paulludvig said:

Prince should release a pretend “demo version” of this FD joke to suggest that all St Paul did was re-record the joke according to Prince’s guide vocals.

Hilarious.

Not sure if it's a dig at Prince or FD or just plain funny and not a dig at all. I'll go with the latter.

Square1entertainment said:

Hello Folks, just to clarify.

1. fDeluxe was not offended by Prince's email, he was staking at his territory with a musical piece of subtle sledging so we returned the favour. It's all a bit of fun. Nothing more than that.

2. The band is not doing this for the money ... Lord knows none of us could pay our mortgages if we put all our eggs into the fDeluxe basket so to speak. All of us are friends having a bit of fun playing, making and marketing music on our terms.

3. Yes, we realise the band is known mainly to devotees of Prince but we are doing all we can to expand our fanbase. That's not easy in 2012 but hey, you gotta be in it to win it.

4. Are fDeluxe supporting Prince in Oz. No. But if they ask and contracts were presented we'd be there in a heartbeat if the deal made sense, just as we would if it was any high profile act who plays in front of a large audience.

5. Are we touring more. yes. Stay tuned for more news - possibly some co-bills with some old friends, possibly some with new friends.

Always interesting to log in and read the comments whichever side of the fence they sit.

BTW, here's some press on the album:

“From the skintight beats of Gaslight’s opening track, Drummers and Healers, fDeluxe’s

supremely taut and sensual soul is not only intact, it’s rejuvenated. The former disciples of

the elfin one have returned, 25 years wiser, to make a statement — self-produced, selfreleasedand one of the most exciting records I’ve heard this year.” Paul Sexton, The

Sunday Times

“Gaslight makes one thing resoundingly clear: with Prince nowhere in sight, fDeluxe have

created a far more absorbing and multi-layered album than anything the man himself has

put his name to for at least a decade.” Echoes (UK)

“A split from their royal ruler may have caused a name change but this display of

sophisticated jazz and subtle funk shows they’re more than court rejects.”

The Daily Mirror (UK)

“A perfectly distilled dose of funk and modern soul that lights up your brain like a pinball

machine from the first beat.” Guitarist Magazine

“Gaslight is a confident, smoothly funky return that shows off the band’s impressive

musical chops” Metro (UK)

“The combination of Susannah Melvoin’s winsome vocals, Paul Peterson’s muscular bass

lines, Jellybean Johnson’s searing rock-inflected guitar and saxophonist Eric Leeds’ jazzy,

bebop-inflected riffing creates a funk and soul experience that is singular, wonderful and

sometimes transcendent.” Black Sheep Mag (UK)

“fDeluxe have produced a fine album that stylistically sits comfortably alongside the

original 1985 album and yet which is far from being a dated museum piece. The

Minneapolis funk element is still present, but there's a strong, almost palpable,

contemporary vibe, which means that 'Gaslight' isn't an empty exercise in retro nostalgia. ”

Charles Waring, SoulandJazzandfunk.com

“Gaslight"… is both a continuation of the Family and a journey in new directions. In other

words, it's got plenty of sanctified funk, dreamy pop, soulful duets and jazzy saxophone.”

Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“'Gaslight' is an exciting epic that boldly defies convention.” PennyBlackMusic

“Great album!” Peter Young, Jazz FM

“This return finds the original four piece on impressively supple, sophisticated and funk

fired form.” Uncut

“Peterson, Melvoin, saxophonist Eric Leeds and drummer Jellybean Johnson have made a

record of jazzy, funky pop, revisiting the Minneapolis sound of the '80s while also moving

forward.” AOL Spinner

“The first and hopefully not only album by the group is full of old-fashioned good-listening

funk that never sounds dated.” BN/DeStem (The Netherlands)

“Gaslight is a triumphant and welcome return for fDeluxe!” PopBlerd

“The band is fDeluxe. The album is Gaslight. They used to be The Family, who recorded

"Screams of Passion" and the original version of "Nothing Compares to You." Saw them at

Joe's Pub. St. Paul Peterson, Susannah Melvoin, Jellybean Johnson and Eric Leeds are

fDeluxe, vets of a gang of great Minneapolis bands (The Time, Madhouse) and more.

Great musicians playing funk ass music. That's a movement I support. This has not been a

paid promotional announcement.”

