CURRENT SECTIONS:

  • Which Prince record have u re-purchased the most times?
  • How should society close Pandora's Box and what role does the government play in this?
  • PRINCE, never 2 go on tour or record another album?
  • What do NPGMC MEMBERS think of WB's so-called "Best of" CD?
  • Feedback on the NPG MUSIC CLUB
  • if NPGMC has a subscription service and Napster houses some of the files, is this copyright infringement or not?
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    • What do U, as members of the NPG Music Club, think of the latest "Best of" CD Time Warner has released, keeping in mind of course the fact that Prince makes virtually no money from the CD?




    Some of the responses so far:
    Of course this is just one more attempt by Time Warner to ride on the coat tales of Prince's success. Those who understand the "scamdulous" nature of the CONtract business will steer clear of the CD, and purchase Prince's music under his "own" right, where he is justly compensated for the work he's done.

    Sincerely,
    Karen Briggs

    What's the point? Not only do most of us already own the original warner brother's albums, but most of us also already own the much-more thorough original Hits release, complete with a disc of b-sides. Warner's is just trying to milk what product they have for us much as they can get from it. Meanwhile, an abundance of new music is available through the NPG MUSIC CLUB.

    Out of respect for Prince I haven't purchased that album. It must be good though since it is all Prince!
    Karla

    I think you should release your own compilation right away! (the one you advertised on the Ahdio show) This way everyone can choose. Perhaps with a few promotional spots on the web and a couple TV appearances, you can clear the air on which CD came from the artist. Also I'd like to see a large promotional poster in the stores of that major record store that you were in "negotiations" with, in large print with your new greatest hit package and in small print at the foot of the poster with the WB album cover stating that "buying this (wb compilation) CD is like buying cotton from the plantation owner". Or "buying this CD is like buying an outfit made from an illegal sweatshop." Something to that effect that I think, in turn, would cause some media interest, thus sparking a few more TV, radio, and magazine interviews so you could explaining the real story. It was that "fight the power" type aggression you had back a few years ago that first grabbed my attention to your music.

    they shoulda called it "Pay Us For Something You Already Have So We Can Make Money From You and Prince, Again"

    And why are 'they' putting a so called "Greatest Hits" out again when a 3-disc w/ B-sides that includes all these songs already exists..... WHAT IS THE POINT? (see first line above for answer)

    Prince, my brother, I hope you and Londell are taking their legal fools through the chicken grease (vegan of course). I ain't buying this one.

    Vul4Vil

    eye feel that WB has stolen all that art.... P .should B the ONE and ONLY 2 get any $ from any of the sales @ the same time i must add EYE DID NOT BUY THE CD!!!!!!!!!!!
    there4 they did not get my $ ;-)
    charlie &ellen
    love ya!

    Warner Bros aka Fatal Attraction

    It is very apparent that Warner Bros. is rather trying to tick us off, make up on loss profits, or just desperate to have whatever is left of my brothers legacy on the shelves because they now realize what they had lost. It kinda reminds me of the jealous old flame that likes to poke ya when you are doing better with someone new (or by yourself) instead of with him/her. Warner Bros, you are really beginning to scare me now! Next thing you know, there is going to be a bunny boiling in a pot in my brothers kitchen.

    Warner Bros, by you doing this, it only shows that you have no integrity, ethics, or dignity to what was once a part of you. You just want to cash in on my brother because you know that he is the real deal. And from the awareness that he has started for artist of the kind to go and own their own work is making you quake. So keep on doing what you are doing, hear? Also, while you are at it, keep signing One Hit Wonders and piss them off too. I hope that they all wake up and drop you like a bad habit (before you drop them) and make millions (if not billions) right under your noses. Freedom is not free. We all had to (and still have to) fight everyday for it. It is like my brother Joseph in the Old Testament. The brother had shackles on him and was still looking up, not looking down like most of the slaves were. That is because as it says in the Word, "Now Joseph had a Dream..." (Gen37:5).

