabbed Kirk Johnson's white hat and his one-eyed bass guitar and proceeded to play the bass on one leg. He led the crowd in a chant of "C-H-I" (as in Chicago) and he added, "I love ya." Then, he blew a kiss to the crowd and left the stage while the band finished up the song. It was about 1:45 am when it was over.

The songs played were: "Jam Of The Year"/ "Purple Rain"/ "Get Yo Groove On" – "Six"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "The Ride"/ "Do Me, Baby" – "Adore" – "Scandalous"/ "Sexy MF"/ "If I Was Your Girlfriend"/ "One Of Us"/ "Sleep Around."

Paisley Park party...

There was a party at Paisley Park on Friday, December 6th, attended by about 50 people. The Artist didn't perform, but he appeared at around 2 am. He went to the DJ booth and played a live rehearsal of the song "17 Days." It was followed by an instrumental version of "Brick House." Later, The Artist played a live version of "Dreamin' About U." Later again, he played another track featuring the "be bop 2 hip hop" groove from the unreleased track "Mad" (from the NPG Exodus sessions) with guitar and bass solos.

DJ Brother Jules also played many The Artist tracks, far more than what is usually played during those parties. The songs played included "Tamborine," "Girls And Boys," "Shockadelica," "Head," "Joint 2 Joint," "Jam Of The Year," "Right Back Here In My Arms," "Sleep Around," and "The Human Body." The Artist also spent some time sitting at the edge of the stage during the party, talking to his bodyguard and Brother Jules.

The Artist and Mayte in New York...

the Artist and Mayte were at the premiere of the film The Preacher's Wife in New York on December 9th, at The Ziegfield Theater. The next day, they had front-row seats together with EMI head Charles Koppelman at the Knicks-Bullets game at Madison Square Garden. The local cable network (MSG) gave the three a couple of good close-ups. They got some applause when they entered about 10 minutes before half-time. They left five minutes before the game ended when it was certain that the Knicks were going to win.

The Artist appears onstage at "Three Divas" concert...

While in New York, The Artist joined Gloria Estefan, Chaka Khan, and Donna Summer on stage on Wednesday, December 11th, at the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre in Manhattan, New York, for a live appearance in their "Three Divas On Broadway" concert. The show was a special concert for WKTU-FM and also a benefit for the stars' favorite charities (each of the three divas received $20,000 to donate to their favorite charity).

the Artist was apparently invited by Gloria Estefan to play guitar on the show. He appeared wearing dark shades and played guitar and soloed on the song "Turn The Beat Around." Brief clips taken from the performance were shown on VH-1 as well as Access Hollywood. VH-1 are planning to broadcast the entire show.

The Artist in Canada...

the Artist was in Toronto, Canada on December 16th to do a few interviews. He was shown on Canada's music channel MuchMusic. The next day, he was off to Montreal for more interviews.

Appearance on The Today Show...

the Artist appeared on NBC's The Today Show with Bryant Gumbel on December 19th 1996. He was interviewed by Gumbel and Mayte joined the conversation after a while. The whole interview lasted about 13 minutes. The Artist did not perform.

Warming up at Paisley Park...

the Artist performed again at Paisley Park on Friday, December 27th 1996. The 45-minute set was basically a warm-up for Saturday's benefit concert for the Love 4 One Another charity. Since the Chicago show a month earlier, guitarist Mike Scott had been added to the line-up.

The set included: "Somebody Somebody"/ "Talkin' Loud Sayin' Nothing"/ "Purple Rain"/ "17 Days"/ "Get Yo Groove On" – "Six"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore"/ "Take Me With U"/ "Raspberry Beret"/ "I Don't Hate Nobody" (unknown song)/ "Face Down."

After the set was over, The Artist and the band exited the stage and probably about half the audience left thinking that the night was over. But The Artist returned to the stage after a relatively short break to inform people how they could get in to the next night's benefit concert. DJ Brother Jules started up a song and the band joined in, playing around. the Artist then invited people to come up on stage to dance, and if they were good enough, they would be put on the guest list for the next night. Most everyone who went up got the okay to be put on the list from The Artist, but then two girls went up and were not doing anything special and so The Artist said that they better start dancing or they "ain't getting in." Another guy came up with a Michael Jackson mask on and starting dancing around. The Artist was shouting like Michael Jackson does when he gets the urge to grab his crotch.

The Love 4 One Another Charities Tour...

The Love 4 One Another Charities Tour was announced in a December 18th 1996 NPG Records press release, which read, "On December 28th, The Artist Formerly Known as Prince and his Love 4 One Another charity will help make the Christmas holiday unforgettable for high school students from across the United States. Students were selected to attend Christmas at Paisley Park after sending in copies of their report card to radio stations in their home markets. This day, hosted by The Artist Formerly Known As Prince, will bring together young people for an exchange of ideas and a discussion of problems and solutions. Christmas at Paisley Park will feature special guest performances and each attending student will receive a personalized gift from The Artist Formerly Known As Prince."

Christmas at Paisley Park actually kicked off in the morning of December 28th with a one-hour warm-up performance for the evening's festivities. The Artist took to the soundstage, which had been draped with red and white lights and adorned with a Christmas tree, at about 2 am. The set included: "Somebody's Somebody"/ "Talkin' Loud And Saying Nothin'"/ "Purple Rain"/ "17 Days"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore"/ "Get Yo Groove On" - "Six"/ "Take Me With U"/ "Raspberry Beret."/ "Face Down." After "17 Days," The Artist began to play "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World" at the piano, but changed his mind and quickly segued into "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore" instead.

Before launching into "Face Down," he proceeded to answer some fans' complaints on the Internet that Mayte was making him change from his usual ways, scolding "I don't hate nobody. The reason why they hate you is they wanna be you. I found me my Puerto Rican and ya'll hate her because ya'll wanna be her. Fuck all ya'll. Ya'll can kiss my ass. If your enemies treat you bad, then you just gotta lay" which lead right into "Face Down." The set concluded about 3 am. The lights were turned up, and the DJ began playing more recorded music.

After about 20 minutes, The Artist and the band returned to the stage, playing an instrumental. The Artist asked the crowd if they had tickets for the following day's show, and telling them, "If you wanna come, you gotta dance." At this point fans were brought up on stage to dance and The Artist judged whether they made the cut or not. Regardless of their performance, just about everyone was put on a guest list for the show later in the day.

The 500-strong audience at the December 28th Paisley Park concert was mainly comprised of school students from across the land and 300 Chicago fans who benefited from a special package deal including airfare, accommodation and show tickets for $200. The sound stage had red and white Christmas lights hanging down the walls and a Christmas tree in the corner. The stage was painted red this time and had Christmas lights along the side of it too. The people from Chicago who bought the travel package (had a special pass that let them have some food. The band came on the stage at 10:55 pm and started playing "Jam Of The Year" while The Artist asked the crowd to represent their cities. Chicago was the loudest because most of the people were from there so The Artist said, "Forget Minneapolis, I'm performing in Chicago tonight!" The show lasted about an hour and 20 minutes.

