Former Prince collaborator St. Paul Peterson has unveiled a new single titled "Something in the Water," celebrating the rich musical history of Minneapolis. It follows last month's "Minne Forget Me Not" as new material from the keyboardist and singer that celebrates his hometown.

The track, which is embedded below, asserts that “something in the water” makes Minneapolis so funky, while name-dropping many of the city’s famous artists, including Jimmy Jam, Terry Lewis and Morris Day. Though Prince is not overtly mentioned like some of the other musicians, the Purple One’s influence on the track is evident.

The song was co-written and produced by Oliver Leiber, whom Peterson praised as a working partner. "Oliver Leiber and I have been writing songs together going all the way back to 1986 and my first solo single, ‘Rich Man,’" Peterson explained via press release. "He understands what I want to say and is the ultimate collaborator. His clever lyrics and incredible guitar playing set the tone to explain why Minneapolis is so funky."

Peterson initially came to prominence as a keyboardist for the Time, contributing to their final album, Ice Cream Castles. After that group disintegrated, Prince called on Peterson to front his new band, the Family. The group released their debut self-titled album in 1985, with Prince writing all but one of the tracks. The LP is best remembered for the song "Nothing Compares 2 U," which Sinead O'Connor scored a hit with years later.

Since then, Peterson has worked with a diverse range of artists, including Paula Abdul, Mavis Staples, Brian Culbertson and Victor Wooten. He scored a Grammy nomination in 1996 after penning the track "Song for My Brother" for George Benson.

"Something in the Water" will be available Aug. 27.

 

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