Genesia said:

Y'know...I honestly don't care about the whole backstory - and I've been looking forward to the album. But this edition of The Family Feud is really starting to turn me off - to the point where I may not even buy the album.

[Edited 5/21/11 13:33pm]

The funny part is that it's not the BAND who is calling Prince out - it is the fans.

So... way to punish the fans and not support a potentially great record (from what I've heard so far) .

Just curious - Has any of Prince's antics or his fans stopped you from buying HIS records?

Genesia said:

Y'know...I honestly don't care about the whole backstory - and I've been looking forward to the album. But this edition of The Family Feud is really starting to turn me off - to the point where I may not even buy the album.

[Edited 5/21/11 13:33pm]

Don't be upset with the guys - they haven't ben harping on about it at all. They have literally mebntioned it a couple of times last week. They seem to be frustrated that's all but their most recent posts seems to indicate they are over it too and just want to talk about the new album out in September!

Zannaloaf said:

Genesia said:

Y'know...I honestly don't care about the whole backstory - and I've been looking forward to the album. But this edition of The Family Feud is really starting to turn me off - to the point where I may not even buy the album.

[Edited 5/21/11 13:33pm]

The funny part is that it's not the BAND who is calling Prince out - it is the fans.

So... way to punish the fans and not support a potentially great record (from what I've heard so far) .

Just curious - Has any of Prince's antics or his fans stopped you from buying HIS records?

What "antics," exactly? As far as I know, Prince isn't out there badmouthing former associates. Prince doesn't allude to people having done him wrong - without coming out and saying exactly what his beef is. Unlike other people.

Why would they even mention that a letter was written - except to trade on Prince's name? None of us know what the letter said. None of us will ever know what the letter said. And Prince will certainly never talk about it. So even mentioning it is chickenshit.

As far as I'm concerned, trying to call the album "The Family," when they'd already been told they couldn't call their group The Family was simply an attempt to poke Prince in the eye. If they really have moved on, and their only aim is to make music, then why not do their own thing - all the way? The idea that calling the group or the album The Family is essential to their success is moronic. Nobody knows who they are, anyway - outside of their Prince-related fanbase. And all of us know by now that a new album's coming and would have sought it out under name they chose. They ought to sink or swim on their own merits.

this is really getting boring i have never heard prince bad mouth none of his past workers in a innerview or nothing yet they will take shots at him if its all about the music make it whats in a name they say?? make up a new name do it on there own they only had one cd its not like they have years and years of history like the time they were brought 2gether by prince after the time broke up so get over it

So all these former proteges are like victims in an abusive relationship.

None of them have the balls to actually stand up to their alleged 'abuser.'

They just tiptoe around him, trying to appease him and then whine about it in a passive agressive manner.

It is getting tiresome.

We all know Prince is an asshole, but at a certain point people have got to stop blaming him for whatever they aren't doing.

Just fucking do it or don't.

No need to keep discussing it, and certainly no need to 'sacrifice' your artistic vision out of 'respect' for your former employer.

If they really respected him, they wouldn't keep this discussion alive, they'd just agree to whatever he wanted.

He obviously doesn't respect them, or care about their feelings, so they don't really owe him any of that. They just need to finally stand up, or shut up.

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

QuasarOfRock said:

So all these former proteges are like victims in an abusive relationship.

None of them have the balls to actually stand up to their alleged 'abuser.'

They just tiptoe around him, trying to appease him and then whine about it in a passive agressive manner.

It is getting tiresome.

We all know Prince is an asshole, but at a certain point people have got to stop blaming him for whatever they aren't doing.

Just fucking do it or don't.

No need to keep discussing it, and certainly no need to 'sacrifice' your artistic vision out of 'respect' for your former employer.

If they really respected him, they wouldn't keep this discussion alive, they'd just agree to whatever he wanted.

He obviously doesn't respect them, or care about their feelings, so they don't really owe him any of that. They just need to finally stand up, or shut up.

We don't know if they respect him either or care about his feelings. We don't if arguments took place, hurtful words were exchanged between parties. We just don't know. But I do agree with you, they need to deal with it directly with him, as group, coming together, or through an attorney because this decades long we're victims tirade has gone on long enough. I do wish them the best. All the musicians I've come to learn about, hear them play and enjoy their talents have made the whole Prince experience very special and I think its sad that they can't resolve this, whoever is at fault.

[Edited 5/21/11 14:24pm]

wonder505 said:

QuasarOfRock said:

So all these former proteges are like victims in an abusive relationship.

None of them have the balls to actually stand up to their alleged 'abuser.'

They just tiptoe around him, trying to appease him and then whine about it in a passive agressive manner.