The set list was: "Jam Of The Year"/ "Talkin' Loud And Saying Nothin'"/ "Purple Rain"/ "17 Days"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "Get Yo Groove On" - "Six"/ "Face Down" (censored version)/ "The Cross/ "One Of Us"/ "Sleep Around." A highlight of the set was "Face Down." The Artist first jammed on his bass guitar for a good five minutes while the crowd chanted "play that muthafuckin bass!" He performed most of the song on the piano and had the crowd dancing. Tony Rich came up on stage to join the band during "Sleep Around" by playing some piano. The Artist then picked up the GoldAxxe again and jammed with Tony. All the band members got to solo. The Artist told "Chicago" to start singing "Partyman" and while the crowd chanted that he did another solo on the GoldAxxe before picking up the bass again for more soloing. He left the stage for a second with the audience chanting "Partyman" to the beat. Tom Joyner came out for a second and sang a little bit. The Artist came back out and jammed a little bit more on the bass before he finally left that.

A surprise to even The Artist's own staff, The Love 4 One Another Charities Tour, with the following dates at primarily clubs and small theatres were announced in a January 2nd 1997 press release:

Tower Theatre, Philadelphia, January 7th
The Roxy, Boston, January 8th
Constitution Hall, Washington DC, January 10th
Roseland, New York, January 11th
State Theater, Detroit, January 13th
Palumbo Center (Duquesne University), Pittsburgh, January 14th
Convocation Center, Hampton, January 15th
Hornet's Training Facility, Charlotte, January 17th
Boutwell Auditorium, Birmingham, January 18th
Atlanta Live, Atlanta, January 19th
The Moon (Florida A&M University), Tallahassee, January 20th
Saegner Theatre, New Orleans, January 22nd
Southern Methodist University, Dallas, January 24th
University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, January 25th
International Ballroom, Houston, January 26th

According to the press release, all proceeds from the tour "will benefit The Artist's personal charities all over the U.S. celebrating his motto: 'freedom is a beautiful thang.'" For several of the shows, tickets went on sale January 3rd through Ticketmaster, and most shows were sold out within two or three minutes. In just a few hours, however, scalpers were already pawning tickets for several hundred dollars. When The Artist caught news of this, he nearly cancelled the entire tour because he felt that the whole reason for it, a benefit for his new Love 4 One Another Charity, was being compromised. Members of The Artist's staff finally convinced him to play the shows that had already gone on sale, using the reasoning that it would be unfair to those fans who had waited several hours (in some cases overnight) to purchase tickets.

Billy Sparks, who was acting as tour manager, said in Detroit that they were working on a new system to distribute tickets that would be more fair. He also implied that they would not be hitting the road again until a new system was in place. Because of the scalping situation, all previously announced dates with the exceptions of the shows in Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Detroit, Birmingham, and Atlanta, were either cancelled or "postponed."

The NPG lineup for the tour was the same as what The Artist has been performing with for much of the past year: Kathleen Dyson (guitar), Kirk Johnson (drums), Rhonda Smith (bass), and Morris Hayes (keyboards). In addition, a new guitar player was recently added, Mike Scott. He was previously involved with Johnson's TKO project. Apparently Scott was added because Dyson is becoming more responsible for triggering the MIDI samples for songs, a job that was becoming too difficult for Morris Hayes to handle on his own. For such a small-scale tour the production and lighting was fantastic, something many newspaper reviews pointed out. The Artist never stopped moving, dancing around the stage and platforms erected on either side of the stage, jumping from guitar to bass to Goldaxxe to piano.

Somewhat surprisingly, the majority of the set consisted of "Prince" songs. A typical show lasted about two hours and contained: "Jam Of The Year"/ "Talkin' Loud And Saying Nothin'"/ "Purple Rain"/ "17 Days"/ "Get Yo Groove On" - "Six"/ "The Most Beautiful Girl In The World"/ "Face Down"/ "The Cross"/ "One Of Us"/ "Do Me, Baby" (with bits of "Adore," "Insatiable," "Scandalous," and "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore" thrown in)/ "Sexy MF"/ "If I Was Your Girlfriend"/ "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore"/ "Take Me With U"/ "Raspberry Beret"/ "Mr. Happy"/ "18 & Over"/ "Sleep Around"/ "Feel Alright"/ "Johnny." In addition "The Ride," "Kiss," "Partyman," "Take The A Train" (incorporated into "Sleep Around"), and "Somebody's Somebody" have been played on occasion. A 1972 song by James Brown, "Talkin' Loud And Saying Nothin'" is basically performed as an instrumental jam, serving as an introduction to the band as each member gets to solo. "18 & Over" was sometimes just the chant from the song, "18 and over, I wants to bone ya."

Of the 15 concerts on the Love 4 One Another Charities Tour listed above, only the following eight shows did actually take place:

Paisley Park, Minneapolis - December 28th 1996
The Tower, Philadelphia - January 7th 1997
The Roxy, Boston - January 8th 1997
Constitution Hall, Washington DC - January 10th 1997
Roseland, New York City - January 11th 1997
State Theater, Detroit - January 13th 1997
Boutwell Auditorium, Birmingham - January 18th 1997
Atlanta Live, Atlanta - January 19th 1997

The other shows were initially announced and then cancelled, some of them even after tickets had already been on sale. The reason given was apparently an excessive amount of scalping.

An in-depth tour report was featured in UPTOWN #29.

Jam Of The Year world tour...

The Artist held an official press conference at the Broadway Millennium Hotel in New York on July 22nd to announce details of the Jam Of The Year world tour, as well as plans for building a new school in Minneapolis. The school is a long-term project that will be funded by the Love 4 One Another charity. The Jam Of The Year world tour appears to be a replacement for the anticipated Emancipation tour that never kicked off following The Artist's decision to stop promoting Emancipation after the demise of the EMI Records label.

The Artist said that dates for the tour would only be announced approximately a week in advance, in order to deter scalping. The Artist added that he was not going to use any sponsors or agents and would deal directly with ticket sales agencies and venues. The Artist also announced that several other artists, including Chaka Khan, Lenny Kravitz, George Clinton and No Doubt, would join him on certain dates.

The tour kicked off on July 21st in Clarksdale, Michigan. The show is not intended to promote a specific album and is more of a "greatest hits" show. The setlist is fairly similar to that of the Love 4 One Another Charities tour, but The Artist has added several Prince songs, including "Cream," "When Doves Cry," "Gett Off," "When You Were Mine," and, on some occasions, "Delirious" and "Let's Work." A piano medley has also been included, usually consisting of a combination of the following tracks: "Somebody's Somebody," "The Beautiful Ones," "Diamonds And Pearls," "Venus De Milo," "Girls And Boys," and "Strange Relationship." The new song "(I Like) Funky Music" has also been added to the setlist.

The Artist has chosen to focus on the music itself, and the shows are stripped-down affairs with few props and no elaborate theatrics. The concerts have been receiving mostly positive reviews from journalists and followers alike. Doug E. Fresh appeared during several shows and aftershows in the early part of the tour, while Larry Graham and his band opened a few shows in September. Chaka Khan and Lenny Kravitz are planned to join The Artist at concerts in October.

The Artist has been playing a lot of aftershows following the main performances, including in many cities where he had never performed before. The aftershows usually consist of a mixture of "old school" R&B and funk favourites and classic Prince material. They are usually relatively short affairs, ranging from half an hour to slightly over one hour.

