I have had ONA for a few days now and have been apprehensive as to when I listen to it. It is important to me to be open when I take things in for the first time.

It seems to me that so many of us are always saying how much we like songs like Sometimes it Snows in April and his piano ballads. I think he is listening to us. I genuinely think he is letting us in. Something many have claimed to want. This cd seems personal to me. And I think on that basis alone, it is not getting near enough recognition.

When I listen to ONA, I feel like he is right here, as he would at home... comfortable and going through his artistic process. I think this is one of his most important pieces of work based on his ability to now let us all in without perfectionism getting in his way. On that note, it makes it that much more perfect in my eyes.
This is obviously a personal, deeply personal piece. It is beautiful to listen to and I love it.

The man and his piano...

That's exactly how I felt! This album seems extremely personal. The lyrics alone for "Here on Earth" blew me away with their vunerablity. I mean, those subtle "hmphs" (sp?) after "This young woman...your wife" and "She turns and curses the day she met you..." speak volumes on his emotions. It's heartrenching for me to hear this. Plus the fact that he dedicates "A Case of U" to his father is another example of his openness.

Right on berry glad your feeling it.My first listen was a casual one then I got into it with lyrics in hand and it touched me!

Cecy said:

oh yeah! "here on earth" has a very spooky and sad sound to it. the lyrics are very interesting.

i like the music on the whole cd...it's different & i always love it when prince sits and plays the piano! now i'm still hoping for the day when he will do a piano album without any lyrics or singing. that will be awesome!

peace

Ditto to what Berry said.

Ditto again Berry. You're so right.

This was a very moving CD for me as well. It's like he's stripped down all barriers and lettin us in his studio to watch him work. Anyone who was expecting the next Sign O' The Times or Purple Rain isn't going to appreciate it. ONA is definitely my new going to work in the morning CD.

True, Berry ... its a great and moving album.

I looove the ONA CD! I can't believe that some other org members are dogging it and saying that they don't like it! WTF?!!

I listen to it daily... on random... shuffle... repeat. They are all worth my divine attention. I too feel it is quite personal and more direct than anything he has so graciously released.

It is growing on me more and more... oh god it's just georgeous

It is great! I cant get enough of it. A Case of U is truly wonderful.
Peace and Love!