I was instantly in love with the album. I found it actually. It was in a bin at the record store, in the Prince section. Initially I thought it may have been misplaced because of the cover. Because there was literally no promotion, I bought it because I loved Prince's music. I told a friend once, that Prince's music continues to grow with me. I grew up listening to all kinds of music, but I went through phases. I wanted to be rebel, and Controversy and Dirty Mind did it for me. Then I wanted to just have fun, dance and sex, and 1999 and Purple Rain was there. Started thinking about God when Lovesexy came out, and as I got older, I noticed that Prince's music fit me where I was. I am a jazz musician, so from the first notes, I was hooked. I remember so excited that I opened the CD as I was walking to my truck, and ended up sitting in the parking lot for the duration of the CD. I love that Prince has always challenged me and did the unexpected with every release, that makes being a fan an experience, and I love new experiences. But I have to say after a few listens I started to listen to the words, and I realized how much thought and effort went into creating this atmosphere. I mean I started seeing this music, I mean the King and Queen, Rainbow Children, the feast. So more than just the music, I appreciated the creativity, and today, it's one of the albums where I start at the first song, and don't skip.

[Edited 7/15/16 7:59am]

aiden said:

Interesting perspective, which I will try on next LISTEN while respecting Prince coming from a heart felt place. I already do that for the much hated song Graffiti Bridge, and I like the song!

JoeyCococo said:

The album bowled me over with the musicality.

I could not understand the deep voice which was probably why I let the music sunk in like it did. When i did read the narration, I was not thrilled. However, u can't deny the greatness and simplicity of the She Loves Me 4 Me ode to Manuela or the anthemic and emotional The Last December. The man was on fire.

I was concerned by his conservative direction but then i heard Underneath The Cream and was relieved to hear him go back (quietly) to his nasty self

My thoughts exactly!!