According to The Artist, the tour will last until 1999 and will end with a major concert in a secret location, with guests such as the Foo Fighters.

You can find all 1997 Jam Of The Year tour dates in UPTOWN #31's extensive tour report, which covers all concerts up until December 31st 1997. Needless to say, you can expect a follow-up on all 1998 concerts in forthcoming issues of UPTOWN.

NYC cassette...

This two-track cassette was released shortly after the completion of the Love 4 One Another Charities Tour in the USA. It features two tracks from the live performance at Roseland in New York City on January 11th. The sleeve is a reproduction of the Emancipation promotional picture with The Artist sitting on big speakers, but the photograph was painted over by what seems to be The Artist's own hand. The Artist also hand-wrote "4th generation bootleg but it's all good!!!" on the side. Both sides of the NYC cassette are the same, with "Jam Of The Year" leading into (via the magic of editing) "Face Down." The tape starts with the NPG building a crescendo until the Rosie Gaines sample announces that "this is the jam of the year." During the track, the Artist announces that the show isn't for the promotion of anything except love. "Face Down" features an extended intro with Rhonda and The Artist both on bass. The Artist false-starts a few times before completing his statement that the song "is dedicated to all the muthafuckers who wanna rule you!" After some intense jamming behind the Artist's continued explanation of the song, things move onto the "album" portion of the song and ends with some ad-libbing on the bass.

The tape is a soundboard recording and it is not heavily overdubbed, so it does sound pretty raw. The version of "Face Down" on the tape is identical to the version he performed on The Chris Rock Show. The NYC tape includes some extra jamming before and after the song, but the vocal parts are exactly the same. So, it is possible that he was actually lip-synching to this January 11th 1997 Roseland version of "Face Down" when he was on The Chris Rock Show.

Kamasutra...

This orchestral work (a ballet soundtrack for which Mayte is rumoured to be currently choreographing an actual ballet presentation) was released on Valentine's Day 1997 through 1-800-NEW-FUNK to celebrate The Artist and Mayte's first wedding anniversary. Both sides of the cassette contain the full 41-minute opus. The sound quality is excellent. The sleeve includes the text from the wedding program, Coincidence Or Fate?, that was put online back in 1996 at the time of the opening of the "The Dawn" web site. The tracklist for the Kamasutra cassette is the following:

1. "The Plan"
2. "Kamasutra"
3. "At Last... The Lost Is Found"
4. "The Ever Changing Light"
5. "Cutz"
6. "Serotonin"
7. "Promise/Broken"
8. "Barcelona"
9. "Kamasutra/Overture #8"
10. "Coincidence Or Fate?"
11. "Kamasutra/Eternal Embrace"

This work illustrates The Artist's many musical influences and ranges from neo-classical movements (tracks 1 and 2) to jazz-funk pieces à la Madhouse (tracks 6 and 7) to Spanish-inspired themes (track 8). It also mixes the sound of a live orchestra playing (conducted by Clare Fisher) with synthesized instruments, sounds, voices and samples. Saxophonist and flutist Eric Leeds and The Hornheads (also known as The NPG Hornz) also appear.

"The Truth"/"Don't Play Me" CD-single...

"Don't Play Me" is a song that The Artist wrote after Emancipation was completed. He talked about the song in an interview in Canada back in December 1996. According to Donnie Simpson's radio show on WPGC in Washington DC on February 10th, some journalists and associates of The Artist received a personalized copy of the two-track CD in the mail. Simpson said that "executives at EMI had no idea what this was and were totally shocked by it." This information was confirmed on February 12th in the St. Paul Pioneer Press by pop music critic and follower Jim Walsh, who also received a copy of the CD. The record sleeve states that this two-track CD is actually a preview of a forthcoming album entitled The Truth, exclusively consisting of acoustic songs. The CD-single is now commercially available through 1-800-NEW-FUNK. There is no information as of early April 1997 on a release date for the album.

The two tracks feature The Artist singing and playing acoustic guitar, as well as various sound effects and additional "touches" of other instruments (electric piano, organ, etc.). "The Truth" is a straightforward dynamic blues number with some unique melodic variations and quite a bit of screaming and swearing ("The choice you make/It ain't no piece of cake/It ain't no motherfuckin' piece of pie"), while the second track is a more laid-back track, in contrast with its sharp lyrics ("U couldn't play enough of me now/To make me feel like a star/Don't play me/I already do in my car").

Second appearance on The Today Show...

On January 3rd 1997, The Artist made an unannounced appearance on The Today Show. It was Gumbel's last appearance as host of the show after 15 years on the air. The whole show was a very emotional goodbye to Gumbel. His fondness of The Artist's music was mentioned and they also recalled his doing the first-ever live interview of The Artist on TV (the December 19th show). At the end of that interview, Bryant had joked about The Artist's special taste in clothes and the fact that the Artist would never wear a blazer, a tie and flat shoes like he does. Well, lo and behold, The Artist made a surprise appearance on the set of the show and here he was, all dressed up in the most formal black suit with tie and dark-framed glasses that you can imagine! This whole outfit was an imitation of what Bryant Gumbel wore. The Artist added his own Morris Day-like theatrics on top of that and the whole thing was hilarious.

Gumbel could hardly believe his eyes and everyone was laughing and clapping. After shaking Gumbel's hand and hugging him, The Artist went on to perform a special medley of "Take Me With U" and "Raspberry Beret." The latter song featured special lyrics that The Artist wrote specifically in honour of Gumbel, encouraging him to "keep his cool" whatever he was going to do next, and saying, "If the competition goes tacky, keep on wearing those kakis," which got everyone laughing as well. The Artist received a standing ovation at the end of the performance.

After the short performance, Bryant Gumbel asked The Artist, still sitting at the piano, what Mayte would think about all this. The Artist answered, "It was her idea," adding that she had also asked him to "impersonate you." Then The Artist made a typical "serious Bryant Gumbel" face and said with Gumbel's kind of low voice, "Take care, Bryant." Gumbel was obviously surprised and extremely happy to see The Artist make this special appearance for him and be so playful.

Rosie O'Donnell Show...

The Artist made a live appearance on the syndicated Rosie O'Donnell Show January 7th in New York. He played "Somebody's Somebody" and "The Holy River" live and did a short interview with the host of the show, Rosie O'Donnell in between the two songs.

David Bowie and Kristin Scott-Thomas...

While The Artist was in New York, he met with actress and Under The Cherry Moon co-star Kristin Scott-Thomas. They attended the January 12th premiere of Woody Allen's new film, Everbody Says I Love You., and went to the post-premiere bash. The Artist also attended David Bowie's 50th birthday celebration concert at Madison Square Garden on January 9th.

The Artist at NBA game...

On January 15th, The Artist was shown on local Minneapolis television watching the basketball game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Chicago Bulls at the Target Center. He sat next to Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis, and his bodyguard Aaron. He wore black and gold glasses along with the white 'BRR' jacket seen in the "Betcha By Golly Wow!" video.

Exclusive interview on VH-1...

The Artist taped an exclusive interview with Chris Rock before his show at the Roseland in New York on January 11th. This interview was broadcast on VH-1 on February 1st as part of VH-1's Artist of the Month program dedicated to The Artist in February 1997.