It is getting tiresome.

We all know Prince is an asshole, but at a certain point people have got to stop blaming him for whatever they aren't doing.

Just fucking do it or don't.

No need to keep discussing it, and certainly no need to 'sacrifice' your artistic vision out of 'respect' for your former employer.

If they really respected him, they wouldn't keep this discussion alive, they'd just agree to whatever he wanted.

He obviously doesn't respect them, or care about their feelings, so they don't really owe him any of that. They just need to finally stand up, or shut up.

We don't know if they respect him either or care about his feelings. We don't if arguments took place, hurtful words were exchanged between parties. We just don't know. But I do agree with you, they need to deal with it directly with him, as group, coming together, or through an attorney because this decades long we're victims tirade has gone on long enough. I do wish them the best. All the musicians I've come to learn about, hear them play and enjoy their talents have made the whole Prince experience very special and I think its sad that they can't resolve this, whoever is at fault.

[Edited 5/21/11 14:24pm]

Amen.

ALANL said:

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

ALANL said:

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

Thank U Very Much Alan ..........People with common sense understand exactly what you're saying !

ALANL said:

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

Wow, Alan thanks for coming on this forum to present your view. I'm still confused, if Prince has no claim then what is there bully the group about. Has anyone tried to reach out to him directly? What is stopping the group from fighting to protect their rights legal through an attorney? That is what I don't understand. Perhaps as an outsider looking in this continues to go on because he has never been challenged or anyone chooses to deal with it directly.

Either way, I wish the band the best and after all of this, the music will shine through.

[Edited 5/21/11 14:34pm]

alexnvrmnd777 said:

jamistar said:

this speaks for itself really.

Alan Leeds

No hatin' here...just pity. How sad that someone with 21 shows that he can't sell out (guess Cali ain't New York!)....has nothing more important to do than obstruct a bunch of grateful proteges from trading on a history that they deservedly share. It's not cool to judge one's motives, so I'll leave that to him and the Almighty he so avidly claims to let guide him. I didn't know Jehovah was a King. Guess dude needed to choose a Chosen after all. Go figure. Sarcasm aside, he oughta learn to be proud of those who passed thru his camp and learned from him instead of obsess. It's soooo pathetic and beneath his stature.

Yes, yes, YES!!!!!! Get 'em, Alan!! Prince claims to be so cool and "chill" and a hater of being tied down by the master contractor, and he's doing the EXACT same thing to anyone he feels is under his thumb.

I wish more would have the balls to call him out like this, because when you're wrong, you're wrong! Just what is he "protecting" all of the names and whatnot for anyway? He's not using it for anything, and it's not like he's planning on releasing old stuff to reintroduce the brand to the marketplace. Hell, he can't even release an album in the States that was released in the UK, so I KNOW he's just sitting on all of The Family's music and videos, as well as all of his other proteges and Princely vault items that never saw the light of day.

And to Prince, if these guys are actually going to do something with the name and its legacy, let 'em cuz you ain't gonna do SHIT with it! Oh, and just as Alan mentioned, your little 21-night stand in LA ain't quite what you thought it'd be, is it? Even with tickets at $25. Go somewhere and sit your little played out, paranoid ass down somewhere!

Venting done.....

I agree! I don't understand why Prince cares about anything Family-related.Unless he's planning to do something with that name,that project,or their legacy,then why not just allow them to do their thing? He's making lots of money on tour.Why does he even care about what his old proteges are doing? It doesn't affect him or his bank account in any way.Would it really kill him to let them use the name?! Sheesh!

SoulAlive said:

alexnvrmnd777 said:

Yes, yes, YES!!!!!! Get 'em, Alan!! Prince claims to be so cool and "chill" and a hater of being tied down by the master contractor, and he's doing the EXACT same thing to anyone he feels is under his thumb.

I wish more would have the balls to call him out like this, because when you're wrong, you're wrong! Just what is he "protecting" all of the names and whatnot for anyway? He's not using it for anything, and it's not like he's planning on releasing old stuff to reintroduce the brand to the marketplace. Hell, he can't even release an album in the States that was released in the UK, so I KNOW he's just sitting on all of The Family's music and videos, as well as all of his other proteges and Princely vault items that never saw the light of day.

And to Prince, if these guys are actually going to do something with the name and its legacy, let 'em cuz you ain't gonna do SHIT with it! Oh, and just as Alan mentioned, your little 21-night stand in LA ain't quite what you thought it'd be, is it? Even with tickets at $25. Go somewhere and sit your little played out, paranoid ass down somewhere!

Venting done.....