Nelson George, acclaimed Music and Culture Critic/Producer (Chris Rock, Show

American Gangster, VH1’s Hip Hop Honors & more)

[Edited 4/28/12 17:57pm]

I'm sorry but based purely on this comment...the question must be asked...who exactly are YOU...in relation to fDeluxe...that would merit giving this comment any sort of consideration?

thats like if prince screws up one of james browns songs "just for fun" or publicity. not cool

flyorra said:

thats like if prince screws up one of james browns songs "just for fun" or publicity. not cool

I doubt they got much publicity from it. Does anybody actually read Dr. Funkenberry besides people at the org?

HatrinaHaterwitz said:

Square1entertainment said:

Hello Folks, just to clarify.

1. fDeluxe was not offended by Prince's email, he was staking at his territory with a musical piece of subtle sledging so we returned the favour. It's all a bit of fun. Nothing more than that.

2. The band is not doing this for the money ... Lord knows none of us could pay our mortgages if we put all our eggs into the fDeluxe basket so to speak. All of us are friends having a bit of fun playing, making and marketing music on our terms.

3. Yes, we realise the band is known mainly to devotees of Prince but we are doing all we can to expand our fanbase. That's not easy in 2012 but hey, you gotta be in it to win it.

4. Are fDeluxe supporting Prince in Oz. No. But if they ask and contracts were presented we'd be there in a heartbeat if the deal made sense, just as we would if it was any high profile act who plays in front of a large audience.

5. Are we touring more. yes. Stay tuned for more news - possibly some co-bills with some old friends, possibly some with new friends.

Always interesting to log in and read the comments whichever side of the fence they sit.

BTW, here's some press on the album:

“From the skintight beats of Gaslight’s opening track, Drummers and Healers, fDeluxe’s

supremely taut and sensual soul is not only intact, it’s rejuvenated. The former disciples of

the elfin one have returned, 25 years wiser, to make a statement — self-produced, selfreleasedand one of the most exciting records I’ve heard this year.” Paul Sexton, The

Sunday Times

“Gaslight makes one thing resoundingly clear: with Prince nowhere in sight, fDeluxe have

created a far more absorbing and multi-layered album than anything the man himself has

put his name to for at least a decade.” Echoes (UK)

“A split from their royal ruler may have caused a name change but this display of

sophisticated jazz and subtle funk shows they’re more than court rejects.”

The Daily Mirror (UK)

“A perfectly distilled dose of funk and modern soul that lights up your brain like a pinball

machine from the first beat.” Guitarist Magazine

“Gaslight is a confident, smoothly funky return that shows off the band’s impressive

musical chops” Metro (UK)

“The combination of Susannah Melvoin’s winsome vocals, Paul Peterson’s muscular bass

lines, Jellybean Johnson’s searing rock-inflected guitar and saxophonist Eric Leeds’ jazzy,

bebop-inflected riffing creates a funk and soul experience that is singular, wonderful and

sometimes transcendent.” Black Sheep Mag (UK)

“fDeluxe have produced a fine album that stylistically sits comfortably alongside the

original 1985 album and yet which is far from being a dated museum piece. The

Minneapolis funk element is still present, but there's a strong, almost palpable,

contemporary vibe, which means that 'Gaslight' isn't an empty exercise in retro nostalgia. ”

Charles Waring, SoulandJazzandfunk.com

“Gaslight"… is both a continuation of the Family and a journey in new directions. In other

words, it's got plenty of sanctified funk, dreamy pop, soulful duets and jazzy saxophone.”

Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“'Gaslight' is an exciting epic that boldly defies convention.” PennyBlackMusic

“Great album!” Peter Young, Jazz FM

“This return finds the original four piece on impressively supple, sophisticated and funk

fired form.” Uncut

“Peterson, Melvoin, saxophonist Eric Leeds and drummer Jellybean Johnson have made a

record of jazzy, funky pop, revisiting the Minneapolis sound of the '80s while also moving

forward.” AOL Spinner

“The first and hopefully not only album by the group is full of old-fashioned good-listening

funk that never sounds dated.” BN/DeStem (The Netherlands)

“Gaslight is a triumphant and welcome return for fDeluxe!” PopBlerd

“The band is fDeluxe. The album is Gaslight. They used to be The Family, who recorded

"Screams of Passion" and the original version of "Nothing Compares to You." Saw them at

Joe's Pub. St. Paul Peterson, Susannah Melvoin, Jellybean Johnson and Eric Leeds are

fDeluxe, vets of a gang of great Minneapolis bands (The Time, Madhouse) and more.