The Chris Rock Show...

Comedian Chris Rock's new Friday late night sketch comedy/talk-show, The Chris Rock Show, launched February 7th on HBO, with the artist formerly known as Prince and attorney Johnnie Cochran as guests. The Artist played a live version of the song "Face Down" (including the swearing).

The NAACP Image Awards...

The Artist won the Special Achievement Award at the 28th Annual NAACP Image Awards. The ceremony was held on February 8th at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Pasadena, California. Former NBC Today Show host Bryant Gumbel received the President's Award. The show aired on Fox on February 27th. For those attending, the printed program had a write-up of the Artist, describing his career and current projects in broad strokes. On the opposite page was an ad for the 1-800-NEW-FUNK service.

The Artist's performed a lip-synched version of "Emancipation." At the beginning of the song, The Artist appeared manacled by chains on his wrists. The chains came off just in time for a bass solo on the one-eyed bass guitar (alas, also set to pre-recorded music), the only other notable feature of the performance being the "Camille"-like voice used for the (re-recorded) main vocal track. After a short break, the Artist was escorted to his seat alongside Mayte and George Clinton, who was in full funk regalia in a shiny metallic suit.

A brief video introduction with popular Prince/The Artist video clips and some footage from the Love 4 One Another shows heralded a pre-recorded intro by Stevie Wonder. Stevie was then escorted onto the stage where he again introduced the Artist. The Artist took the stage to a standing ovation. He spoke about how uncertain he was about the "surprise presenter" the NAACP had chosen for his award presentation. "I was afraid Bryant Gumbel would come out dressed as me!" He then spoke some more words of thanks and ended with words of admiration for Stevie Wonder. A few minutes later, he escorted Stevie off the side of the stage and bodyguards came to escort Mayte out.

EMI press release...

Under the heading, "The artist and Mayte share Valentine's Day gift with the world," a press release from EMI on February 11th 1997 announced:

"On Valentine's Day 1996, The Artist Formerly Known as Prince and Mayte Garcia joined in a marriage described as the fated meeting of two companion souls. The love songs on The Artist's double-platinum three hour Emancipation CD are in large measure a dedication to his new wife. Beside him on the Oprah Winfrey Show or the cover of Ebony, Mayte has worked with The Artist to make his dreams an ongoing reality. The Artist's recent "Love 4 One Another Charities Tour" which benefits people in need across the United States was a shared goal. A consisent presence, Mayte is featured in his "Betcha By Golly Wow!" clip and her absence is the focus of "Somebody's Somebody," the second video from Emancipation.

On this year's Valentine's Day they will celebrate their first anniversary by revisiting the Hawaiian isle site of their honeymoon. In honor of their marriage The Artist has created an orchestral-ballet interpretation of their love story entitled Kamasutra (translatable as "the science of love"). Kamasutra, composed by The Artist recorded by 52-piece NPG Orchestra, details the origin of The Artist's name, the meeting of The Artist and Mayte, and how he and she became one. Mayte, who toured as a dancer with The Artist is currently assembling a dance company in Minneapolis to perform the ballet.

The Kama Sutra, an ancient Indian text written by the Hindu sage Vatsyayana, is the most important work in a long tradition of Indian erotic literature, all of which proclaim that sexual equality and happiness are the right of every human being."

Hawaiian performance...

The Artist performed at the Blaisdell Arena in Hawaii on February 16th to celebrate his first wedding anniversary. The performance was quite similar to the Love 4 One Another Charities Tour performances from January 1997 in the US. It was a mixture of "Prince" classics ("Do Me, Baby", "Purple Rain", "17 Days", "If I Was Your Girlfriend", "Sexy MF", etc.), Emancipation tracks ("Mr. Happy", "Get Yo Groove On", "Jam Of The Year", "Sleep Around", etc.) and a few covers (James Brown's "Talkin' Loud And Sayin' Nothin'" and "Get It Together" and the Santana Medley in honour of Mayte).

The Artist was very playful with the crowd and in a great mood. At some point he insisted, "This is live, this is not Memorex!," possibly referring to Michael Jackson's mostly lip-synched performance earlier this year in Hawaii. The whole show lasted around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

BPI Awards performance...

The Artist was nominated in the "Best International Artist" category at the BPI British Awards in London, England, on February 24th. He lost the award to Beck. There was genuinely excited cheering from the audience when the compere announced the Artist. The stage went dark and the guitar intro from "When Doves Cry" started, followed immediately by the introduction to "1999." Whilst this was happening the band marched on, all dressed in white. A portion of "We March" was played. The Artist then appeared from behind Morris' keyboards and the band cut into "Emancipation." The Artist was wearing a mainly black affair, black high-cut pants, long black jacket/coat and the word 'emancipation' was written in white in a couple of places. He was also wearing a headset microphone. The performance finished with The Artist picking up his one-eyed bass guitar and doing a brief jam with Rhonda (similar to the performance at the NAACP Image Awards earlier in February).

Celebrating Emancipation...

On February 28th, EMI-Capitol Music Group North America Chairman and CEO Charles Koppelman hosted a private party for The Artist and NPG Records to celebrate the double-platinum sales of Emancipation. The party was held at the Life nightclub in New York City and The Artist was there along with several celebrities and industry executives, including Spike Lee, LL Cool J, The Smashing Pumpkins, Kevin Spacey, A Tribe Called Quest, Russel Simmons, Andre Harrel, Jana Fleischman, Lynn Whitfield, Joan Osbourne, Sheryl Crow, Marilyn Manson, Chris Rock, Dougie Fresh, Savion Glover, Charles Koppleman, Quincy Jones, and Peter Gabriel. The Artist did not perform. He simply walked around and greeted everyone before sitting in his private room. The party lasted well past 4 am.

After presenting The Artist with a plaque to commemorate the double-platinum sales of the album, Charles Koppelman announced, "This is a historic event both for the industry and for our relationship. Emancipation reached double-platinum in just thirteen weeks, making it one of the best-selling multiple CDs of all time. We've just begun to scratch the surface of this incredible body of work from the most prolific artist in the world."

Terri Santisi, Executive Vice President and General Manager, EMI-Capitol Music Group, added, "We're honoured to have this relationship with the Artist. The march has just begun on this two-year project with a level of momentum and excitement exceeding our highest expectations which only confirms what we all know. Emancipation is the album the Artist was born to make."

The exclusive party was advertised in late March in Billboard magazine with a full-page feature including various pictures and quotes from several celebrities.

Earlier on the same evening of February 28th, The Artist attended the Rhythm & Blues Foundation Awards Dinner, where he made a donation from his own Love 4 One Another charity to the foundation. He also met one of his musical influences, Curtis Mayfield. Mavis Staples was also present.

Top Of The Pops appearance...

The Artist appeared on Top Of The Pops on UK TV on Friday, February 28th to play "The Holy River." The performance was taped earlier in the week. Several other bands played before The Artist did, including The Bee Gees, Republica, Sash, Cathy Dennis, and Bush. The Artist was wearing the "BRR" parka, as were the other members (except for Mr. Hayes). The Artist had sunglasses on and was playing his white symbol guitar. He was wearing the moon ear-wrap, his scarf, white boots and see-through pants. After the performance the host Ian Wright said how much he adored the Artist.