I agree! I don't understand why Prince cares about anything Family-related.Unless he's planning to do something with that name,that project,or their legacy,then why not just allow them to do their thing? He's making lots of money on tour.Why does he even care about what his old proteges are doing? It doesn't affect him or his bank account in any way.Would it really kill him to let them use the name?! Sheesh!

Well, Alan Leeds just said that 'Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry.' So technically Prince isn't 'stopping' them.

There is absolutely nothing to prevent fDeluxe from replying via the legal system except horrific cost! Not everyone has the resources to work the legal system over what is basically a folly.

The band long ago made the decision not to fight and chose a new name.

So that's no longer the issue.

The issue is that Prince-hired attorneys continue to send threatening documents to the band and their manager. They know it takes time and, more importantly, deep pockets to fight through the legal system. Intimidation has always been a rich best legal strategy.

Theoretically, the day could come where these kinds of threatening documents could discourage record companies, distributors, retailers, booking agents, promoters and venue operators from wanting to do business with the band due to the potential legal hassles. THAT's the issue.

ALANL said:

There is absolutely nothing to prevent fDeluxe from replying via the legal system except horrific cost! Not everyone has the resources to work the legal system over what is basically a folly.

The band long ago made the decision not to fight and chose a new name.

So that's no longer the issue.

The issue is that Prince-hired attorneys continue to send threatening documents to the band and their manager. They know it takes time and, more importantly, deep pockets to fight through the legal system. Intimidation has always been a rich best legal strategy.

Theoretically, the day could come where these kinds of threatening documents could discourage record companies, distributors, retailers, booking agents, promoters and venue operators from wanting to do business with the band due to the potential legal hassles. THAT's the issue.

I think some promoters is starting to see what kind of tactics he uses, real talk.........

[Edited 5/21/11 14:55pm]

[Edited 5/21/11 14:56pm]

[Edited 5/21/11 14:57pm]

um........WHAT TIME IS IT???????

Not only fDeluxe (The Family) but The Time (NOT Morris Day & The Time) as well. The Time is LESS of a threat if "Part-Time" is playing Casinos & Summer festivals. But w/Jam & Lewis, Jesse & Jerome? "Full-Time"? PROBLEM!!!!!

Same w/fDeluxe. People WANNA see them do it AS THE FAMILY!!!! AS THEY WERE!!! Not P. For SOME reason it's not "allowed". I'm GLAD they're not lettin' B.S. stop them from doin' their thing. Can't wait 2 cop the new project!!!!!

Next up.........MAZARATI!!!!! but they probably won't be ALLOWED 2 perform "100 MPH" because uknowho wrote it!!!!!

.....NOW WHAT TIME IS IT??????

Nwi.

[Edited 5/21/11 17:01pm]

alexnvrmnd777 said:

MissParkerr said:

I know everyone must know this but me, but who is Alan Leeds to Prince? His old manager?

Um, have you tried Googling him?

Yes I could, but since I was already here........

geesshh.........

ALANL said:

There is absolutely nothing to prevent fDeluxe from replying via the legal system except horrific cost! Not everyone has the resources to work the legal system over what is basically a folly.

The band long ago made the decision not to fight and chose a new name.

So that's no longer the issue.

The issue is that Prince-hired attorneys continue to send threatening documents to the band and their manager. They know it takes time and, more importantly, deep pockets to fight through the legal system. Intimidation has always been a rich best legal strategy.

Theoretically, the day could come where these kinds of threatening documents could discourage record companies, distributors, retailers, booking agents, promoters and venue operators from wanting to do business with the band due to the potential legal hassles. THAT's the issue.

Ahhh so this explains the whole Time holdup. Wow!!

ALANL said:

There is absolutely nothing to prevent fDeluxe from replying via the legal system except horrific cost! Not everyone has the resources to work the legal system over what is basically a folly.

The band long ago made the decision not to fight and chose a new name.

So that's no longer the issue.

The issue is that Prince-hired attorneys continue to send threatening documents to the band and their manager. They know it takes time and, more importantly, deep pockets to fight through the legal system. Intimidation has always been a rich best legal strategy.

Theoretically, the day could come where these kinds of threatening documents could discourage record companies, distributors, retailers, booking agents, promoters and venue operators from wanting to do business with the band due to the potential legal hassles. THAT's the issue.

Thanks for clarifying Alan. My favorite band, WAR is in a similar situation with Jerry Goldstein and I've been following that case for awhile, so I get it. It's a long-drawn out, tedious process but WAR aka (Lowrider band) is hanging tough and they are by no means wealthy men. Why not reach out to Harold Brown for some advice?