Great musicians playing funk ass music. That's a movement I support. This has not been a

paid promotional announcement.”

Nelson George, acclaimed Music and Culture Critic/Producer (Chris Rock, Show

American Gangster, VH1’s Hip Hop Honors & more)

[Edited 4/28/12 17:57pm]

I'm sorry but based purely on this comment...the question must be asked...who exactly are YOU...in relation to fDeluxe...that would merit giving this comment any sort of consideration?

My guess: Eric Leeds...

funkaholic1972 said:

HatrinaHaterwitz said:

I'm sorry but based purely on this comment...the question must be asked...who exactly are YOU...in relation to fDeluxe...that would merit giving this comment any sort of consideration?

My guess: Eric Leeds...

Possibly.

But without any sort of confirmation...that's just another in the wind.

HatrinaHaterwitz said:

Square1entertainment said:

Hello Folks, just to clarify.

1. fDeluxe was not offended by Prince's email, he was staking at his territory with a musical piece of subtle sledging so we returned the favour. It's all a bit of fun. Nothing more than that.

2. The band is not doing this for the money ... Lord knows none of us could pay our mortgages if we put all our eggs into the fDeluxe basket so to speak. All of us are friends having a bit of fun playing, making and marketing music on our terms.

3. Yes, we realise the band is known mainly to devotees of Prince but we are doing all we can to expand our fanbase. That's not easy in 2012 but hey, you gotta be in it to win it.

4. Are fDeluxe supporting Prince in Oz. No. But if they ask and contracts were presented we'd be there in a heartbeat if the deal made sense, just as we would if it was any high profile act who plays in front of a large audience.

5. Are we touring more. yes. Stay tuned for more news - possibly some co-bills with some old friends, possibly some with new friends.

Always interesting to log in and read the comments whichever side of the fence they sit.

BTW, here's some press on the album:

I'm sorry but based purely on this comment...the question must be asked...who exactly are YOU...in relation to fDeluxe...that would merit giving this comment any sort of consideration?

fDeluxe's manager ... you can find all my contact info on their sites, CD and social networking if you need clarification. Best, Neil

rdhull said:

LOL how are you going to try and clown your creator

The song that's being parodied may or may not be dubious but the person who wrote it is responsible for your entire professional existence. It's a lose-lose situation for FD.

(cue the 'they are just as great on their own!' delusional faction)

Prince and his God complex. Gotta love that man lol.

[Edited 4/29/12 0:58am]

CrabalockerFishwife said:

flyorra said:

thats like if prince screws up one of james browns songs "just for fun" or publicity. not cool

I doubt they got much publicity from it. Does anybody actually read Dr. Funkenberry besides people at the org?

Yeah they actually do, he covers more than just Prince news

Square1entertainment said:

Hello Folks, just to clarify.

1. fDeluxe was not offended by Prince's email, he was staking at his territory with a musical piece of subtle sledging so we returned the favour. It's all a bit of fun. Nothing more than that.

2. The band is not doing this for the money ... Lord knows none of us could pay our mortgages if we put all our eggs into the fDeluxe basket so to speak. All of us are friends having a bit of fun playing, making and marketing music on our terms.

3. Yes, we realise the band is known mainly to devotees of Prince but we are doing all we can to expand our fanbase. That's not easy in 2012 but hey, you gotta be in it to win it.

4. Are fDeluxe supporting Prince in Oz. No. But if they ask and contracts were presented we'd be there in a heartbeat if the deal made sense, just as we would if it was any high profile act who plays in front of a large audience.

5. Are we touring more. yes. Stay tuned for more news - possibly some co-bills with some old friends, possibly some with new friends.

Always interesting to log in and read the comments whichever side of the fence they sit.

BTW, here's some press on the album:

“From the skintight beats of Gaslight’s opening track, Drummers and Healers, fDeluxe’s

supremely taut and sensual soul is not only intact, it’s rejuvenated. The former disciples of

the elfin one have returned, 25 years wiser, to make a statement — self-produced, selfreleasedand one of the most exciting records I’ve heard this year.” Paul Sexton, The

Sunday Times

“Gaslight makes one thing resoundingly clear: with Prince nowhere in sight, fDeluxe have

created a far more absorbing and multi-layered album than anything the man himself has

put his name to for at least a decade.” Echoes (UK)

“A split from their royal ruler may have caused a name change but this display of

sophisticated jazz and subtle funk shows they’re more than court rejects.”

