I'm Here 2 Talk About C O N T R O V E R S Y! (31 Years) Since's I missed last year's 30th; This is the time 2 discuss it!

Controversy is the fourth full-length studio album by Prince. It was released worldwide in October, 1981 (twelve months after his previous album, Dirty Mind).

The album produced four commercially-released singles, Controversy, Let's Work, Do Me, Baby and Sexuality (released in Germany, Australia and Japan only). Prince toured extensively in the USA to support the album on the Controversy Tour, which largely focused on the album.

The album reached number 21 on the US Billboard Top LPS and Tapes Chart and number 3 for 8 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Soul LPs Chart. On 14 January, 1982 Controversy was certified gold by the RIAA, indicating 500,000 copies shipped in the USA. On 11 January, 1985, it was certified platinum, indicating 1,000,000 copies shipped in the USA.

Specific recording dates for most of the album's tracks are not known. Do Me, Baby was initially recorded in February, 1979, and was written by André Cymone (although it was credited to Prince on the album). The version included on the album is a re-recording from the album sessions, however, which took place in Spring and Summer 1981, at Prince's Kiowa Trail Home Studio, Chanhassen, MN, USA and Hollywood Sound Recorders, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

The album was completed at Sunset Sound, Hollywood, CA, USA, between 14-23 August, 1981. Let's Work had initially been recorded in Spring or Summer 1981 as Let's Rock, named after a dance Prince had seen in clubs during the summer of 1981, and Prince wanted to release it as a single immediately after recording. Warner Bros. declined, and while Prince liked the track, he felt it needed to be renamed when released to avoid it seeming dated.

Private Joy was the last song recorded, on 16 August, 1981 at Sunset Sound, during a week of final work on the album, following some equipment problems at nearby Hollywood Sound Recorders (marking the first Prince track recorded at Sunset Sound, where Prince would continue to work throughout the 1980s, and return again in 2008).

Controversy was largely a solo recording project by Prince, although Bobby Z. (drums), Lisa Coleman (keyboards and background vocals) and Dr. Fink (keyboards) all appear on the final track, Jack U Off. Additionally, Lisa Coleman also sings background vocals on Controversy and Ronnie Talk To Russia.
-Prince Vault

'Controversy' was more of an answer 2 controversy rather it being itself controversial. IMO "Am I black or white, or am I straight or gay?" Prior 2 how Prince dressed at the time & humping and licking his guitar he was considered 'normal'. His lyricism never reflected a disbelief in God. But if U recall; Gail Chapman left his band due 2 religious beliefs & I believe somewhat else did 2.

I'd Love 2 know your thoughts!!! DO U find it controversial, and do U resonate with the period Prince was in during this time? Considering it's a solo project 4 the most part, do U understand the direction of his creative nucleus?

THANKS PURPLE PEOPLE!

ok you asked here it goes, I was twenty in 81 already in love with my man Prince. had all of his previous stuff, still have soft and wet on 45...anyway at this time in my life I was going out dancing every weekend and rollier skating during the weekdays. i was driving a 74 brown pinto with a moon roof, I would roll up in the parking lot (of the roller rink) blazing that album, from beginning to end. I also remember that the Gap Band had "outstanding" out about that time. but lilltle did I know how much that album would become a major part of the soundtrack to my young life. "let's work" was the "i have to dance to this song" song . if I was in the barthroom or in the parking lot I would run in and grab the first guy I saw and said. Let's dance...oh yes so many fond memories of all these great songs. Love, just love Controversy the song till this day...it sounds sooooooo good played very loud. Do me baby...Yeah he went a little out there, but who cares? it's Prince. and I love it. Jack u off who would even dare? well we know that answer. This is in my top 3, it may be number 1, depending on how I'm feeling, but this is classic Prince, doing it all and giving his all and I'm still receiving it all.............nuff said!.. thanks for letting me reminise and share about the good ol'days!!!

and oh yeah, I had that poster on my wall and went to sleep a many a night with fantansies that i dare not post. I still have that same poster put up...thanks eyejester, keep up the good work...I love your commentary..........with much love, ...chriss... and ps I went the concert for this tour and it was my very first time seeing him (San Francisco civic auditorium) and I've been hooked ever since. I got a guitar pick of his that says "God" from Miko Weaver when we were trying to get in backstage after the show...(I still have those picks as well)...or maybe that was the Jesse Johnson show in Sacramento, anyway what great memories...

EyeJester7 said:

I'm Here 2 Talk About C O N T R O V E R S Y! (31 Years) Since's I missed last year's 30th; This is the time 2 discuss it!

Controversy is the fourth full-length studio album by Prince. It was released worldwide in October, 1981 (twelve months after his previous album, Dirty Mind).

The album produced four commercially-released singles, Controversy, Let's Work, Do Me, Baby and Sexuality (released in Germany, Australia and Japan only). Prince toured extensively in the USA to support the album on the Controversy Tour, which largely focused on the album.

The album reached number 21 on the US Billboard Top LPS and Tapes Chart and number 3 for 8 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Soul LPs Chart. On 14 January, 1982 Controversy was certified gold by the RIAA, indicating 500,000 copies shipped in the USA. On 11 January, 1985, it was certified platinum, indicating 1,000,000 copies shipped in the USA.