    And for those that are still thinking about buying it, let me leave you with this one little advice. If you are a true Fam, you should already have all the songs that WB is going to release on this CD (I've seen the list. It isn't anything new). So, save yourself some money and just burn your own Greatest Hits collection on CD and stop giving those Fatal Attraction wannabes your money. As far as my Brother Prince, see you again at the Celebration next year Brother P. I still need to shoot some hoops wit' cha. Don't think that I forgot about that. Much Love!

    Albie Zayas
    Norcross, GA

    WB seems intent on cashing in on the proverbial cow. As a new admirer, I love all of Prince's old stuff - since it's new to me, but I'm sure I am in the minority --- however, as I support artists and their passion - not Corporations and their cents -- I do NOT, even for the love of the artist, buy bootlegs or in this case a regurgitated attempt of Warner Bros. to try and steal from the artist as they try and compensate for the sad scenario of their poorly executed movies of last/this year.

    Where is Mo in all of this? How does Prince feel? I would be outraged, "Yo! that is my shiznit! How dare you?" The only thing that can prevent WB from doing this again is to persuade consumers to boycott... however this can lead to a double edged sword and cause an unfavorable critics response--- but then again, who really cares what the critics think? Most are merely sad afterthoughts of rock stardom shot down. Much like actors who couldn't cut it are now radio broadcasters. I'm starting to sound like a cynic critic... my apologies!

    As a girl in bidness tho', my immediate thought would be to have Prince counteract WBs efforts with what folks have been waiting for .... NEW MUSIC!!! That fonky, mutha-shut-yo-mouth-booty-bangin' music that only P knows how to create.

    Just my thoughts.... and as far as the cover is concerned: He is fine throughout all decades, I dont mind it at all! ;-D

    "And if ya see da police coming.... Warner Bros!"

    Of course it's not the best!
    Sorry man that they r jippin' u on the funds, but a true Prince fan knows that his best stuff never seen the light of day a.k.a. airplay! "Dorthy Parker" or "Freaks on This Side" aint on the album!
    Suckers come in many forms and flavas!
    Love Jesus y'all!
    Rev. Ant

    I think he's been BAMBOOZLED.....HOODWINKED!
    That's okay though...cuz money is ONLY pavement in Heaven...TW can keep their chump change...I'd rather see P-Dawg keep his respect & dignity rather then a few coins......we got your back Prince!

    Michelle from Cali

    Artwork is wack... U've grown from that... Y can't they? & calling it "The Very Best of Prince"? Someones needs 2 put a torch 2 the system. Tommie Cool

    the collage is nice but, whats the purpose of tru fams gettin it! just logon 2 the music club and get new prince music! anyway what their releasing, tru fams should have it anyway ! ya' dig!!!!!!!!!!!! im an arist and BECUZ of prince struggle im no longer looking 2 get CON-tracted! i know the "TRUTH" and the one who acquires knowledge and wisdom will lengthen his days!

    I think its typical of corporate America to continue to hold captive, control and use the work of its citizens for their benefit and gain. One would hope to think that after all this time and circumstances, Warner's would either present Prince with his masters, offer some agreement on release of this material in their possession or execute enough respect and leave them be. As Warner's grew in 80's and 90's with help of Prince music sales(and they continue to grow), I believe they forgot about the effort, the creativity of their artists and any respect of that effort. It made certain individuals rich and I guess that's hard to let go of--getting richer--making more money off other's efforts.
    Personally, I won't purchase it. I know perhaps some royalty of publishing may come his way but with all he has given for all these years, Prince deserves to receive something more.
    I purchased all Warner's had while Prince was with them. Once he left, I did no more.
    Here's hoping the goal of getting those masters back in its CREATOR'S hands and back "home where those children belong", never dies.
    Thanks.

    I think it is another example of the predatory nature of contracts given to musicians who are excited to have an opportunity to share the gifts with the world. I have no problem with companies recouping their investments to get an artist started or even making profits in the form of interest. However the creator of the art should be the only one to receive any rewards from work that is still of value in the latter years. It should have never been standard practice to apply such share-cropping standards to contracts for immediate gain. For a record company to be able to 10, 15 or 25 years latter get royalties from someone else's invention, is the same premise that those who achieved wealth from slave labor centuries ago, and carry wealth to their offspring for many generations was built on. I feel Prince on this, because his body of work has been outstanding and all encompassing, yet the monetary gain is not there or he would of been the first African American billionaire, which would have changed the dynamics of overlooked individuals lives. When will the real pimps be arrested?