The performance was live (i.e. The Artist actually sang) but severely edited. It is possible that the music of the band was replaced by a backing tape, in which case the backing tape was a live recording as well. The performance did include the guitar solo, though, albeit a short version of it.

Party at Paisley Park...

There was a party at Paisley Park on March 12th. The crowd was small but adequate for a Wednesday night. The Artist pretty much wandered around, freely talking to people and it looked like he was playing host to some guests at the party. The night also featured a different remix of the "The Holy River." It was a slow-tempo, "romantic" remix. A remix of "Somebody's Somebody" was also played. It was an uptempo fast-paced version.

10th Anniversary Essence Awards...

The Artist appeared on the 10th Anniversary Essence Awards on Friday, April 4th, 1997 at 7:30 PM EST at Madison Square Gardens, New York City, to present an award. He was spotted backstage meeting with one of his idols, Muhammad Ali. The show will be broadcast on US FOX TV network on May 22nd 1997.

VH-1 Honors...

The Artist performed at the 4th Annual VH-1 Honors on April 10th at the Universal Amphitheatre in Los Angeles. He first played "The Holy River" and then returned at the end of the 4-hour long show to perform a short medley of "Take Me With U" and "Raspberry Beret". Other performers included Steve Winwood, James Taylor, Sheryl Crow, Celine Dion, and the Wallflowers.

The show paid tribute to music education. Proceeds from the benefit went to "Save The Music," VH-1's program to keep music education in public schools across America. The show was broadcast on VH-1 on April 11th.

This awards show honours artists and entertainers who have made a significant contribution to charities. The Artist already appeared on the show in 1994 when he performed "Interactive" and "Endorphinmachine" before receiving an award for his work with Marva Collins in Chicago.

The Artist plays on the West Coast

As part of his Love 4 One Another Charities Tour, The Artist had initially planned to perform two shows on the West Coast following his appearance at the VH-1 Honors, plus a possible aftershow in the DNA Lounge in San Francisco. However, the sold-out concert at San Jose State University's Event Centre in San Jose on April 12th was cancelled at the last minute due to excessive scalping. The show will be rescheduled with more control over ticket sales. The aftershow was also consequently cancelled. The Artist did, however, perform as planned at the 2,500-capacity Pantages Theatre in Los Angeles on April 11th. The show was in line with his previous performances in January, featuring the same basic set and similar lively interaction with the crowd, despite the fact that The Artist was reported to be sick with a stomach flu.

Parties at Paisley Park...

Several late-night parties took place at Paisley Park during the April-June period. Dates include April 25th and 30th, and May 4th, 23rd, 28th, and 30th. The Artist appeared at some of the parties, usually staying in the D.J. booth with Brother Jules or chatting with his bodyguards and band members. Mayte appeared during the May 30th party and danced with some of the crowd. Several as of yet unreleased tracks were played, including remixes of "The Holy River" and "Face Down" and tracks from the upcoming The Truth acoustic album.

September 1997 Paisley Park performances...

On September 6th, The Artist and the NPG announced on Minneapolis radio stations an "open rehearsal" at Paisley Park that evening. A large crowd gathered but only about half were admitted. The show was held in the soundstage area, where the Jam Of The Year tour stage had been erected in full. The Artist took to the stage at 2:25 a.m. and played until nearly 4:00 a.m. The set consisted of : Instrumental jam/ "Let's Work"/ "I'll Take You There" (Marva King on vocals)/ "I Got The Feelin'"/ "The Way You Do The Things You Do"/ "Shout"/ "Face Down"/ "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore"/ a brief portion of "Erotic City"/ "Sleep Around"/ "Baby, I'm A Star"/ "1999." Several members of Mayte's NPG Dance Company performed during the show, and Kamilah Wohlford was also present. Also guesting onstage were three members of New York's Days Of Wild, a cover group (saxophone player Pierre Andre-Baptiste, trumpet player Wayne Dumaine, and their trombone player). Jellybean Johnson was also coaxed up to perform, playing guitar on several numbers. Terry Lewis was in attendance, spotted speaking to The Artist following the concert.

Four days later, September 10th, The Artist played a benefit show at Paisley Park with all proceeds going to Minneapolis Mayor Sharon Sayles Belton's re-election campaign. Tickets to the event were $100 and all 400 tickets were sold. A free buffet was available before the show, and attendees were allowed a great deal of access to the rooms in Paisley Park. Belton introduced The Artist before the show began at 9:30 p.m., and The Artist told everyone after the first song, "Welcome to my job. This is my job and ya'll have to do your job, which is to dance." The set featured: "Joy In Repetition"/ "Talkin' Loud And Sayin' Nothing"/ "Purple Rain"/ "The Ride"/ "The Cross"/ "One Of Us"/ "Do Me, Baby"/ "Sexy MF"/ "If I Was Your Girlfriend"/ "Diamonds And Pearls"/ "Girls And Boys"/ "Sleep Around"/ "(I Like) Funky Music." Once again, several members of the NPG Dance Company danced during the last three numbers.

Entertainment Tonight...

The Artist appeared on the syndicated US TV show Entertainment Tonight on April 25th. The appearance consisted of a short, taped interview conducted before the San Jose performance on April 19th, as well as exclusive footage taken from that show. The interview focused on The Artist's public and private life. When asked about his wife, The Artist stated that Mayte pregnancy had "a really powerful effect on [him]" and changed the way he views women. He also said that he didn't mind the jokes about his name change, adding, "What people don't understand, they try to make light of." Apparently, the interview included a second part that was broadcast during the Sunday edition of the program on June 2nd.

Essence Awards...

As reported in our last issue, The Artist appeared at the 10th Annual Essence Awards on April 4th at Madison Square Gardens in New York City. The show was broadcast on the Fox US TV network on May 22nd. The Artist didn't perform, but was there to present an award to a 68-year-old gentleman who has taken numerous foster children into his home throughout the years, even though his income is only $20,000 a year. Female host Halle Berry said The Artist was very moved by this gentleman and preferred to present the award to him and not to play that evening, much to the disappointment of the audience. The male host of the show, US comedian Sinbad, had some very high praise for the Artist when introducing him that did not seem to be scripted. The Artist spoke the introduction, could be heard as the narrator in the taped video portrait of the gentleman and presented the award to him before leaving the stage.

The Artist inducts Parliament/Funkadelic...

The 1997 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductions ceremony took place in Cleveland on May 6th. The Artist was there to induct George Clinton's Parliament and Funkadelic bands. The Artist came on stage with Mayte and pronounced a short speech including the following lines, "There was something futuristic about Parliament-Funkadelic. Yet it was earthy and funky and timely. I remember seeing him at the Beverly Theater and it was frightening. That night I went to the studio and recorded 'Erotic City.' Needless to say, he's been an influence on me and everyone I know. That's all we talk about, that's all we groove to. With great pleasure, George, I say I love you and I need you, and I'm happy to induct you into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame." The Artist did not participate in the P-Funk All Stars jam that featured George Clinton and many past and present members of the Parliament and Funkadelic bands, including Bootsy Collins and Bernie Worrell.

The Artist appears on Muppets Tonight...