Specific recording dates for most of the album's tracks are not known. Do Me, Baby was initially recorded in February, 1979, and was written by André Cymone (although it was credited to Prince on the album). The version included on the album is a re-recording from the album sessions, however, which took place in Spring and Summer 1981, at Prince's Kiowa Trail Home Studio, Chanhassen, MN, USA and Hollywood Sound Recorders, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

The album was completed at Sunset Sound, Hollywood, CA, USA, between 14-23 August, 1981. Let's Work had initially been recorded in Spring or Summer 1981 as Let's Rock, named after a dance Prince had seen in clubs during the summer of 1981, and Prince wanted to release it as a single immediately after recording. Warner Bros. declined, and while Prince liked the track, he felt it needed to be renamed when released to avoid it seeming dated.

Private Joy was the last song recorded, on 16 August, 1981 at Sunset Sound, during a week of final work on the album, following some equipment problems at nearby Hollywood Sound Recorders (marking the first Prince track recorded at Sunset Sound, where Prince would continue to work throughout the 1980s, and return again in 2008).

Controversy was largely a solo recording project by Prince, although Bobby Z. (drums), Lisa Coleman (keyboards and background vocals) and Dr. Fink (keyboards) all appear on the final track, Jack U Off. Additionally, Lisa Coleman also sings background vocals on Controversy and Ronnie Talk To Russia.
-Prince Vault

'Controversy' was more of an answer 2 controversy rather it being itself controversial. IMO "Am I black or white, or am I straight or gay?" Prior 2 how Prince dressed at the time & humping and licking his guitar he was considered 'normal'. His lyricism never reflected a disbelief in God. But if U recall; Gail Chapman left his band due 2 religious beliefs & I believe somewhat else did 2.

I'd Love 2 know your thoughts!!! DO U find it controversial, and do U resonate with the period Prince was in during this time? Considering it's a solo project 4 the most part, do U understand the direction of his creative nucleus?

THANKS PURPLE PEOPLE!

Controversy,

a classic Prince album.

I was so excited in 1985 when I got this vinyl as a birthday present from my girlfriend.

Especially side 1, wow.. the title track was pure dope and Sexuality was so hot with those electronic drums, this song sounded like nothing else at the time.

Do Me Baby closing side 1, was another epic and hot ballad, with a naughty Prince moaning "I'm so cold".

I love this fine album, it's a classic. Side 2 is maybe not as strong, but it still is very funky.

Private Joy, Annie Christian and Jack U Off.... and Let's Work. I truely love the raw funk sound on these tracks.

Only minus to Controversy is that Ronnie song, I guess most of us can agree this song is a weak track, imagine Extralovable instead of Ronnie, then this album would have been perfect..

9.5/ 10 imo.

Love this album. i actually perfer it over Dirty Mind (yeah, yeah I know I'm solo on this). Great set up to 1999

larksanders said:

Love this album. i actually perfer it over Dirty Mind (yeah, yeah I know I'm solo on this). Great set up to 1999

NO; you're not solo on that! It's much better than Dirty Mind to me.. as well!

chriss said:

ok you asked here it goes, I was twenty in 81 already in love with my man Prince. had all of his previous stuff, still have soft and wet on 45...anyway at this time in my life I was going out dancing every weekend and rollier skating during the weekdays. i was driving a 74 brown pinto with a moon roof, I would roll up in the parking lot (of the roller rink) blazing that album, from beginning to end. I also remember that the Gap Band had "outstanding" out about that time. but lilltle did I know how much that album would become a major part of the soundtrack to my young life. "let's work" was the "i have to dance to this song" song . if I was in the barthroom or in the parking lot I would run in and grab the first guy I saw and said. Let's dance...oh yes so many fond memories of all these great songs. Love, just love Controversy the song till this day...it sounds sooooooo good played very loud. Do me baby...Yeah he went a little out there, but who cares? it's Prince. and I love it. Jack u off who would even dare? well we know that answer. This is in my top 3, it may be number 1, depending on how I'm feeling, but this is classic Prince, doing it all and giving his all and I'm still receiving it all.............nuff said!.. thanks for letting me reminise and share about the good ol'days!!!

and oh yeah, I had that poster on my wall and went to sleep a many a night with fantansies that i dare not post. I still have that same poster put up...thanks eyejester, keep up the good work...I love your commentary..........with much love, ...chriss... and ps I went the concert for this tour and it was my very first time seeing him (San Francisco civic auditorium) and I've been hooked ever since. I got a guitar pick of his that says "God" from Miko Weaver when we were trying to get in backstage after the show...(I still have those picks as well)...or maybe that was the Jesse Johnson show in Sacramento, anyway what great memories...

EyeJester7 said:

I'm Here 2 Talk About C O N T R O V E R S Y! (31 Years) Since's I missed last year's 30th; This is the time 2 discuss it!

Controversy is the fourth full-length studio album by Prince. It was released worldwide in October, 1981 (twelve months after his previous album, Dirty Mind).

The album produced four commercially-released singles, Controversy, Let's Work, Do Me, Baby and Sexuality (released in Germany, Australia and Japan only). Prince toured extensively in the USA to support the album on the Controversy Tour, which largely focused on the album.

The album reached number 21 on the US Billboard Top LPS and Tapes Chart and number 3 for 8 consecutive weeks on the Billboard Soul LPs Chart. On 14 January, 1982 Controversy was certified gold by the RIAA, indicating 500,000 copies shipped in the USA. On 11 January, 1985, it was certified platinum, indicating 1,000,000 copies shipped in the USA.

