40 Years Ago: Prince Combines Sex, Synths and Doomsday on ‘1999’
The multi-talented artist's fifth album was largely created via sonic experimentations in his home studio. His 1982 LP would become his breakthrough release.
Anniversaries
How Prince Began to Put Everything in Place With 'Controversy'
He started to transform into a world-beating '80s phenom on this transitional fourth album.
30 Years Ago: Prince Swings Big With the 'Love Symbol Album'
After proving he could still rule the charts, Prince took a wild left turn.
How Prince Slid Into Greatness on 'Dirty Mind'
Third album is charm for legend in the making.
How Prince Returned to the Mainstream With 'Diamonds and Pearls'
After a critical stumble on 'Graffiti Bridge,' he was in need of a hit.
How Prince Somehow Roared Back With 'Gold Experience'
People were still trying to figure out, you know, what even to call him.
'1999' Facts: Learn More About Prince's Apocalyptic Masterpiece
Only "Purple Rain" has done more to introduce or define Prince to the world than "1999."
How Prince Tried to Re-Write His Past With '1999: The New Master'
Revisiting how Prince's vision of owning his master recordings led to seven new versions of 1982 single.
How ‘1999’ Helped Prince Break Down Barriers at MTV
The music video marked a turning point for both the artist and the network.
20 Years Ago: Prince 'Retires' '1999' at 'Rave Un2 the Year 2000'
Pay-per-view special on New Year's Eve was supposed to be the final performance of the apocalyptic classic.