    I would not buy the cd unless it's from the npg music club

    Peace
    Eric Rudman

    what is it with these Record companies, they make millions outta an artist, then when they r free, they still rip them off...... i 4 one wont buy it.... y do u need it if ur a true fam u will have everything thats on it..... long may Prince make his own music and give it 2 us without the big record companies... go kick some a** Prince....

    Here R my thoughts on the project-

    1. Prince, and NPG, should release his own "greatest hits" collection. One that also includes "Batman" material and newer stuff (P. Control, etc.)
    2. Prince should release a video anthology to go along with the package (like the one Springsteen put out).
    3. Fams will buy this lame Warner/Rhino release, because we haven't been given any new Prince stuff to purchase at a store for 1 and a half years!

    just a load of suit boyz makin' a truck load o' money from somebody else's talent - its par 4 the course thesedays - - who is 2 judge what is the very best of Prince?

    Eye think that this "Best Of" cd that Warner Bros. is gonna release is a real kick in the face 2 Prince and his fams. The fact that Prince doesn't even work 4 Warner and that he won't even get a cent 4 his own songs that he produced, arranged, composed and performed is bulls**t!!!

    Also it the same songs that were on the Hits/B-sides package that was released back in 93. Eye think I'll wait til' Prince and the N.P.G release " Prince-A celebration " and support the crew!!!!

    Peace & B Wild
    BRIAN DAMASO

    Ignore it - it will go away.
    But, please - do start making CD's available soon for Premium Members. The new music I've been hearing with my Premium Membership is wonderful - can't get enough of Van Gough, Supercute, HypnoParadise... and really looking forward to hearing Rainbow Children someday.
    Sisterly love,
    "Paradise"

    I think Prince have to out THE RAINBOW CHILDREN, to show to the world that old stuff are good, but new one are perfect. With THE RAINBOW CHILDREN available, warner won't sell the "best of". I think a lot of people are waiting for a new PRINCE album, a new "concept" album , and Prince has a fantastic one ready to be in our ears. PLEASE show to warner how your music is your own properties with new sound, and let this best of to the past. MAke the future, that's what warner can't do anymore....
    Peace.
    Raphy

    What do I think? I think that WB is putting out a $$$ losing compilation and doesn't realize it. Between the superior Hits comp already being out there and the easy access to the tunes via the net (not to mention Prince actively discouraging folks from buying it), who is gonna pick this up? Not me.

    Randy

    I think Warners are suffering from lack of imagination here........i think we saw this a few years ago didn't we..........ok then but now........nope thanks!! Are Warners having a cashflow problem because the only thing this will make money for is them......you ain't gonna see any honey!! when someone creates music and it comes out of that persons thoughts and their own mind why should anyone else, but the person who created the work, have the right to own it..........that's why i ain't helping Warners cashflow. There is only one person who should be releasing it.......Warners it ain't..................Hale

    I think that Time/Warner should give the man his masters and let Prince decide the way he wants his children (music) to enter this world. I hope that BIG BUSINESS chocks on every dollar. I for one will not be buying it :-).

    Shell

    Fingerprint

    Dont put your hand on my art and call it yours
    Do take it 'way and cause it to die
    Don't melt it down and into your glass it pours
    Your victory--nothing but a lie.
    Read my words, but they know the Master
    Steal the line, but it always points back home.
    You cannot define a recurring disaster
    No! My genius is never on loan.
    Deny me if you must, life will fix you--
    Try me, I am not the one to deceive...take the hint
    Steal my jewels...marauder and despoiler too
    Dress it up, re-pack it, but never will it lose my fingerprint.