Specific recording dates for most of the album's tracks are not known. Do Me, Baby was initially recorded in February, 1979, and was written by André Cymone (although it was credited to Prince on the album). The version included on the album is a re-recording from the album sessions, however, which took place in Spring and Summer 1981, at Prince's Kiowa Trail Home Studio, Chanhassen, MN, USA and Hollywood Sound Recorders, Los Angeles, CA, USA.

The album was completed at Sunset Sound, Hollywood, CA, USA, between 14-23 August, 1981. Let's Work had initially been recorded in Spring or Summer 1981 as Let's Rock, named after a dance Prince had seen in clubs during the summer of 1981, and Prince wanted to release it as a single immediately after recording. Warner Bros. declined, and while Prince liked the track, he felt it needed to be renamed when released to avoid it seeming dated.

Private Joy was the last song recorded, on 16 August, 1981 at Sunset Sound, during a week of final work on the album, following some equipment problems at nearby Hollywood Sound Recorders (marking the first Prince track recorded at Sunset Sound, where Prince would continue to work throughout the 1980s, and return again in 2008).

Controversy was largely a solo recording project by Prince, although Bobby Z. (drums), Lisa Coleman (keyboards and background vocals) and Dr. Fink (keyboards) all appear on the final track, Jack U Off. Additionally, Lisa Coleman also sings background vocals on Controversy and Ronnie Talk To Russia.
-Prince Vault

'Controversy' was more of an answer 2 controversy rather it being itself controversial. IMO "Am I black or white, or am I straight or gay?" Prior 2 how Prince dressed at the time & humping and licking his guitar he was considered 'normal'. His lyricism never reflected a disbelief in God. But if U recall; Gail Chapman left his band due 2 religious beliefs & I believe somewhat else did 2.

I'd Love 2 know your thoughts!!! DO U find it controversial, and do U resonate with the period Prince was in during this time? Considering it's a solo project 4 the most part, do U understand the direction of his creative nucleus?

THANKS PURPLE PEOPLE!

Wonderful Story! Thanks for sharing! I really enjoyed everything you had to say here! Very cool to hear where you was when all of this went down! I imagine how awesome it was to be around the release of this album! Thank you for the words of encouragement! It means a lot to me and I thank you again! It MUST have been great to see him live as well! AHH! For the first time! I imagine it was simply crazy!!! Haha..I would have loved to be there! Getting the pic too! What a fantastic adventure! I appreciate the time you put into this post! I really thank you!

Looking sharp, Jesse! I love this album. I could listen to the first four songs on loop and never tire of them. There's something kind of campy in Prince's punk attitude. His vocal delivery in for example Sexuality (the 3 minus 3 part then when he says "absolutely nothing") and in Private Joy (the "Joy! Joy! Joy!" starting around 2:30 followed by a ridiculous scream) OMG, he has me cracking up! This album is just so fun, brash, and gritty. And to end it all with Jack U Off? The "That's right!" around 2:25...buahaha... Thanks for the video!

larksanders said:

Love this album. i actually perfer it over Dirty Mind (yeah, yeah I know I'm solo on this). Great set up to 1999

You're not alone. I've seen many on here favoring it. And one could easily say that it's more produced and polished than Dirty Mind. Personally i love Controversy, but I favor Dirty Mind. Controversy sounds more randomly put together considering the combinaton of songs/sound/feel. I think Controversy was Prince perfecting the sound of Dirty Mind, as well as introducing new things that we would hear more of on 1999. It was more bridging the gap between Dirty Mind and 1999, rather than having a great concept. I often find myself skipping from Dirty Mind to 1999 if listening to the albums in chronological order. But I love songs like Sexuality, Jack U Off, Do Me Baby, Controversy and Private Joy. One of his great albums, but not among the absolute greatest imo. He could actually make a double album with Dirty Mind plus the songs I mentioned if they were mixed with in a more similar way, except maybe private joy with it's easily noticable programmed sound.

loving your threads EyeJester, love controversy, definately an album that stands on its own but explores Dirty Minds ideals and prepares us for 1999

Before I heard the album, a radio station would play a mix of snippets of Prince's music and I always came away with a feeling of danger lurking, the music always felt lascivious

the chanting of the Lord prayer, the wicked guitar from Private Joy in2 Ronnie Talk 2 Russia

its the opening bass of Let's Work that lascivious comes 2 mind, Annie Christian was creepy in a good way like there was some real story of some underground criminal activity

Jack U Off rocks, I turn that one up and understand why recording with a band makes sense

the New Wave wildness of Sexuality & Ronnie Talk 2 Russie, I love every live version of this one, Do Me Baby always felt like being a voyeur into someones bedroom

Tick Tick Band should have been a Bside

http://en.wikipedia.org/w...nce_album) says that BrownMark played bass on Let's Work and Dez played guitar on the album

Prince did indicate in 1990 that alot of those albums weren't always credited with the people who performed on them so...

Really nice video EyeJester.

You present very clearly and calmly and you dress really snappily (ie. well). You have an engaging presence on camera. Have you ever considered going into TV presenting? I could imagine Prince requesting someone like you to interview him.

Some good points. I would agree that he often mixes the sacred with the profane.

I always felt Jack U Off sounded like the thing you would do to a man and not a woman, but I guess he is referring to a woman!!! Very risque!!