The Daily Mirror (UK)

“A perfectly distilled dose of funk and modern soul that lights up your brain like a pinball

machine from the first beat.” Guitarist Magazine

“Gaslight is a confident, smoothly funky return that shows off the band’s impressive

musical chops” Metro (UK)

“The combination of Susannah Melvoin’s winsome vocals, Paul Peterson’s muscular bass

lines, Jellybean Johnson’s searing rock-inflected guitar and saxophonist Eric Leeds’ jazzy,

bebop-inflected riffing creates a funk and soul experience that is singular, wonderful and

sometimes transcendent.” Black Sheep Mag (UK)

“fDeluxe have produced a fine album that stylistically sits comfortably alongside the

original 1985 album and yet which is far from being a dated museum piece. The

Minneapolis funk element is still present, but there's a strong, almost palpable,

contemporary vibe, which means that 'Gaslight' isn't an empty exercise in retro nostalgia. ”

Charles Waring, SoulandJazzandfunk.com

“Gaslight"… is both a continuation of the Family and a journey in new directions. In other

words, it's got plenty of sanctified funk, dreamy pop, soulful duets and jazzy saxophone.”

Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“'Gaslight' is an exciting epic that boldly defies convention.” PennyBlackMusic

“Great album!” Peter Young, Jazz FM

“This return finds the original four piece on impressively supple, sophisticated and funk

fired form.” Uncut

“Peterson, Melvoin, saxophonist Eric Leeds and drummer Jellybean Johnson have made a

record of jazzy, funky pop, revisiting the Minneapolis sound of the '80s while also moving

forward.” AOL Spinner

“The first and hopefully not only album by the group is full of old-fashioned good-listening

funk that never sounds dated.” BN/DeStem (The Netherlands)

“Gaslight is a triumphant and welcome return for fDeluxe!” PopBlerd

“The band is fDeluxe. The album is Gaslight. They used to be The Family, who recorded

"Screams of Passion" and the original version of "Nothing Compares to You." Saw them at

Joe's Pub. St. Paul Peterson, Susannah Melvoin, Jellybean Johnson and Eric Leeds are

fDeluxe, vets of a gang of great Minneapolis bands (The Time, Madhouse) and more.

Great musicians playing funk ass music. That's a movement I support. This has not been a

paid promotional announcement.”

Nelson George, acclaimed Music and Culture Critic/Producer (Chris Rock, Show

American Gangster, VH1’s Hip Hop Honors & more)

[Edited 4/28/12 17:57pm]

Y'all (you guys and Prince) are acting like ding dongs instead of the musical legends that you all are.

^ so let's move along from this thread, stop quoting FDeluxe's response in it's entirety and look to this weeks jam instalment. (wonder who he'll piss off this week......stay tuned.

Geez, 'Mutiny drama' is so last week'

[Edited 4/29/12 8:17am]

80spfantwp said:

^ so let's move along from this thread, stop quoting FDeluxe's response in it's entirety and look to this weeks jam instalment. (wonder who he'll piss off this week......stay tuned.

Geez, 'Mutiny drama' is so last week'

[Edited 4/29/12 8:17am]

[Snipped flame - langebleu, moderator]

dont worry about what I do (especially if you're supposedly bored).

leave your attitude at the door

No need to get personal. Who you think you are, Prince?

Jeez it was a joke:

joke (jk)

[Edited 4/29/12 8:38am]

80spfantwp said:

leave your attitude at the door

No need to get personal. Who you think you are, Prince?

Jeez it was a joke:

joke (jk)

n.

1. Something said or done to evoke laughter or amusement, especially an amusing story with a punch line.

2. A mischievous trick; a prank.

3. An amusing or ludicrous incident or situation.

4. Informal

a. Something not to be taken seriously; a triviality: The accident was no joke.

b. An object of amusement or laughter; a laughingstock: His loud tie was the joke of the office.

v. joked, jok·ing, jokes

v.intr.

1. To tell or play jokes; jest.

2. To speak in fun; be facetious.

v.tr.

To make fun of; tease.