I have to say this. The thing is, until someone is willing to say those 4 little words to Prince, (see you in court), nothing will be achieved and facebook ain't gonna get it. At some point somebody has to decide to ignore the threats of what "might" happen and bring some closure to this issue. That is, if these folks feel it's worth fighting for. Otherwise, I don't know what more there is to be said.

Are there enough of you to start a legal defense fund? Have you at least had a consultation with a lawyer? Some attorneys will work out payment plans or charge a lesser fee just to write motions without making court appearances.

It may be best to just sever all ties to anything even remotely related to the past, I dunno.

I don't have enough knowledge of the details to take sides but I figured I'd offer a couple of suggestions rather than post a rant. Whatever those guys decide I hope they're able to take the initiative and get things sorted out...best wishes.

babynoz said:

ALANL said:

There is absolutely nothing to prevent fDeluxe from replying via the legal system except horrific cost! Not everyone has the resources to work the legal system over what is basically a folly.

The band long ago made the decision not to fight and chose a new name.

So that's no longer the issue.

The issue is that Prince-hired attorneys continue to send threatening documents to the band and their manager. They know it takes time and, more importantly, deep pockets to fight through the legal system. Intimidation has always been a rich best legal strategy.

Theoretically, the day could come where these kinds of threatening documents could discourage record companies, distributors, retailers, booking agents, promoters and venue operators from wanting to do business with the band due to the potential legal hassles. THAT's the issue.

Thanks for clarifying Alan. My favorite band, WAR is in a similar situation with Jerry Goldstein and I've been following that case for awhile, so I get it. It's a long-drawn out, tedious process but WAR aka (Lowrider band) is hanging tough and they are by no means wealthy men. Why not reach out to Harold Brown for some advice?

I have to say this. The thing is, until someone is willing to say those 4 little words to Prince, (see you in court), nothing will be achieved and facebook ain't gonna get it. At some point somebody has to decide to ignore the threats of what "might" happen and bring some closure to this issue. That is, if these folks feel it's worth fighting for. Otherwise, I don't know what more there is to be said.

Are there enough of you to start a legal defense fund? Have you at least had a consultation with a lawyer? Some attorneys will work out payment plans or charge a lesser fee just to write motions without making court appearances.

It may be best to just sever all ties to anything even remotely related to the past, I dunno.

I don't have enough knowledge of the details to take sides but I figured I'd offer a couple of suggestions rather than post a rant. Whatever those guys decide I hope they're able to take the initiative and get things sorted out...best wishes.

ladygirl99 said:

You go Alan!

Co sign x infinity.

cbarnes3121 said:

sounds like alan hating cuz he no longer booking the rooms. prince still making millions what is alan or the ex family making now?? they all mad at prince 4 things he own??

So happiness is based on money? Is it based on fame? So why are there rich and famous people who are not happy?

Everyone who is not Prince, or rich like him or not as famous as him are not jealous of him.

ALANL said:

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

wonder505 said:

ALANL said:

A final comment on a forum of mostly childish rants, usually from those who know not what they speak of:

To any who care (and you shouldn't), Prince was my best employer ever and we parted on good terms. He is also the most gifted artist I EVER encountered. I wish him nothing but continued success and happiness. I have had an equally wonderful and lucrative life in the years since I worked for him. He owes me nothing and I have no regrets.

I do not manage fDeluxe. They have a very capable manager. I DO care about the band - Hell, my own brother is in it!

The U.S. Trademark bureau has determined that Prince nor Paisley Park own the trademark THE FAMILY for use in the music industry. Still, his bullying-attorneys claim authority over the name and Trademark. I love Prince. But I hate bullies.

fDeluxe never expressed interest in, nor solicited involvement or support from Prince. They are all eternally grateful for their experiences with Prince. But they are also extremely talented writer-artists. And Prince is just one influence and inspiration among many in their collective careers.

Their first album as THE FAMILY was obviously a Prince creation. (BTW, it was a very successful album with a huge hit single, "Screams Of Passion" - do the research). Just as obviously, it was their indivudual talents that brought that music to life. Now, lo these many years later, they have reunited to create an equally worthy album on their own and merely wish to share it with whomever is interested - Prince fan or not. I would hope they can do so without any further interference.

Facebook is a silly forum but Prince's obsession with privacy and control inhibits any other possible means for an objective dialogue. I am only running my mouth because the band won't - they just want to make music.

I simply cannot understand what motivates the interference. I'd love to know what drives someone so successful to pay the most expensive kind of music business attorneys to threaten and obstruct a group of creative people who have absolutely no issues, from making a living doing what they do.