My favourites are the title track...Controversy....this thumping bassline is so funky and Do, Me Baby, I love this long version and I love the unusual addition of the gong at the end, as if to say 'Time's up', morning has come...

Private Joy has grown on me, it's very catchy.

I agree with the above poster who said that Ronnie Talk To Russia is probably the weakest track (although it could be because it seems out of date now, at the time it probably would have sounded very cool and relevant esp. in light of the nuclear threat), Extraloveable would have been an excellent replacement, although this was recorded later in 1982, instead I would suggest Hard to Get '81 - I love this.

Good observation about Sexuality sharing many similarities with Controversy.

Interestingly, Rihanna recently came out with a song called Sexuality which was almost identical to Prince's Controversy!

http://www.youtube.com/wa...BYP8TJacTE

[Edited 10/10/12 13:42pm]

[Edited 10/10/12 13:44pm]

I remember my older sister bought this album on a Sunday.I faked being "sick" the next day,just so I could stay home from school to listen to it all day

"Private Joy" is my favorite Great album,great era!

TheFreakerFantastic said:

Really nice video EyeJester.

You present very clearly and calmly and you dress really snappily (ie. well). You have an engaging presence on camera. Have you ever considered going into TV presenting? I could imagine Prince requesting someone like you to interview him.

Some good points. I would agree that he often mixes the sacred with the profane.

I always felt Jack U Off sounded like the thing you would do to a man and not a woman, but I guess he is referring to a woman!!! Very risque!!

My favourites are the title track...Controversy....this thumping bassline is so funky and Do, Me Baby, I love this long version and I love the unusual addition of the gong at the end, as if to say 'Time's up', morning has come...

Private Joy has grown on me, it's very catchy.

I agree with the above poster who said that Ronnie Talk To Russia is probably the weakest track (although it could be because it seems out of date now, at the time it probably would have sounded very cool and relevant esp. in light of the nuclear threat), Extraloveable would have been an excellent replacement, although this was recorded later in 1982, instead I would suggest Hard to Get '81 - I love this.

Good observation about Sexuality sharing many similarities with Controversy.

Interestingly, Rihanna recently came out with a song called Sexuality which was almost identical to Prince's Controversy!

http://www.youtube.com/wa...BYP8TJacTE

[Edited 10/10/12 13:42pm]

[Edited 10/10/12 13:44pm]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your comments! It really made me smile and encouraged me! Thanks again! I have actually thought about being an interviewer; that's something I always wanted to pursue, in fact that is what I will go to school for to study in depth. I appreciate the compliment on my dress as well! It would be an honor to interview Prince! I couldn't even imagine the awesomeness of that!

I appreciate your points delivered! I also thought about 'Jack U Off' being something the girl often does' it's unique how Prince turned the tables on that one! The Sacred and profane was often the mix which brought the controversy and the level of shock in value. Interesting note about the gong at the end...when I first heard that...I thought I had a bad copy of a song. lol. It could mean that Prince wanted to represent a new morning!

Ronnie Talk To Russia is about the weakest track in a sense. BUT I love the guitar intro in the beginning. It sounds so EDGE AND Just has the rock like no one else can bring it!

AND thanks for the link! I wanted to mention that in the video! Rihanna is obviously inspired by Prince, and this song is such a strong reasoning with that fact! For sure! I hear the similarities strongly!

thedance said:

Controversy,

a classic Prince album.

I was so excited in 1985 when I got this vinyl as a birthday present from my girlfriend.

Especially side 1, wow.. the title track was pure dope and Sexuality was so hot with those electronic drums, this song sounded like nothing else at the time.

Do Me Baby closing side 1, was another epic and hot ballad, with a naughty Prince moaning "I'm so cold".

I love this fine album, it's a classic. Side 2 is maybe not as strong, but it still is very funky.

Private Joy, Annie Christian and Jack U Off.... and Let's Work. I truely love the raw funk sound on these tracks.

Only minus to Controversy is that Ronnie song, I guess most of us can agree this song is a weak track, imagine Extralovable instead of Ronnie, then this album would have been perfect..

9.5/ 10 imo.

YES! Classic indeed! I love it, and I have heard quite a few people make mention how when it was first released it sounded like nothing released at the time. That must have been amazing hearing ti for the first time. Yeah...the moaning at the end was just a lot to grasp..Prince wanted to drop some panties with that obviously!!

The raw funk is everywhere outside of Do Me Baby..Even in Annie Christian, the guitar is just on point!

The Ronnie Talk To Russia, fits only for the 'controversy'; other than that..YES! Extraloveable would have been rocking. He name checks his band all in the song though? Maybe that's why he didn't do it..

But 'I'm on the verge of rape' WOULD have definitely been the highlight of the controversy!!! LOL

That is still controversial when you say it in this day and age, even though I get his meaning of it...Haha

Thanks for responding!

not one of my favorit prince albums. i like it, but i hardly ever feel the need to listen to it.

and whenever i do dust it off, it's mainly due to "annie christian".

perhaps i've heard the other tracks too often by now, that might be it. but i never felt as

much love for this album as i did for "dirty mind" or "1999".

it just sits there and has a few cool songs on it and nothing totally horrible (even "ronnie"

is quite fun and has some great guitar). as an album, i guess, i just like it least of all his

80s output since it feels more like a collection of songs than an album, to me anyway.