[Edited 4/29/12 8:38am]

^not actually bored with it..and sux at making jokes

.

[Edited 4/29/12 8:44am]

lets be clear .. the only reason people know who THE FAMILY are is because of SINEAD O'CONNOR not PRINCE. if prince had his way that whole band would die in obscurity, very evident by his unwillingness to collaborate again and his 'issues' with the BAND whose name was THE FAMILY calling themselves THE FAMILY. just to be clear .. it doesn't matter if prince wrote the songs, which clearly at very least eric leads collaborated sufficiantly on, what matters is it was their band name and they played on the record. there are plenty of cover bands that can perform under their OWN name, why shouldn't the family? .. because prince hates them.

and also to be clear .. paul may not be the greatest singer, but if he hopped up and performed all the family songs with prince, that would be infinately better than hearing even one song with shelby on it, or andy, or tony m, or bonnie boyer, or a rap by cat

in fact .. prince owes sidead, the family, sheila e. the time and the revolution a huge thanks for helping make prince famous .. he is still performing THEIR work and THEIR contributions to his legacy as a concert draw. it takes more than just a good song to get over, the family album is a classic among all prince records, prince takes these things for granted, as tho his version of nothing compares to you could ever hold a candle to sineads. prince wake up, you are talented but you are not god, stop acting like a spoiled brat and show some respect.

Square1entertainment said:

HatrinaHaterwitz said:

I'm sorry but based purely on this comment...the question must be asked...who exactly are YOU...in relation to fDeluxe...that would merit giving this comment any sort of consideration?

fDeluxe's manager ... you can find all my contact info on their sites, CD and social networking if you need clarification. Best, Neil

Oh, ok. Cool! Thanks for clearing that up for me. Tell the group I said "Hi".

TrevorAyer said:

lets be clear .. the only reason people know who THE FAMILY are is because of SINEAD O'CONNOR not PRINCE. if prince had his way that whole band would die in obscurity, very evident by his unwillingness to collaborate again and his 'issues' with the BAND whose name was THE FAMILY calling themselves THE FAMILY. just to be clear .. it doesn't matter if prince wrote the songs, which clearly at very least eric leads collaborated sufficiantly on, what matters is it was their band name and they played on the record. there are plenty of cover bands that can perform under their OWN name, why shouldn't the family? .. because prince hates them.

and also to be clear .. paul may not be the greatest singer, but if he hopped up and performed all the family songs with prince, that would be infinately better than hearing even one song with shelby on it, or andy, or tony m, or bonnie boyer, or a rap by cat

in fact .. prince owes sidead, the family, sheila e. the time and the revolution a huge thanks for helping make prince famous .. he is still performing THEIR work and THEIR contributions to his legacy as a concert draw. it takes more than just a good song to get over, the family album is a classic among all prince records, prince takes these things for granted, as tho his version of nothing compares to you could ever hold a candle to sineads. prince wake up, you are talented but you are not god, stop acting like a spoiled brat and show some respect.

i'm not sure, but i thought prince wrote those songs and gave them to them. what are you talking about?

Square1entertainment said:

Hello Folks, just to clarify.

1. fDeluxe was not offended by Prince's email, he was staking at his territory with a musical piece of subtle sledging so we returned the favour. It's all a bit of fun. Nothing more than that.

2. The band is not doing this for the money ... Lord knows none of us could pay our mortgages if we put all our eggs into the fDeluxe basket so to speak. All of us are friends having a bit of fun playing, making and marketing music on our terms.

3. Yes, we realise the band is known mainly to devotees of Prince but we are doing all we can to expand our fanbase. That's not easy in 2012 but hey, you gotta be in it to win it.

4. Are fDeluxe supporting Prince in Oz. No. But if they ask and contracts were presented we'd be there in a heartbeat if the deal made sense, just as we would if it was any high profile act who plays in front of a large audience.

5. Are we touring more. yes. Stay tuned for more news - possibly some co-bills with some old friends, possibly some with new friends.

Always interesting to log in and read the comments whichever side of the fence they sit.