The Muppets Tonight episode featuring The Artist was finally broadcast on the Canal+ cable channel in Spain on May 4th. The show featured the revamped 1995 version of "Starfish And Coffee" that is currently in circulation among collectors, a parody of "Raspberry Beret" entitled "Raspberry Sorbet," and a brand new, piano-based song entitled "She Gave Her Angels" that is supposed to be part of The Artist and Mayte's children's song project entitled Happy Tears. The short song features a very nice melody and arrangement, somewhat reminiscent of the original version of "Empty Room." It is a song about love and fate which refers to a girl giving "her angels to a man because that man had none to watch over him 'til she returned..." The Artist also played a bit of a country song and the puppets made jokes about his name, the clothes he used to wear in the past and how fast he can write songs.

The Muppets Tonight show was cancelled by ABC in the US before the The Artist episode was aired. However, it was recently announced that US cable station Disney Channel had acquired the rights of the show. The The Artist episode was finally aired in the USA on September 13th. It will likely air in the UK, Belgium and France soon.

Black Music Awards...

The Artist spent his 39th birthday, June 7th, in Minneapolis. He was expected to attend the 1997 Minnesota Black Music Awards where he was to receive the "Lifetime Achievement Awards." The event apparently turned out to be quite badly organized and The Artist did not appear, although he was indeed honoured during the event. A special musical tribute was performed by the Minneapolis band Tribe of Millions. The two-day event also featured a historical pictorial from the archives of the Minnesota Black Music Awards including The Artist, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, The Time, Alexander O'Neal, Sounds of Blackness and other prominent Minnesota artists, and a "Prince Film Series" special video presentation showcasing highlights of The Artist's film and video work.

Muhammad Ali and The Artist...

The Artist and "his idol," the boxer Muhammad Ali held a press conference in Los Angeles on June 24th to announce plans for an October 9th benefit concert in Los Angeles. Ali, 55, who suffers from Parkinson's disease and has difficulty speaking, called on celebrities to enlist. Money raised from the show will be donated to organizations around the world that promote religious and cultural tolerance. The Artist immediately accepted to participate.

However – the major benefit event on October 9th featuring many famous artists, including The Artist, Celine Dion, Lenny Kravitz and others – the show was postponed because, according to the organizers, more time was needed to plan for the TV broadcast. The show was expected to be broadcast on TV and a CD and video to be released.

The Artist was also expected to make a promotional appearance on the Tonight Show starring Jay Leno on October 8th, but this appearance is now uncertain as well.

Parties at Paisley Park...

A few late-night parties took place at Paisley Park during the July–September period. Dates included July 11th, August 12th, September 5th and 10th. The Artist appeared and tracks were played from the upcoming Crystal Ball and The Truth over the sound system, as well the new remixes of "Jam Of The Year," "Face Down," and "Holy River." The Artist also performed during the September 5th party. The September 10th party was a benefit concert for the Minneapolis mayor's re-election campaign.

New protégé: Marva King...

Marva King, a former backing vocalist for Stevie Wonder, is The Artist's newest discovery and they have been working on studio tracks together. She has also become a regular feature in The Artist's shows and aftershows. A full album might be released soon.

No Doubt in Minneapolis...

The Artist and Mayte attended a No Doubt concert in early July in Minneapolis. All the members of the band later joined The Artist and members of the NPG for an impromptu jam session at Paisley Park Studios. The band is expected to open some dates on The Artist's Jam Of The Year tour.

Emancipation "Best R&B album" at MPLS Awards...

The Minneapolis Music Awards ceremony (not to be confused with the Black Music Awards ceremony held in June) took place on July 18th. The Artist won the award for "Best R&B album of the year" with Emancipation.

"Pain"

Chaka Khan has recorded "Pain," a song written by Prince and N. Channison Berry for the Living Single TV show. The Living Single soundtrack album was released on September 30th and MeShell NdegéOcello takes part in the track.

Collaborations

The Artist and Larry Graham have been recording together at Paisley Park this autumn/winter for a new Larry Graham and Graham Central Station album. The Artist actually showed the CD case during the December 9th Minneapolis KMSP-TV interview (see elsewhere in this issue).

NPG flyers...

A flyer was distributed during the December 28th 1996 Paisley Park concert and other concerts on The Love 4 One Another Charities Tour. The text is as follows: "Welcome 2 the Dawn. As 1999 approaches, perhaps we should take this time 2 ponder the questions. ...why did we come 2 earth? ...what have we learned in our lifetime? ...what will we mean 2 the future generations? ...what might our true names be? Thank U 4 sharing this time with us. Your love is the best present we could ever expect on this earth. Peace and B wild, 4 ever. The Artist and the New Power Generation. Suggested reading: your own heart, The Seat Of The Soul by Gary Zukav, Cleanse And Purify Thyself by Dr. Richard Anderson, Embraced By The Light by Betty Eadie, The Bible (with an open and metaphorical mind). 2 become a part of the New Power Generation call 1-800-NEW-FUNK 4 details. We are the one, we are the many. Love."

After the Love 4 One Another shows in Birmingham and Atlanta, people in attendance were handed a new NPG flyer which mentioned the possibility of ordering a live recording of the show: "Share the Xperience. Would U like 2 be a part of the New Power Generation? Would U like 2 own the music of the concert U r about 2 witness? 2 find out how... fill out this form and send in a postmarked envelope 2: NPG, P.O. Box 188, Chanhassen, MN 55317. Your name/Your address/Your tele#. Or call 1-800-NEW-FUNK."

1-800-NEW-FUNK products and information...

The 1-800-NEW-FUNK order line is currently very active and selling various clothing and jewelry items, along with music items, books and sets of photographs. The NPG flyer that was handed out in Hawaii in February and mailed to various people in Europe and beyond, has also appeared as an advertisement for 1-800-NEW-FUNK in various US and English music and computer publications, including Wired, Entertainment Weekly, Vibe, NME and Melody Maker. The voice-mail system has been improved and now guides you through a list of menu options. It is still sometimes difficult to get hold of a live operator (you often need to dial the appropriate number several times), but the operation of the system seems to be more efficient than before.

As of June 5th, 1997, the following products are currently available or can be pre-ordered from 1-800-NEW-FUNK:

Moon Earwrap (sterling silver) ($80)
Wave Earwrap (sterling silver) ($50)
NYC cassette ($20)
Kamasutra cassette ($25)
Emancipation lyric book ($20)
Emancipation hats ($20)
Emancipation T-shirts ($17)
White "BRR" parka as seen in the "Betcha By Golly Wow" video ($400 with optional customized name)
The Truth CD-single ($15)
The Artist Picture Set (5 pieces) ($40)
Mr. Happy and Emancipation boxers ($30)
NPG hockey jersey in various colours ($110)
Gold pendant with leather strap ($35)
Silver pendant with leather strap ($25)
Silver bracelet ($90)
Face Down T-shirt
Symbol Letterman's jacket ($275 and up)
The life-size stand-up that was available for a limited time at $100 a piece is currently sold out.