^ Agreed. I don't go back to it as much as Dirty Mind which I think is an absolute classic. mainly because I think Controversy isn't as consistent - or such an easy listen as it's quite fiery and political...

Anyway...Jester you're welcome! I see from your Fbook, we share the same birthday...May 20th...although think we're different years....I'm from the same year as Controversy!!

[Edited 10/10/12 15:37pm]

Its a "MasterPiece" its also the first time Prince started using the Linn drum machine on "Private Joy" & it was released in the height of my obsession & the first time I saw Prince live on The Controversy tour.It changed my life 4ever....



LittleBear said:

Looking sharp, Jesse! I love this album. I could listen to the first four songs on loop and never tire of them. There's something kind of campy in Prince's punk attitude. His vocal delivery in for example Sexuality (the 3 minus 3 part then when he says "absolutely nothing") and in Private Joy (the "Joy! Joy! Joy!" starting around 2:30 followed by a ridiculous scream) OMG, he has me cracking up! This album is just so fun, brash, and gritty. And to end it all with Jack U Off? The "That's right!" around 2:25...buahaha... Thanks for the video!

Thanks my friend! I appreciate it! I like you simply can't get enough of the attitude on this album! Just very in your face and Prince is delivering the whole time! I love it..ALL of how you described it is how I would put into words as well! No problem! Thanks for watching and for expecting whatever I have next! It means a lot to me!

OldFriends4Sale said:

loving your threads EyeJester, love controversy, definately an album that stands on its own but explores Dirty Minds ideals and prepares us for 1999

Before I heard the album, a radio station would play a mix of snippets of Prince's music and I always came away with a feeling of danger lurking, the music always felt lascivious

the chanting of the Lord prayer, the wicked guitar from Private Joy in2 Ronnie Talk 2 Russia

its the opening bass of Let's Work that lascivious comes 2 mind, Annie Christian was creepy in a good way like there was some real story of some underground criminal activity

Jack U Off rocks, I turn that one up and understand why recording with a band makes sense

the New Wave wildness of Sexuality & Ronnie Talk 2 Russie, I love every live version of this one, Do Me Baby always felt like being a voyeur into someones bedroom

Tick Tick Band should have been a Bside

http://en.wikipedia.org/w...nce_album) says that BrownMark played bass on Let's Work and Dez played guitar on the album

Prince did indicate in 1990 that alot of those albums weren't always credited with the people who performed on them so...

Thank you for your input OldFriends4Sale!

As always, I appreciate everything you do! If you don't mind; feel free to add pictures and information about this era as you do so well! I love how you brought some understanding into this! It does feel like some Underground criminal activity! It's all just great!

The original Tick Tick Bang, would have been PERFECT On controversy now that you mention it! It sounds like it would be perfect!

Well....It is possible Dez did play some guitar on the album, who knows..We do know that some people are missing credit!! It is possible!

This was just an amazing concept and time!

KCOOLMUZIQ said:

Its a "MasterPiece" its also the first time Prince started using the Linn drum machine on "Private Joy" & it was released in the height of my obsession & the first time I saw Prince live on The Controversy tour.It changed my life 4ever....



ok umm if u can still remember u have 2 give some kind of retell rendition of the songs live

I was just awestruck when he started playing those songs live on stage. It was unbelievable to me 2 c someone so young & gifted at the time.They sounded better live with a rock edge to them.I was just surprised to here him sing in a low tenor voice on some songs. Because it was always falsetto on record.. He look so young to me like he was still in high school. So I completely identified with him..To see someone play each instrument so naturally the music was just pouring out of him like it was a part of his being..I never seen a black dude play a lead guitar like that. It was like it was apart of his body. Especially on 'head". My mouth dropped at the masturbation segment of that song. He treated his guitar like he was actually going through an orgasm & the audience was in absolute shock, but amazed at the same time. I was just basically a baby myself. His raw sexually charged show was eye opening & changed me 4ever.

I would have to say "Annie Christian"(His live guitar soloing on this blew the roof off the place), "Head". "Do me baby", I Wanna be ur Lover" & When U were Mine, & Dirty Mind & 'Sexuality" was my favorites he did live.He just took them songs to a whole other level..He was mesmerizing & no one took their eyes off him the whole time.Even the men who he flirted with also..

His band was a multi racial fire. They we're on point & took each cue amazingly. Dez was a rock god he was so bad ass.Him & Prince's chemistry together was electrifying. Lisa was so sexy & remains my favorite keyboard player & background vocalist of his.Finks solos was very visual U can almost see the notes floating off his synthesizer.

[Edited 10/10/12 18:39pm]

The only album that counts actually.

This is where he learned to 'freak' the slow jam (Do Me Baby)

Created his calling card song that epitomizes what he is about (Controversy title track)..his Purple Manifesto that's a throbbing mass of awesome chicken scratch, synth wabs that are THICK and funky (the funkiest thing he has done outside of The Time debut?) and adds the blasphemous gall to incite the lords prayer into it. And folks got mad at the TRC doctrine? lmao

Sexuality--punky new wave that again stamps his doctrine mantra statements for all to hear (later to be dumbed down for the masses via Purple rain, a more commercial "follow me, I'm your leader" song)

Private Joy..the best pop confection he's done. F a Raspberry Beret or Take Me With..(wait a minute TMWU is the cut). Orgasmatron..shit just the way he sings in a lower register was cool. Not a hint of the last decades whine but almost a precurser to the Delirious Elvis Presley impersonation he would do later. And those drums! The linn! God this is like cream.