BTW, here's some press on the album:

“From the skintight beats of Gaslight’s opening track, Drummers and Healers, fDeluxe’s

supremely taut and sensual soul is not only intact, it’s rejuvenated. The former disciples of

the elfin one have returned, 25 years wiser, to make a statement — self-produced, selfreleasedand one of the most exciting records I’ve heard this year.” Paul Sexton, The

Sunday Times

“Gaslight makes one thing resoundingly clear: with Prince nowhere in sight, fDeluxe have

created a far more absorbing and multi-layered album than anything the man himself has

put his name to for at least a decade.” Echoes (UK)

“A split from their royal ruler may have caused a name change but this display of

sophisticated jazz and subtle funk shows they’re more than court rejects.”

The Daily Mirror (UK)

“A perfectly distilled dose of funk and modern soul that lights up your brain like a pinball

machine from the first beat.” Guitarist Magazine

“Gaslight is a confident, smoothly funky return that shows off the band’s impressive

musical chops” Metro (UK)

“The combination of Susannah Melvoin’s winsome vocals, Paul Peterson’s muscular bass

lines, Jellybean Johnson’s searing rock-inflected guitar and saxophonist Eric Leeds’ jazzy,

bebop-inflected riffing creates a funk and soul experience that is singular, wonderful and

sometimes transcendent.” Black Sheep Mag (UK)

“fDeluxe have produced a fine album that stylistically sits comfortably alongside the

original 1985 album and yet which is far from being a dated museum piece. The

Minneapolis funk element is still present, but there's a strong, almost palpable,

contemporary vibe, which means that 'Gaslight' isn't an empty exercise in retro nostalgia. ”

Charles Waring, SoulandJazzandfunk.com

“Gaslight"… is both a continuation of the Family and a journey in new directions. In other

words, it's got plenty of sanctified funk, dreamy pop, soulful duets and jazzy saxophone.”

Minneapolis Star-Tribune

“'Gaslight' is an exciting epic that boldly defies convention.” PennyBlackMusic

“Great album!” Peter Young, Jazz FM

“This return finds the original four piece on impressively supple, sophisticated and funk

fired form.” Uncut

“Peterson, Melvoin, saxophonist Eric Leeds and drummer Jellybean Johnson have made a

record of jazzy, funky pop, revisiting the Minneapolis sound of the '80s while also moving

forward.” AOL Spinner

“The first and hopefully not only album by the group is full of old-fashioned good-listening

funk that never sounds dated.” BN/DeStem (The Netherlands)

“Gaslight is a triumphant and welcome return for fDeluxe!” PopBlerd

“The band is fDeluxe. The album is Gaslight. They used to be The Family, who recorded

"Screams of Passion" and the original version of "Nothing Compares to You." Saw them at

Joe's Pub. St. Paul Peterson, Susannah Melvoin, Jellybean Johnson and Eric Leeds are

fDeluxe, vets of a gang of great Minneapolis bands (The Time, Madhouse) and more.

Great musicians playing funk ass music. That's a movement I support. This has not been a

paid promotional announcement.”

Nelson George, acclaimed Music and Culture Critic/Producer (Chris Rock, Show

American Gangster, VH1’s Hip Hop Honors & more)

[Edited 4/28/12 17:57pm]

Who the funk was saying Fdeluxe made a bad record?! This screams insecurity.

Chill out, man. I'm sure most love the record as do i although, to say it's better than the last decade of works by Prince like that chap you quoted is utterly laughable, why on earth would you post such a quote/joke? That combined with some of your Facebook posts as of late gives one the image of bitterness.

Fdeluxe was supposed to be a separation from Prince, probably the reason he denied you the original name, so he won't be attached to it in any way....If anything, he helped you out, how about actually doing that? Just be Fdeluxe and don't give a care about what the Org is saying nor Prince.

A joke would of been just that if someone's Facebook didn't feature bitter-like posts like "Prince wrote such a great song (Mutiny) but I personally think this version is so much better! *shares link to Fdeluxe version*".

I'm always surprised at how classless adults can be... then I log on and am reminded.

WetDream said:

TrevorAyer said:

lets be clear .. the only reason people know who THE FAMILY are is because of SINEAD O'CONNOR not PRINCE. if prince had his way that whole band would die in obscurity, very evident by his unwillingness to collaborate again and his 'issues' with the BAND whose name was THE FAMILY calling themselves THE FAMILY. just to be clear .. it doesn't matter if prince wrote the songs, which clearly at very least eric leads collaborated sufficiantly on, what matters is it was their band name and they played on the record. there are plenty of cover bands that can perform under their OWN name, why shouldn't the family? .. because prince hates them.

and also to be clear .. paul may not be the greatest singer, but if he hopped up and performed all the family songs with prince, that would be infinately better than hearing even one song with shelby on it, or andy, or tony m, or bonnie boyer, or a rap by cat

in fact .. prince owes sidead, the family, sheila e. the time and the revolution a huge thanks for helping make prince famous .. he is still performing THEIR work and THEIR contributions to his legacy as a concert draw. it takes more than just a good song to get over, the family album is a classic among all prince records, prince takes these things for granted, as tho his version of nothing compares to you could ever hold a candle to sineads. prince wake up, you are talented but you are not god, stop acting like a spoiled brat and show some respect.