    Talmadge

    it certainly hasnt been promoted here.im not buying it.dr jay

    WB = Woefully Bought

    Obviously WB is in the market to make some flow in our new economic standard set by star-genius Bush. However, superfluously and flagrantly, i might add, saturating the population with a sadly put together BEST OF compilation is mos' def a Weak Bastardizing stint in hopes of padding their now thin pockets...

    why doesnt P give it to 'em in a sly ghetto-pimp-slap-ya-into-next-thursday-style by releasing his own BEST OF ... with a few new tracks to tantalize the masses?

    oooooh weeee! I'd love to be a fly on the wall for that "won" at the good ol' WB!

    P, whatchoo think?

    Artwork is not 2 fly. Though the subject is the coolest. This CD is a joke! They left out so many hits that werent included in the last "Hits" package. I will not be purchasing it (unless its used, and only then cause Im a "Fam-atic"). What happened to "7, Batdance, Sexy MF, Head, etc,etc,etc.......???????

    This set is a sad & blatant attempt to exploit Prince's music & fans by selling them music they undoubtedly already have. A perfect example of the mindless practices of the recording industry where little thought or consideration goes into the handling of an artist's legacy. Its apparent that this album, like countless others, is only a quick money making tool for Warner Bros., evident by the press release written to give the impression that such release is in the best interest of the artist when it is in fact the contrary. If all that isn't bad enough, don't you think they could've picked better artwork?

    HP

    I have no intention in purchasing this cd. As a matter of fact, what new cd? A perfect example of greed in it's purest form. As much as I absolutely ADORE the old school stuff, there is no way I'd purchase this dreamt-up cd. It only tells me that my friend Prince is still keeping them awake at nights when he's sound asleep. Not to mention that someone, somewhere is trying to penetrate Prince's intention of being his own Man and not their boy.Greetings from Oaktown. Lennor

    The fact that Time Warner is still using Prince's hard work to make money is totally wrong. If I remember, back in May of 2000, Prince told the press here in NYC that his contract with Time Warner expired. Therefore, they shouldn't use his stuff to make money off of him, am I correct?

    But it seems to me like Time Warner can't let go of Prince. I mean didn't they say that they wouldn't give Prince his masters even if he gave them a million dollars? They are so busy freeloading off of his stuff because they are afraid--afraid of losing money. So they use his success to make "Best of" albums.

    It seems to me like Time Warner is pretty messed up. They probably think that letting go of or the expired contract of the artist means that they free the artist without giving them their masters. WRONG. Now I'm no music genius (I'm a salsa dancer, hehe lol), but I do believe in doing the right thing. If anything, my suggestion is that there should be some kind of movement to get record companies like Time Warner to stop using the artist's work without their permission, especially if their contract is no longer in existence. I mean isn't what they are doing against the law?

    I don't know, but I just thought I'd state my 2 little cents, even if it did look like I didn't know what I was talking about lol. I mean, I don't know too much about this stuff but like I was saying, I believe in what's right. Prince should get paid; what Time Warner does is totally wrong. That's my opinion. Thanks for reading :).

    -Erica Barton, Bronx, New York

    I think that it is pathetic that time warner is trying to make more money off the man, that they don't deserve. They have already taking more than their fair share of his money. They are trying to give us something we already have....trying to cash in on whats already out there. If given the opportunity to buy fruit from the grower {when it's fresh} or buy from a grocer after it's been sitting around for a while and the price has been jacked up, which one would you choose?

    LUKE 10:7 ; for the laborer is worthy of his hire.

    I love the old joints...but I've heard them, and I have them. I crave the new stuff or the old stuff I haven't heard before. The only place to get what I want is from right here! The bad part about greatest hits packages is you miss out on all the other great joints that weren't hits.

    luv2u

    How does this anger me? Let me count the ways:
    1.) Right -- Prince makes no money. WB is just using his product to line their own pockets.
    2.) Nothing new. I already have all of this music. At least Hits/B-Sides had a handful of new songs (and of course the B-Sides)
    3.) Maybe 20 years ago or so it was nice of a record company to put out a compact single volume of hits since it was hard to press your own vinyl. But frankly, I have the original CD's and a CD-R drive. I've had almost this exact disc for a long time already for my own use.
    4.) Of course "best of" collections usually leave off the best tracks (where's "Adore" on this set?) or truncate the good ones they do have. The album versions are almost unanimously better, not to mention a single album often (at least it should) represents a well thought out meaningful presentation of the music. For example: "Baby I’m A Star " MUST follow "I Would Die 4 U." It's jarring to hear it any other way, and while I love both songs individually, the synergy of those two tracks back to back _still_ makes the hair on my neck stand on end.

