B
THE ROYAL GEAR
OF PRINCE
ROGERS NELSON
This article originally appeared in Andy’s Corner, 2012
orn Prince Rogers Nelson in 1958, Prince became a driving force in the pop scene
in the ‘80’s. His interest in music began early in life and in 1978 he released his debut
album For You at just 17 years old. This was quickly followed up in 1979 with his platinum
sophomore release Prince.
From there, his success continued with his next three albums, as well as the release of
the Purple Rain and its accompanying soundtrack. Prince was giving even Michael Jackson
a run for airtime on MTV and his controversial lyrics and erotic live show continued to
keep him in the spotlight. Besides his multi-instrumental talent, he is also has produced
artists such as Sheila E., Carmen Electra, the Time, and Vanity 6. Throughout his career, he
has been controversial and enigmatic, from pushing the boundaries of public decency to
changing his name to a symbol; Prince has kept himself in the public eye despite a slump
in album sales in the mid ‘90s.
Words by Wallace Thrasher
ToneReport.com
45