Lets Work? Forgetabbouddit. That bass pop lockin...the long version where he would make a released song a new one and take it higher...using the studio member chant/yells that would become a trademark of The Time. Lets Work not only funks a bit but it "swings" if that makes any sense (hi Supernova, I miss you).

Then the most underrated piece of his catalogue..Annie Christian...its almost anti-music..nobody seems to give A damn about the underlying guitar solo-ing thats embedded deep in the mix. Most guitarists would put that up as a whole song or an interlude..Prince was burying these solo's as an off kilter to the main melody..oh for that solo to be seperated and put out alone would be heaven. And seeing this song played live in that 81 concert thats going around looks like being in the pit of hell with the presenation and light show. Somehow he seemed...dangerous..the song and performance. I know the sistas were confused as funk...hell putting this on wax and the lords prayer and such, its no wonder folks in middle America etc and christian families were 'this guy..smh" lol. Seriously...blast this shit at night , lights down low or even off..its almost akin to a musical Bloody Mary Bloody Mary or Candyman, Candyman vibe. This song seperated Prince from the rest of the rnb funky bunch. No wonder he has went whole hog for jesus..I would too after half the shit he did on this album. Talk about a dirty mind lol.

And to cap it off, Jack U Off, a rockabilly showcase to show that he can do it all..a rock rave up in tribute to Lil Richard, shut up!

It had it all..funk, rock, pop, new wave, soul, and maybe even gospel.

Yall betta recognize Controversy..you bandwagon-ers, late to the show-ers, W&L flower picking day dreamers, Lovesexy salvationers, Gold experience era reminiscers....Controversy is greater than your mom.

rdhull said:

The only album that counts actually.

This is where he learned to 'freak' the slow jam (Do Me Baby)

Created his calling card song that epitomizes what he is about (Controversy title track)..his Purple Manifesto that's a throbbing mass of awesome chicken scratch, synth wabs that are THICK and funky (the funkiest thing he has done outside of The Time debut?) and adds the blasphemous gall to incite the lords prayer into it. And folks got mad at the TRC doctrine? lmao

Sexuality--punky new wave that again stamps his doctrine mantra statements for all to hear (later to be dumbed down for the masses via Purple rain, a more commercial "follow me, I'm your leader" song)

Private Joy..the best pop confection he's done. F a Raspberry Beret or Take Me With..(wait a minute TMWU is the cut). Orgasmatron..shit just the way he sings in a lower register was cool. Not a hint of the last decades whine but almost a precurser to the Delirious Elvis Presley impersonation he would do later. And those drums! The linn! God this is like cream.

Lets Work? Forgetabbouddit. That bass pop lockin...the long version where he would make a released song a new one and take it higher...using the studio member chant/yells that would become a trademark of The Time. Lets Work not only funks a bit but it "swings" if that makes any sense (hi Supernova, I miss you).

Then the most underrated piece of his catalogue..Annie Christian...its almost anti-music..nobody seems to give A damn about the underlying guitar solo-ing thats embedded deep in the mix. Most guitarists would put that up as a whole song or an interlude..Prince was burying these solo's as an off kilter to the main melody..oh for that solo to be seperated and put out alone would be heaven. And seeing this song played live in that 81 concert thats going around looks like being in the pit of hell with the presenation and light show. Somehow he seemed...dangerous..the song and performance. I know the sistas were confused as funk...hell putting this on wax and the lords prayer and such, its no wonder folks in middle America etc and christian families were 'this guy..smh" lol. Seriously...blast this shit at night , lights down low or even off..its almost akin to a musical Bloody Mary Bloody Mary or Candyman, Candyman vibe. This song seperated Prince from the rest of the rnb funky bunch. No wonder he has went whole hog for jesus..I would too after half the shit he did on this album. Talk about a dirty mind lol.

And to cap it off, Jack U Off, a rockabilly showcase to show that he can do it all..a rock rave up in tribute to Lil Richard, shut up!

It had it all..funk, rock, pop, new wave, soul, and maybe even gospel.

Yall betta recognize Controversy..you bandwagon-ers, late to the show-ers, W&L flower picking day dreamers, Lovesexy salvationers, Gold experience era reminiscers....Controversy is greater than your mom.