Some older items are still available from 1-800-NEW-FUNK:

Child of the Sun– Mayte
GoldNigga– N.P.G.
Exodus– N.P.G.
The Sacrifice of Victor picture book hardcover ($50)
The Sacrifice of Victor picture book softcover ($25)
319 keychain (approx. $15)
NPG coffee mug (approx. $15)
Neo Manifesto book ($14,95)

1-800-NEW-FUNK started taking pre-orders for the Crystal Ball compilation of previously bootlegged material in early May. According to 1-800-NEW-FUNK operators, at press time The Artist still hadn't decided whether the CD set would be three CDs or more. The three-CD set is initially priced at $50 but if an additional CD is included, the price will be slightly higher. The definite release date for the CD set is not known either.

The infamous "MPLS/The Ryde Dyvine" CD-single was reportedly available at some point but is said to be currently out of stock. 1-800-NEW-FUNK has also confirmed that the "official" NPG Magazine is no longer in circulation and that there will be no subscription refunds. A total of four issues were released over the course of two years.

Some fans received a special offer through the mail with the regular NPG flyer, including a discount coupon for mail orders only that offered a 15% discount for purchases $50 and over.

The international number for 1-800-NEW-FUNK is 1-612-474-1751. Orders can also be faxed with all necessary information (including credit card number) to 1-612-474-0862. You may order with a money order by mail by sending the money order and necessary info to: New Power Generation, P.O. Box 188, Chanhassen, Minnesota, 55317, USA.

Love 4 One Another and 1-800-NEW-FUNK web sites...

On March 6th, the following message was sent by The Artist's Internet messenger, BedIScream@aol.com, to a variety of people involved in The Artist-related activities on the Internet (including UPTOWN), "Hello 2 U all. Each of U has contributed 2 the presence of 'Prince'/The Artist on the World Wide Web in your own way. Whether by providing information, lines of communication, or simply sharing your thoughts & feelings about The Artist's music, career, & influence. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed. The reason 4 this message is 2 ask 4 your assistance in a major project. Love 4 One Another needs a Website. Designed, financed, & supported by the Friends of The Artist... all of U & the 'fans'/friends who follow U. Major recording sessions are planned 4 this month, & free music will be given 2 all who participate. So, the time is now! Please begin 2 coordinate your efforts with one another on what can become a Beautiful thing 4 a Beautiful purpose... 2 show Love 4 One Another. As a group we can show people what can be done when we are 2gether. Please start sharing your ideas & suggestions with us & each other as soon as U can. As things fall in2 place e-male this address with your input. Hena2000 planted the seed & will supply Purple Rain & Sonshine. Who will fill The Garden? Let's Work!!!!! B Free, B Wild, Peace."

This message triggered an immediate and enthusiastic reaction in the online The Artist community. People from various horizons, training, and culture will work together to create an online web site that promotes the "Love 4 One Another" charities set up by the Artist to the general public.

The Love 4 One Another web site, which is designed by a group of on-line The Artist followers after The Artist launched the idea through his Internet messenger "BedIScream," and looks more and more like it might become a replacement for The Artist's currently unavailable The Dawn web site, as well as a place promoting The Artist's Love 4 One Another charity concept in various forms, opened in May 1997 at the following URL:

<http://www.love4oneanother.com>).

The site designers were provided with an exclusive new logo created by The Artist and Steve Parke. A news section entitled "The Future" with exclusive news snippets coming from The Artist's entourage. It also includes sound samples of unreleased material, excerpts from the upcoming Crystal Ball release, as well as new songs such as "(I Like) Funky Music," "Funk Radio," "Sadomasochistic Groove," "Shoo Be Doo," and a remix of "Jam Of The Year" featuring a rap by The Artist and Doug E. Fresh. The site also presents poetry written by The Artist fans.

You will also find information about the N.P.G.'s "X-periment in Truth" intended to gather information for a database of The Artist friends and a link to the Crystal Ball order page, which is part of the new 1-800-NEW-FUNK web site at <http://www.1800newfunk.com>.

The Artist has been heavily promoting the on-line aspect of his activities lately, with interviews with Yahoo! magazine, USA Today's on-line web site <http://www.usatoday.com> and an exclusive two-part TV interview on CNN that showcased the Love 4 One Another web site. The Internet and the World Wide Web in particular are becoming more and more important in The Artist's activities and "off-line" The Artist followers are strongly encouraged to do whatever they can to join these activities.

Interviews...

As part of his public relations efforts to promote the Love 4 One Another project and the upcoming releases of Crystal Ball and The Truth, The Artist appeared on US cable news TV station CNN for a two-part interview on July 29th and 30th. The interview did not feature much new information for The Artist followers but was important in that CNN reaches a great many households in the US and beyond.

The Artist also appeared officially for the first time ever on America On Line for a chat with followers on July 21st, following his Detroit concert. Reportedly, over 700,000 people tried to join the chat, which caused a temporary breakdown at AOL and a two-hour delay.

All interviews are listed in our series in UPTOWN magazine.

Crystal Ball...

One of the latest news items provided by The Artist through the Love 4 One Another web site is that "preliminary mixdown is complete on the Crystal Ball package." The package is expected to be three CDs and 30 songs. Tracks slated for inclusion are the 1985–86 outtakes "Moviestar," "Sexual Suicide", and "Crucial," as well as many more recent compositions: "Calhoun Square," "Hide The Bone," "18 & Over," "What's My Name?," "Poom Poom," Shock G's Silky Smoove Remix of "Lovesign," "Dabang," "2morrow," and a live version of "Days Of Wild [Free The Slave]." Many of the tracks are well-known amongst fans and collectors. Another song planned for inclusion is "Cloreen Baconskin," which is a 1983 outtake, recorded with Morris Day and Jesse Johnson during sessions for The Time's Ice Cream Castle.

Reportedly, 84,000 pre-orders for Crystal Ball have been received by 1-800-NEW-FUNK as of the end of September and the manufacturing process has reportedly been initiated. The Artist's goal is still to reach 100,000 pre-orders before the set is released. It will be released in a crystal ball-shaped translucid package and will likely including no booklet, as The Artist intends to have a web site specifically designed by The Artist followers to provide artwork and information on the tracks. It is still not clear whether the CD-set will include 3 or 4 CDs. The acoustic CD The Truth will be given away for free to all those who pre-ordered Crystal Ball. It is currently circulating on tape amongst collectors.

It was announced on the Love 4 One Another website [http://www.love4oneanother.com] that the long-awaited Crystal Ball three-CD set would probably arrive before Christmas to those who had pre-ordered. However, it still has not been released and no release date has been set. On December 30th, it was announced on Love 4 One Another, "CRYSTAL BALLERS– 2 assist in distribution, a major retail outlet has xpressed interest... 4 now they shall go unnamed... every1 who ordered the Crystal Ball, please b patient... shipping will b gin when the nal details r worked out with this distributor. The Artist wants it available everywhere when the mailing starts... there is now an added surprise 4 the friends who pre-ordered early! 1-800-NewFunk will deliver... naysayers will eat words on toast when the Ball drops!"

At the time of writing (mid-January 1998), noone really knows when and how Crystal Ball will be released. The fact that The Artist "wants it available everywhere when the mailing starts" indicates that it is going to be available in stores before people who have since long pre-ordered copies will get the record, which surely will disappoint many.

The Truth album...

