This 1995 studio album by the artist formerly known as Prince is a concept record focusing on the music industry’s exploitation of artists and the pursuit of artistic and sexual freedom. The release followed a contentious period with Warner Bros. Records, during which the artist publicly criticized the label’s control over his music.
The album is significant for its blending of funk, soul, rock, and pop elements, showcasing the artist’s wide-ranging musical capabilities. Its release was deliberately provocative, arriving at a time of intense public scrutiny surrounding the artist’s name change and his fight for control over his master recordings. It represented a significant artistic statement and a challenge to established industry norms, making a powerful statement about artist autonomy.
