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On Aug. 19, 1985, Prince released one of the best albums of his career — but it didn’t have his name on it.

She thought she was just dealing with an overly zealous sound technician.

“You’re an artist just like I am. You need to be making your own music, and sometimes you need to take a leap for yourself.”

The unreleased 'Black is the New Black' found Prince crafting an uncompromising blend of rock, jazz and soul – and opening himself up to true collaboration.

He took it onstage for his last public appearance, but was never seen playing the custom instrument that had lain unwanted for 9 years.