The highly anticipated The Truth acoustic album is completed. The track list and accompanying text have surfaced:

truth

\'tru:th\ n. 1. The quality or state of being true 2. Fidelity to an original or standard 3. Reality; actuality 4. A statement that accords with fact or reality 5. Sincerity; integrity

THE TRUTH
this side: 1. The Truth/ 2. Don't Play Me/ 3. Circle Of Amour/ 4. 3rd Eye/ 5. Dionne/ 6. Man In A Uniform

the other side: 1. Animal Kingdom/ 2. The Other Side Of The Pillow/ 3. Fascination/ 4. One, Of Your Tears/ 5. Comeback/ 6. Welcome 2 The dawn (acoustic version)

Ultimately the only one that can save U is U your God is inside and 4 that God U will do whatever it takes in this self-pity so dark this sh*tty and stark realization it all that will soothe.

Produced, Arranged, Composed and Performed
by NPG Records

With K. Dyson, Mike Scott, and help from Hans.

Released date: Unknown.

Message from another: Don't judge someone you don't know. People who talk bad about another usually do so out of jealousy, insecurity or plain evilness. Life is too short wasting our time worrying about someone else. Be the best at what you do and all will fall into place. Never underestimate something you don't understand. They nailed Jesus to a cross, burnt witches who were not evil, lynch-mobs killed people because of their differences... Will you be the leader or take part in the next crucifixion? Get to know someone personally before you speak of them. You never know, you may become best friends. We could all use another friend in the end. Right?

The album cover has The Artist looking over his right shoulder. Inside is a picture of The Artist in a pin-striped suit, legs crossed, playing an acoustic guitar. The song titled "Animal Kingdom" was also mentioned by The Artist during a recent interview with Canada's MuchMusic TV station on the occasion of his concert in Toronto.

The Artist's Internet messenger "BedIScream" initially announced by mistake that, on May 2nd, a limited number of cassette copies of the album would be released through 1-800-NEW-FUNK. This information was denied as a "rumour" by 1-800-NEW-FUNK before BedIScream sent out a second message correcting the information. There are also reports that the reason why the release of the album is being delayed is because EMI is considering distributing it.

Review.

Around The World In A Day ballet by NPG Dance Company...

Mayte held auditions on August 12th in New York, for dancers for a new dance show mixing ballet and hip-hop dancing.

Headed by Mayte, the NPG Dance Company debuted with their show entitled Around The World In A Day on October 17th at the Music Hall in Detroit (with The Artist in attendance). Mayte is the director of the dance company, which comprises 21 dancers, and she has designed the lighting and done some choreographing.

Following the Detroit premiere, further performances took place in Rockford (Illinois), October 18th, Milwaukee (Wisconsin), October 20th, Phoenix (Arizona), October 28th, and San Diego (California), November 1st. The last show was half-empty, so people holding the cheaper tickets were asked to move into the more expensive seating section closer to the stage. The NPG Dance Company has received many favourable notices, but due to insufcient advertising and overall promotion some of the performances have sold rather poorly. After taking a break, the dance company plans to return and continue the tour in February 1998.

Divided into three acts and with one encore, the Around The World In A Day performance lasted about 90 minutes. The dancers perform to an array of The Artist/Prince songs and the dancers have stage-names taken from The Artist song titles. Act 1 included an intro made up of snippets from "Kiss," "When Doves Cry," "Let's Go Crazy," and "1999," followed by: "Around The World In A Day, "Darling Nikki," "Girls And Boys," "Electric Chair," "Pop Life," a brief "When Doves Cry" leading into "Tell Me How You Wanna Be Done" (from "Purple Medley" single), "Curious Child," "Dreamin' About U," "Diamonds And Pearls," and "Sleep Around." Act 2 was performed to the Kamasutra ballet, while act 3 featured: "New World," "The Human Body," "One Of Your Tears" (from The Truth), "Kiss," "Courtin' Time," "Gett Off" ("Houstyle" mix). The encore was "New Power Generation."

Art display...

The April 1997 issue of German magazine Max contained nine pictures of paintings inspired by The Artist's music and Love 4 One Another concept that were displayed from April 19th to May 3rd in an art gallery in Cologne, Germany. The art works are expected to travel Europe, after which they will be sold in an auction and all the money will be donated to the Love 4 One Another charity fund established by The Artist.

The Artist himself was not present at the official opening of the exhibit but sent a thank-you note that read:

"Eye am genuinely moved 2 hear
that people have found inspiration
through my art 2 conceive THEIR OWN.
Eye deeply regret not being able 2 attend,
but extend my warmest regards 2 everyone involved.
THANK U 4 honoring me.
Creative freedom has always been the cornerstone
of my existence and the mother of all my inventions.
Eye look forward 2 seeing u all soon.
F r e e d o m i s a b e a u t i f u l t h i n g

The Artist"

Theme song of Bryant Gumbel's new show...

The Artist announced in mid-June that negotiations are currently under way for him to write the theme song for Bryant Gumbel's new CBS TV show that will start this fall. Bryant Gumbel is the former co-host of NBC's Today Show, which he left back in January 1997. The Artist had appeared live several times on the program, including during Bryant Gumbel's farewell program.

However, it has now been reported that Bryant Gumbel turned down the song. A CBS-insider said in TV-Guide, "It was simply too funky for a news show." The Artist on the other hand issued this statement on his website Love 4 One Another, "The Artist has declined the offer from Bryant Gumbel 2 compose the theme song 2 his new show, citing a conflict of ideas. The Artist was quoted as saying 'Bryant was looking 4 music that didn't compete with the pictures that one saw, but 2 me that's like making perfume without scent! Bryant and I r still cool, and I am condent he'll come up with something sharp.'"

Gianni Versace shot dead in Miami...

Gianni Versace was shot dead in front of his property in Miami, Florida, on July 15th in the morning. Versace was a world famous Italian fashion designer whose admirers included many musicians. The Artist was one of them. Pictures of him wearing Versace-designed clothes appeared in various publications in 1995–1996 and again in a Versace coffee book published last year. The Artist also recorded a promotional cassette entitled The Versace Experience – Prelude 2 Gold with some exclusive music to be played during presentations of Versace clothes. The name of the designer is also included in The Artist's rap in the Exodus track "Get Wild" and again in "White Mansion" on Emancipation. Versace was 50 years old.

The Artist talked a bit about Versace during his July 22nd press conference, "His clothes were amazing, his style was amazing. I stayed in his house on Lake Cuomo a while ago and, I must be honest, I was quite frightened there and I stayed up all night. It was a little spooky. There was nobody there but me, I believe, and some servants in some part of the house. And this was a long time ago. I've got to be honest though, I didn't know him that well. I only met him briefly and he is as shy as I am when it comes to meeting new people. So we had very few words. His sister on the other hand, Donatella, I know quite well, and she was the one who was with me during the shoot that I did for their campaign. I'm saddened any time a human being assaults another one in that fashion. It's saddening."

UPTOWN, DAYS OF WILD and TURN IT UP 2.0 are in no way endorsed by, sponsored by, sanctioned by, authorized by, affiliated with or connected with Paisley Park Enterprises, Prince Rogers Nelson or NPG Records.  © 2001 UPTOWN (unless otherwise noted). No portion may be reproduced without permission in writing from UPTOWN.