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Prince – 1999 (3:42)

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About This Track

“1999” is one of Prince’s best-known songs, and a defining moment in his rise to superstar status. The apocalyptic yet upbeat party anthem saw chart success in 1983, peaking at #12 in the US and #25 in the UK (reaching #2 in the UK when re-released in 1985). The album version of the song starts with a slowed-down voice, reassuring the listener “Don’t worry, I won’t hurt you. I only want you to have some fun. ” Prince shares lead vocals on the track with members of his band The Revolution, namely Dez Dickerson, Lisa Coleman and Jill Jones. Originally conceived to be a three-part harmony, it was later decided to separate out the voices that started each verse. The verse melody was reused by Prince (writing under the name “Christopher”) in the song “Manic Monday,” originally written for Apollonia 6’s eponymous 1984 album, but withdrawn at the last minute and eventually given to The Bangles. The synth chords inspired Phil Collins’ song “Sussudio” as well as Marillion’s “Incommunicado”.

The B-side, the piano ballad “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?”, became a fan favorite. It was covered first by Stephanie Mills, then by Alicia Keys and performed by Canadian Idol winner Eva Avila.

In 1985, “1999” was released as a 12” single in the U.S. with “Little Red Corvette” as the B-side, and “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?”/”D.M.S.R.” in the UK.
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