On point with this!! RDull

I got into Prince late in the game; missed the 1^st three albums before I came across Prince or Controversy. My husband introduced me to Prince. As a six-month separation gift (the day we divorced he gave me Emphraim Lewis’s Skin), he sent me Controversy. Both artists I love and unfortunately Ephraim’s career was cut way too short - but CONTROVERSY was responsible for resetting my clock. I was in the industry and I wasn’t getting anything out of the 80’s; 80’s music was boring the sheit outta me. I’d done the 60’s be-bop, rock and Motown, I’d done the 70’s Funk, Punk, Rockabilly and Disco - and what a party all of it was; I had a blast thru all those genres and years. But when the 80’s came, it didn’t seem to be about the music anymore – the suits had entered and manufactured music and bands began. BUT I remember that afternoon so clearly. The brown papered square that fell toward me as I opened my front door. I immediately unwrapped it and was struck by this little man’s beauty. I wondered what messages my husband was sending me now. Anxiously I slit the shrinkwrap, slid the black disc out onto the platter and dropped the needle. It was so fresh, so funky. I was smitten. No I was in Love. No I was obsessed. I think I cracked a bottle of wine and played most of that album at least 3X’s. I immediately hit the stores and bought everything pre Controversy. There wasn’t another act that hit my turntable as often as Prince did back then and I took every opportunity to turn as many as I could on to Prince. I crashed DJ booths during my club days and snuck him on to the dance floor. I carried him to parties and bumped him onto their players. And always someone would ask “who was that”. Nobody seemed to know anything other than When Doves Cry and Purple Rain (still don’t). Hell, I turned Prince on to so many people – he should be paying ME. Definitely a classic album – not his best but his music and that 'attitude' obviously resonated with me big time, leading me down a funky funky path for years. Ahhhh and those were the days when each P album seemed to get better and better. Now I just feel that he’s run out of juice…but... he's left me with more than enough to keep me happy and there hasn’t really been another artist that has impressed me in the way that he did.

Actually, I haven’t played Controversy for a couple years – I think that’s exactly what I will add to my playlist this weekend.

Good reel Jesse – you’re a natural VJ.

[Edited 10/10/12 19:51pm]

Red said:

I got into Prince late in the game; missed the 1^st three albums before I came across Prince or Controversy. My husband introduced me to Prince. As a six-month separation gift (the day we divorced he gave me Emphraim Lewis’s Skin), he sent me Controversy. Both artists I love and unfortunately Ephraim’s career was cut way too short - but CONTROVERSY was responsible for resetting my clock. I was in the industry and I wasn’t getting anything out of the 80’s; 80’s music was boring the sheit outta me. I’d done the 60’s be-bop, rock and Motown, I’d done the 70’s Funk, Punk, Rockabilly and Disco - and what a party all of it was; I had a blast thru all those genres and years. But when the 80’s came, it didn’t seem to be about the music anymore – the suits had entered and manufactured music and bands began. BUT I remember that afternoon so clearly. The brown papered square that fell toward me as I opened my front door. I immediately unwrapped it and was struck by this little man’s beauty. I wondered what messages my husband was sending me now. Anxiously I slit the shrinkwrap, slid the black disc out onto the platter and dropped the needle. It was so fresh, so funky. I was smitten. No I was in Love. No I was obsessed. I think I cracked a bottle of wine and played most of that album at least 3X’s. I immediately hit the stores and bought everything pre Controversy. There wasn’t another act that hit my turntable as often as Prince did back then and I took every opportunity to turn as many as I could on to Prince. I crashed DJ booths during my club days and snuck him on to the dance floor. I carried him to parties and bumped him onto their players. And always someone would ask “who was that”. Nobody seemed to know anything other than When Doves Cry and Purple Rain (still don’t). Hell, I turned Prince on to so many people – he should be paying ME. Definitely a classic album – not his best but his music and that 'attitude' obviously resonated with me big time, leading me down a funky funky path for years. Ahhhh and those were the days when each P album seemed to get better and better. Now I just feel that he’s run out of juice…but... he's left me with more than enough to keep me happy and there hasn’t really been another artist that has impressed me in the way that he did.

Actually, I haven’t played Controversy for a couple years – I think that’s exactly what I will add to my playlist this weekend.

Good reel Jesse – you’re a natural VJ.

[Edited 10/10/12 19:51pm]

Hahahahaha! GOSH! This post is just simply amazing! I can make videos all day to get a response as warming as yours! I REALLY enjoyed this story! You gave me a lot laughs! "He should be paying ME" LOL...He really should. It sounds as if you brought attention to all of those ears who simply ignored how funky and creative the guy is! You are a wonderful storyteller! I just imagined the whole scenario of how you cam across this album! His attitude is what comes across so strong! I appreciate the compliment and the message you delivered! Thank you so very much! This post really brought a lot of perspective and timing! Your husband gave you a great gift that's for sure!

so weTheFreakerFantastic said:

^ Agreed. I don't go back to it as much as Dirty Mind which I think is an absolute classic. mainly because I think Controversy isn't as consistent - or such an easy listen as it's quite fiery and political...

Anyway...Jester you're welcome! I see from your Fbook, we share the same birthday...May 20th...although think we're different years....I'm from the same year as Controversy!!

[Edited 10/10/12 15:37pm]

No way! SO we celebrate the same Birthday? That's pretty LEGIT! LOL

I am kind of like Prince..TIME IS A TRICK!

It don't matter to me!

rdhull said:

The only album that counts actually.

This is where he learned to 'freak' the slow jam (Do Me Baby)

Created his calling card song that epitomizes what he is about (Controversy title track)..his Purple Manifesto that's a throbbing mass of awesome chicken scratch, synth wabs that are THICK and funky (the funkiest thing he has done outside of The Time debut?) and adds the blasphemous gall to incite the lords prayer into it. And folks got mad at the TRC doctrine? lmao

Sexuality--punky new wave that again stamps his doctrine mantra statements for all to hear (later to be dumbed down for the masses via Purple rain, a more commercial "follow me, I'm your leader" song)

Private Joy..the best pop confection he's done. F a Raspberry Beret or Take Me With..(wait a minute TMWU is the cut). Orgasmatron..shit just the way he sings in a lower register was cool. Not a hint of the last decades whine but almost a precurser to the Delirious Elvis Presley impersonation he would do later. And those drums! The linn! God this is like cream.