Again, with all of the emotions at a fever boil, do you guys not realize that this is all hype? "Jamie Starrs a thief!" If anybody should be getting this inside joke, it should be those of us at this site instead of becoming so angry at the artists and at each other. However, there are a few things in your post that seem a bit off base.

*

First, O'Connor may have discovered "Nothing Compares 2 U" from The Family's album, but, if I remember correctly, when it was a hit, people were saying she was covering a Prince song. I may be wrong, but I don't remember anybody in the mainstream press saying that she was covering a Family song. Secondly, while I heard Prince's version after hearing The Family's and O’Connor's version, I never liked The Family's or O'Connor's version. They both seemed to lack something, but I couldn't tell what until I heard Prince's live 1990 version. And while I can't refute O'Connor's sells as it obviously touched millions, they both seemed a bit bland and soulless to me, and when I heard Prince's version I realized that both of their versions lacked "soul" and would, of course, appeal to mainstream listeners who like watered down soul rather than pure soul, which gets me to my next comment.

*

To say that St. Paul, whom I like a great deal, is a better singer than Shelby and Bonnie says that you like watered down or pseudo soul rather than soul music. St. Paul doesn't have the power, texture, richness, or depth in his voice as Shelby and Bonnie, and I'm just glad you stopped short of Rosie. I'll give St. Paul his credit. He's somewhat funky, but his voice isn't in the same league with Shelby or Bonnie, and I would rank Bonnie third behind Rosie and Shelby. At best, St. Paul is a lesser version of Morris Day, and I mean that as no slight to St. Paul. St. Paul can play the guitar, and Morris can play the drums, but St. Paul does not seem nearly as accomplished as a front man or solo act as the top tier acts of Morris, Jesse, Shelia, even Wendy and Lisa for that matter, and, again, vocally, he is not quite at the level with Rosie, Shelby, or Bonnie.

*

Yet, be all of that as it may, this is just hype. We should be laughing at this, enjoying it for what it is--promotional sparring. Yes, it is fun to pick sides, but when it gets to statements like "Prince hates the family" and people on the other side calling The Family “irrelevant” or “leaches”, well that's just too much and taking it way too far of what it seems it is meant to be--promotional hype. In the words of that great philosopher and bridge builder, Rodney King, “Can’t we all just get along?”

yeah but morris day isn't a good singer but can you at least admit it is far more authentic than if tony m or shelby sang lead on a song the TIME did. there is a reason some bands or people have hits who are not songwriters and not technically great, its the delivery, and while shelby can sing psuedo soul and grunt her way thru more vocal runs than st. paul, there is still an authenticity the family brings that shelby simply does not have. for that matter you must respect what it was, the family, not a prince record, and for what it was, it really works, screams of passion, river run dry sound great as is, nothing compares to you doesnt pop like sineads version but it was good enough to draw her attention and propel her version to number one, a feat prince has rarely achieved on his own. and again, so instead of allowing people to discover the family's original version, prince instead records his own version, further attempting to bury and make insignificant the family. i love rosie but not shelby and to be honset they both perform pseudo soul, it is simply an imitiation of passion, pretty much copying the sound of patti labelle but lacking in any authentic drive, which makes pauls delivery more soulful, because while hes not great, he at least isn't trying to sound like every soul based bar band ever, he and prince were trying to make something unheard before, truly unique and certainly the family record was a success in that arena

