Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Piano & A Microphone 1983 is set to be released in September.
(Photo: The Prince Estate/Allen Beaulieu)Prince, who died April 21, 2016, would have been 60 today.
Marking that, the musician’s estate and Warner Bros. have announced the posthumous release of Piano & A Microphone 1983, which was recorded at Prince’s home in Chanhassen, Minnesota. The album’s set for release Sept. 21.
The nine tracks, clocking in at about 35 minutes, ostensibly find Prince in rehersal mode, as he’s working through songs like “17 Days” and “Purple Rain” that wouldn’t be properly issued until 1984.
“This raw, intimate recording, which took place at the start of Prince’s career right before he achieved international stardom, is similar in format to the Piano & A Microphone Tour that he ended his career with in 2016,” said Prince Estate entertainment adviser Troy Carter. “The estate is excited to be able to give fans a glimpse of his evolution and show how his career ultimately came full circle with just him and his piano.”
For additional information, visit the Prince Estate website. DB
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
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