    This is just a bad idea. The worst part is that your average Joe music consumer is going to think that Prince is putting this out and looking for some extra cash. Beyond stealing his music, WB is slandering his artistic name. Just know this: there are plenty of us still out here strong and we're willing to do the work!

    ~Tom in Chicago

    Some people say "well, you made your bed, now lie in it", but doesn't that just let Warner Brothers off the hook? It does not change the fact that all artist's should be the first and last decision-makers when it comes to their art and how it is distributed. If Prince had agreed to this collection and given his stamp of approval, we would be having a different conversation. But that is not the case, Prince did not give his permission, WB is releasing this CD regardless of anything Prince has to say. And how many dozens of times does this happen to artist's and musicians, living and deceased? How many "Greatest Hits" CDs do you see of jazz artists, soul musicians from the sixties, and legends from all genres of music? It is a clear case of treating art as a commodity and the artist as a brand-name, endlessly shuffling the same material onto re-packaged goods created solely for profit, and not the artist's profit either. This Best of CD is a waste of everyone's time and an insult to art and artist's everywhere.

    do they (WB) honestly think that people would want to buy a haphazard thoughtless compilation? especially from folks who care about the music? newcomers like myself have bought the starter kit - THE HITS ... why would i want additional leftovers? if i like the Hits, i'm buying the full album/cd of where my fav "hit" originated from... and once i get my hit offa all of the "classic" stuff -- more than likely, i'll be jonesing for some new tracks.

    i'm hearing rumours of HIGH and TRC (of which i had the opportunity to peep) and truthfully - i think a shrewd move and a flippin' of the bird to WB would be to release a compilation of these or "never released" joints. Why let the bootleggers and corporations siphon Prince's cash? dang, its his craft, his talent, his thoughts, love, and mind blowin' musical genius! WB has done nothing but picked the fat offa his blood, sweat and tears. and now they're going for the bone marrow.

    this obviously juvenile attempt (and poorly executed marketing tactics) of WBs exploitation of Prince's works is quite frankly ... lame - and we can all see thru it.

    WB is only a hop, skip and a drive by away... you let me know P.... ;-p

    ruthlesdva

    First off.... There is no such category as a "Best Of Prince". Who can ever judge one's art and say what is best and what is not -- If we were to use that way of thinking, then shouldn't we say every song Prince ever released should be noted as Best material?.

    However,.... if the word is true that Prince is going to release a re-recorded collection of career material - Call it what you will, but I will be the first in line to buy it. I would love to hear re-recorded jazz renditions of "Lady Cab Driver", "Condition of the Heart" and/or even a rock version of "Life Can B So Nice"

    Prince --- Just Let Me Know if the Rumors are Really True!!!

    CJG - Frankfort, Illinois

    They picked (3) photos from parade, 2 from graffiti bridge, 2 from batman, and one from 1999 with none from Purple Rain. I'm not sure what to make of it. It almost looks designed to not be interesting and the song list contains no new songs. Prince, are they allowed to do this under some old contract? I of course will not buy it because you told us not to. I have to realize now that a complete album collection is one that you put out, not a company. I wish you could have topped it. One big question: Is this the end of it - Is this the end of WB putting out your stuff? Did they do this because you threatened to remaster or go on tour. My advice is to ***Quit*** saying publicly what your plans are as for as remastering , etc. Keep them in the dark. And take the focus of you, and begin to support a song guild similar to the writers guild. Maybe WB will start to leave you alone. The most important thing is that you are happy with your career and your music. Don t worry about W B anymore.

    Richard Collins
    Birmingham, Alabama

    I already have all of this music. I would rather support Prince and wait for new recordings or remixes of previously released music....produced, arranged and recorded (not to mention OWNED) by the Artist himself. Thanks, but no thanks Time Warner.

    NPGMC ...

