I only recently got into the whole MP3 thing on Audiogalaxy before it went tits up and I downloaded "How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore?" I understand this track was first available as the B-side to "1999", right? I'd like to know something. Is the version I have, a solo piano track that is slightly demo-ish in quality, the same version as the B-side to "1999". I never had the single but I know I was aware of the track "How Come..." a long time ago. Has he performed it often in concert?

I like the version I have but it doesn't really sound like a polished recording. Any info about this would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers.

Well the original song I wouldn't really call 'polished' in the way that TRC is 'polished', but I wouldn't say it sounds demo quality. You may just have a demo version of the song. Check out your local record store and pick up Warners rerelease of the 1999 single. It's been out a few years so you should be able to find it cheap.

From the liner notes of "The Hits/the 'B' Sides"

By Alan Leeds

"How Come U Don't Call Me Anymore"

Prince's own daring vocals, his treacherously percussive piano and a stomping heartbeat for drums equals one of the most popular of his "killer B's" ~ one that frequently brought down the house on several tours."

This is the same haunting tune I heard back in the day. U got the real deal.

MattHudson said:

Cheers Matt. I'll have a look for it. But is there any way u could describe it so that I might know if it's the same? The one I have is just piano and has a little delay on the vocals towards the end. Does that sound like the one?

The song has a natural demo like feel to it. It sounds unfinished, but it helps the song sound beautiful. I almost think he did that on purpose.

It may be the same version.It can also be
found on The Hits/B-Sides.I believe it is
also on the Girl 6 soundtrack since
it was featured in the movie.There's a whole
scene devoted to that song,and I consider
it to be the video for that song
since Prince never made one 4 it.

I've heard that he does play this song in concert
and has been for awhile.

Speaking of Girl 6,I recommend any Prince fan 2 watch
this film because all the songs in it are 4rm Prince.For
those who have not seen it or haven't heard about it,please
check it out.You may not like the movie itself, but I think
you'll enjoy how Spike Lee incorporated Prince's songs to
some of the scenes to make the movie flow good.Even Prince
praises it.