Lets Work? Forgetabbouddit. That bass pop lockin...the long version where he would make a released song a new one and take it higher...using the studio member chant/yells that would become a trademark of The Time. Lets Work not only funks a bit but it "swings" if that makes any sense (hi Supernova, I miss you).

Then the most underrated piece of his catalogue..Annie Christian...its almost anti-music..nobody seems to give A damn about the underlying guitar solo-ing thats embedded deep in the mix. Most guitarists would put that up as a whole song or an interlude..Prince was burying these solo's as an off kilter to the main melody..oh for that solo to be seperated and put out alone would be heaven. And seeing this song played live in that 81 concert thats going around looks like being in the pit of hell with the presenation and light show. Somehow he seemed...dangerous..the song and performance. I know the sistas were confused as funk...hell putting this on wax and the lords prayer and such, its no wonder folks in middle America etc and christian families were 'this guy..smh" lol. Seriously...blast this shit at night , lights down low or even off..its almost akin to a musical Bloody Mary Bloody Mary or Candyman, Candyman vibe. This song seperated Prince from the rest of the rnb funky bunch. No wonder he has went whole hog for jesus..I would too after half the shit he did on this album. Talk about a dirty mind lol.

And to cap it off, Jack U Off, a rockabilly showcase to show that he can do it all..a rock rave up in tribute to Lil Richard, shut up!

It had it all..funk, rock, pop, new wave, soul, and maybe even gospel.

Yall betta recognize Controversy..you bandwagon-ers, late to the show-ers, W&L flower picking day dreamers, Lovesexy salvationers, Gold experience era reminiscers....Controversy is greater than your mom.

Awesome POST!!! I LOVE IT!

If you don't mind, I would love to quote your description on 'Annie Christian' on my Tumblr! You summarized it so well!

I'll give credit to 'Rdhull'

This whole post is LEGIT! lol

Great idea for a post, we all spend so much time discussing Dirty Mind and 1999 on this org, but Controversy is pretty much overlooked as its a transistion between the two records.

I love this album and I think it is one of the most important in his musical evolution. Its actually its slight imperfections that let it shine. He's halfway from the raw garage demo feel of DM and approaching the polish electronica of 1999. The first three songs stand above the rest.

Controversy is a very funky song, with catchy lyrics and great sequencing, the chanting and even the lords prayer, he's playing the fully fledged Minneapolis sound and the song would go on to be a live opening favourite until the present. Controversy as a song is great as its a signature song of Prince's, never mind it was not a blockbuster hit like WDC, Kiss or 1999, but to most fans its recognisable and easily of of his best openers ever. 10/10

Sexuality is also great and has the cool lyrics about 89 Flowers on their back, and some of his most thought provoking and bizarre lyrics ever. 10/10

Do Me Baby is better still, the best song on the album, a slow burning storm of passion with Prince as the crazed lover man dying to bring out whats been in him 4 far 2 long. About halfway in she does it to him and he is so satisfied, but he's cold, so someone needs to hold him. It also set loose a sea of over hyper sexual steamy ballads that Prince would become famous for. Songs like Scandalous, Insatiable, Temptation, It, and even Adore. The Prince sex ballad was born here. 10/10

Private Joy is less good, its an okay song but pales next to the first three tracks, particularly Do Me Baby. Again the lyrics suggest possession this time possibly about Susan Moonsie his girlfriend at the time (Before Vanity and Jill Jones came along). 7/10

Ronnie Talk 2 Russia is a weird song, stop start organs and crazed vocals, an amusing but very dated novelty, jams like this do weigh the album down and sound ridiculous next to the wall to wall sex. 5/10

Lets Work is much better funky to death and more libido than you shake a stick out, he's gonna make you climb the walls here. The 12 inch mix on Ultimate is even better. 8/10

Annie Christian again is a strange and lesser song, its not filler, but its not great either, almost certainly about the rash of murders in the 1980/81 period, Annie Christian is the antichrist and the lyrics about taxicabs are slang for a womans you know what. 6/10

Finally theres Jack U off a strange little song about a quickie, it lacks the passion and pure pastiche of do me baby and lets work, and the lyrics about Jacking off seem bizarre on a girl, it was a song that made you wonder. 6/10

Overall its a great album and came at a time of great change, he was managing the time along with his group and the album did much better than DM but he still got booed off the stage at the Rolling Stone gig. I gave it a solid A-/B+ But the next album would see a fuller vision develop.

The tour concerts are great and having at least one bootleg of them is always good.

I think any fan of this period, should try and get this or at least listen to it.

[img:$uid]http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j352/Princette76/UptownLive_Coverspread.jpg[/img:$uid]

Its the March 7 1982 concert at Minneapolis (The poorly attended home coming show where only 5,500 came out of 13,000 seats). The jamming is excellent he funks out most of the Controversy tracks and even plays a few off Dirty Mind and Prince. You can also hear the second coming, which is a gospel like chant, anyway the majesty of the preiod is there.

for me the great thing is the instruments - the keyboards are thick and heavy and full of groove, the bass is high in the mix and funky, likewise the drums / drum machine driving the music and the guitar is just crazy.

In a word though the thing i love most is the 'energy'.

I love "Annie Christian" . Such an underrated song to me. I love the guitar solo.