TrevorAyer said:

yeah but morris day isn't a good singer but can you at least admit it is far more authentic than if tony m or shelby sang lead on a song the TIME did. there is a reason some bands or people have hits who are not songwriters and not technically great, its the delivery, and while shelby can sing psuedo soul and grunt her way thru more vocal runs than st. paul, there is still an authenticity the family brings that shelby simply does not have. for that matter you must respect what it was, the family, not a prince record, and for what it was, it really works, screams of passion, river run dry sound great as is, nothing compares to you doesnt pop like sineads version but it was good enough to draw her attention and propel her version to number one, a feat prince has rarely achieved on his own. and again, so instead of allowing people to discover the family's original version, prince instead records his own version, further attempting to bury and make insignificant the family. i love rosie but not shelby and to be honset they both perform pseudo soul, it is simply an imitiation of passion, pretty much copying the sound of patti labelle but lacking in any authentic drive, which makes pauls delivery more soulful, because while hes not great, he at least isn't trying to sound like every soul based bar band ever, he and prince were trying to make something unheard before, truly unique and certainly the family record was a success in that arena

At this juncture, the only thing left to do is debate the terms "authentic" and "pseudo soul," which while I do believe can be established in an empirical manner, it is clear that we stand too far apart in what each of us would deem "authentic" or "pseudo soul," and I guess that both of us have heard enough bar bands, cafe' bands, juke joint bands, hole in the wall bands, and gospel choirs to stand firmly on what each of us thinks is "authentic" and "pseudo". So, we'll just have to agree to disagree when you say that The Family brings an authenticity that Shelby does not and that both Shelby and Rosie perform pseudo soul. We are just hearing that completely differently. The only thing left would be the diatribes of both of us presenting our personal listening backgrounds to show who's had a more authentic listening experience regarding soul/R&B, which would still be subjective. I can hear the honesty in St. Paul's performances, but, in regards to closeness or level of excellence, he pales in comparison to Shelby and Rosie. And as the reverse seems to be true for you, that means we stand too far apart in our understanding of what is "authentic" and "pseudo soul" to attempt an empirical discourse to evaluate how we rank or rate them. Thus, I'll only add that "trying to sound like every soul based barn band ever" is not a bad thing where I live because I come from the places (Mississippi and Southern cafes and churches) that grew the Aretha Franklins, Al Greens, Luther Vandrosses, Sam Cookes, Patti LaBelles, etc., who were all mimicking the sounds and riffs of someone before them, keeping the flame alive while adding their own flavor to it. I can hear the legacy and personal flavor in the voices of Shelby and Rosie, but not in St. Paul.

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As for Tony M, I did not mention him because he is clearly inauthentic because Prince was simply trying to coopt hip-hop but use someone with whom he felt comfortable or someone he could control; yet, since I'm not a big hip hop fan, Prince's rapping or Tony M's rapping didn't bother me that much because I do not really know what real "hip hop" is. Yet, to lump Shelby into that category just doesn't sound right to my ears, but, again, those are my subjective ears.

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As for The Family's album being a success of Prince trying to create something unheard and unique, I am one of those people who could always hear the history or influence in everything that Prince was doing. What is unique is the manner in which he blends rock, funk, and soul/R&B, but I could always hear the legacy of black music and some white music so that it never sounded as something I had never heard but moreso as a fresh perspective on past greatness. Even during the eighties Prince is "in the tradition" to use an Amiri Baraka (author of Blues People) term, just another example of the "changing same," another Baraka term. Thus, The Family's record is different than most of what was on eighties radio, but only in the manner in which Prince, using Eric Leeds and others, is able to provide a fresh take on the history of great music. It is not so much unheard as it is a fresh perspective. St. Paul was, essentially, the new Morris--the changing same. Yes, he added his own flavor, but The Family was not so much as revolutionary as they were just a solid group with fresh ideas on an older formula.

HonestMan13 said:

I'm always surprised at how classless adults can be... then I log on and am reminded.

Yeah some folks are bashing the guy way too harshly, the guy is just doing his job, and he can post whatever he wants, it's all good. But from what he has posted here in the past, the guy makes Reuben Kincaid from The Partridge Family look like a genius.

Wit, subtlety and finesse are not the guy's strong point, and that's why people lack respect for the guy.

[Edited 4/29/12 21:03pm]

^^^ Didn't read the thread but Rueben's hang dog expression had me rolling!

V10LETBLUES said:

MarquessMarq said:

I'd like to think that if I could gyrate my hips like that fucking bear my life would somehow be ok.

stevefraser67 said:

Who are you talking about?

That's what I was wondering too.

Pretty lame - and I have actually been to Menard's.

That made me laugh. Good one guys...