How do U think it would have been recieved by the critics and fans? A work of genius or a self indulgent extravagance?

Interesting! Around 87 the critics loved Prince. Personally I think Crystal Ball (triple LP) would have been praised by the critics but would have sold less than SOTT did. I actually think that SOTT would have sold more if it had been a single LP (but what songs to leave off?) and obviously Prince should have toured the USA in support (such madness).

Another possible question to ask is what if The Revolution had not split up and they had released Dream Factory in 87 instead?

So many what ifs!

I've always wondered about this. I think it would have been his crowning acheivement as SOTT is, so the longer version "Crystal Ball" would have a masterpiece. Also there Prince might still be with WB had they let him release the album the way it was meant to be. Just think if he toured the U.S. with this album. WOW!! It would have made Lovesexy look corny in comparison.

joyinrepetition said:

I'd agree that it would have been -- and is -- a masterpiece. Many critics would have loved it, but several would have dismissed it as self-indulgent and narcissistic.

Don't make me cry by imagining a Crystal Ball tour. Too painful to even think about! Man, what could have been. Life goes on.

NO WAY, however, could it have made Lovesexy look corny. To me, anyway, the album is a masterpiece in its own right.

I think it would have split critics right down the middle. U would either have loved or hated it. I remember hearing the title track 4 the first time and just thinking WOW!!! Liz Jones called it Prince drunk on his own genius and I totally agree. If Crystal Ball had been OK'd by Warners I think P would still be with them and we would have the remasters with extra tracks that we all so desperately want.

joyinrepetition said:

This is funny, because the people at WB(Mo Ostin) that wouldn't let him release the 3lp, are not even with the company anymore.