Long live fDeluxe! Long live Prince! And hopefully never the twain shall meet!

Wow, Alan thanks for coming on this forum to present your view. I'm still confused, if Prince has no claim then what is there bully the group about. Has anyone tried to reach out to him directly? What is stopping the group from fighting to protect their rights legal through an attorney? That is what I don't understand. Perhaps as an outsider looking in this continues to go on because he has never been challenged or anyone chooses to deal with it directly.

Either way, I wish the band the best and after all of this, the music will shine through.

[Edited 5/21/11 14:34pm]

Yes, he came on and presented his views, at the same time calling some of the comments on this forum childish rants, and that may be true, but yet his FB comment fell along those same lines. It's cool that he admitted that Prince was one of his best employers and spoke of him highly as a musician, and that they parted on good terms. It's sad that some of what went on with FDeluxe regarding documents being served to them, was mentioned at all on FB, for others to read, when it was probably best kept behind the scenes, and not open for others to post elsewhere. Anyway, good luck to them with getting their album out.

[Edited 5/21/11 19:12pm]

I tend to agree that most of this drama should be kept between the parties and not thrashed about in public.

HOWEVER, when unexpected legal hurdles thrown in FDeluxe's path threaten their freedom to deliver what they have promised to fans and the industry at large, an explanation is expected and deserved. Particularly when delays or confusion are due to elements, situations - in this case attorneys - beyond the band's control.

I cannot speak for anyone but myself but my impression is that a simple explanation of what the band is forced to deal with - through no fault of their own - was the only reason to discuss this subject. Evidence simply suggests that, predictably, fans - a few of which appear to have their own agendas - took it from there.

While I'm sure the members of fDeluxe appreciate the love from those taking up their cause, I'm equally sure the band would prefer this all just went away and allowed them to spend 100% of their attention on their music.

ALANL said:

I tend to agree that most of this drama should be kept between the parties and not thrashed about in public.

HOWEVER, when unexpected legal hurdles thrown in FDeluxe's path threaten their freedom to deliver what they have promised to fans and the industry at large, an explanation is expected and deserved. Particularly when delays or confusion are due to elements, situations - in this case attorneys - beyond the band's control.

I cannot speak for anyone but myself but my impression is that a simple explanation of what the band is forced to deal with - through no fault of their own - was the only reason to discuss this subject. Evidence simply suggests that, predictably, fans - a few of which appear to have their own agendas - took it from there.

While I'm sure the members of fDeluxe appreciate the love from those taking up their cause, I'm equally sure the band would prefer this all just went away and allowed them to spend 100% of their attention on their music.

Agree that an explanation to fans was warranted. If the explanation involved the issue of the legal documents sent to the band, then maybe that part could have been left out, if that's what was included in the FB message. Just saying, that probably would have been the best thing to do, because once something is in print, that's it, it's in print for everyone to see, and then you will find yourself having to more explaining than you should.

It is unfortunate though, that those FB messages were dragged from its place of origin to other sites, from friends on FDeluxes' page and posted here, and once it's posted on another site, naturally there will be comments/responses/questions/assumptions, etc. Guess those types of things are bound to happen on social networks. Good luck with getting their album out.

[Edited 5/21/11 18:57pm]

LASTLY (I hope), yes, the tone of frustration in my original FB posting may have been a bit more provacative than necessary but I stand by everything I said. None of us are perfect beings and I don't hold Prince to higher standards than anyone else. And if he didn't preach such a transparent and hipocritical doctrine, I'd more patiently excuse his imperfections (we all have them).

As an artist he is in a class by himself. He has influenced and inspired several generations of young artists. I was taught a long time ago that a singularly awesome gift such as what Prince was bestowed with, comes with a responsibility. A responsibility to respect the gift and the art. When he needlessly takes advantage of his proteges and colleagues, it's disrespecting the music and his own legacy. It's beneath him. His gift has placed him on a pedastal, standing above almost all others in his field. He should not be taking those beneath him for granted. It's about respect. Respect for HIMSELF and HIS OWN LEGACY. The rules are not just for him! When he goes on TV and speaks out against artists covering his music and then turns around and performs a song by D-TRAIN, are we supposed to laugh or cry? Certainly not take his words seriously. Thus we don't. And that's a shame because he has a lot to say that's worth hearing.

^I don't know, is it possible you're letting your frustrations over this get to you? I think it's best all of you find some kind of way to sit down and resolve your issues with him, although that may take some time, if at all, and not let your frustrations be aired publically through social networking sites or unofficial fan sites, by trying to communicate your concerns and frustrations to him that way. Good luck with that though.

[Edited 5/21/11 19:14pm]