    In all honesty, Warner Bros can do better artistically if they were going to promote Prince's back-catalog one more time. Didn't they do that back in 1993? Although The Hits package (separate discs of the 3-cd set) was a very nice way of giving Prince a nice tribute, but why now? What's the point? Practically all of the freaks that dig Prince and his funk and the casual listeners have The Hits package already. ...

    Four pix from 1989 and 1990, three pix from Parade and one pic from Purple Rain does a body of work not make. It just goes to show you that the WB has more things on their hands nowadays. Heck, they must all be fretting over the closure of all the Warner Bros Studio Stores around the world. ...

    It ain't like it used to be. And it also shows, with those nine pix of "dated" Prince, that Prince is "dated" material. Can't wait for the reborn Prince to usher in some new funk. Prince is ever evolving and ever maturing and taking us funky folk for a trip we will not soon forget. ...

    What did Prince say? This is not music .. .this is a trip. ...

    Peace and b wild -
    Timmy :-D

    I can sum up WB's decision in one word: GREED.

    True FAMS won't even bother with this one. We all know the here and now is where it's at. Of course FANS will run out and buy this CD--those who are still living in the past and refuse to see that Prince has moved on to bigger, better and brighter.

    Don't worry my brother--we gotcha back and the real chicken grease! Besides, WB's decision to release this pointless compilation is just another Sign O' The Times.

    Luv,
    Allison

    Who's this aimed at? Who will buy? Only the unenlightened. Doesn't make sense with the title anyway. You can't have a very best, only a best. That's like saying that you have a very rip-off. Oh hang on - you have. Bring on the Rainbow Children (I suppose that everyone will use that phrase).

    ReHabibi

    It shows us 2 continue with the npgmusic club. WB wants more money from the big name in music: Prince. It is stupid en wrong that Prince had no influence in releasing this cd. Maybe Prince can look it from the positive way: more en more new fans can enjoy his music by buying this cd...

    Maurits van Rijswijk, The Netherlands

    This is just outrageous. Why is Time-Warner trying to make money off of an artist that no longer has a CONtract with them. They should have more respect for Prince because without him Time-Warner wouldn't be the powerhouse it is today. I am in no way even going to consider buying this CD, besides I already own all of the original albums. When is Warner going just going to give up and give Prince back his masters?

    Beran

    "Peace and B Wild"

    I didn't know it was out but it doesn't matter I won't support a company that doesn't support it's Artist or former Artist, besides I can make a better best of CD myself so it's not something I would buy anyway and if I were going to buy it I would buy it from Prince, that way I'm sure he'll get the money...I mean it's his music he should be paid for it.

    PEACE & PROFITS

    DaddyRedd

    I see no point in purchasing it. I believe that most members of the NPGMC already have all the songs on this compilation in their collection. I'm looking forward to purchasing Prince's rerecorded package mentioned in the NPG Ahdio show. However if WB were to re-release out of print CD's from the Paisley Park catalog such as Jill Jones or Madhouse, I and many others would find it difficult not to buy them (considering what those CD's go for at sites like eBay). The only way I see Prince having any control of that situation is to license the music from WB and release them on NPG Records! I don't believe any artist should have to that extreme to control their music, but it is a way to regain some control. How many fams would jump at the opportunity to purchase the entire Madhouse collection from NPG Records?

    FunkyMoon

    I really don't see the point of another greatest hits CD. I think one person should buy it and sell copies and send all cash made to the man that made the music. CDs r cheap - music is priceless

    Carl
    Savannah, GA

    I'm shocked, I did not know of it. Well, words really aren't warranted here because we all know 'what time it is'. Shame on those at Warner Brothers who are hiding behind their white sheets, talk about greedy. But I do have one question though, doesn't Prince STILL owe them 2 more CDs 'From The Vault'? Warners like all of the other companies are just greedy, and working for a Law Firm as myself, it is a moot point to try to sue them as was suggested in the site. Warners was the 'Bread Winner' for Prince for many years, and they 'own' the Masters, hence the reason why I personally am fearful of seeking a label for my solo piano works, pretty scary.

    Lloyd E. Scott
    Oakland, CA

    Peace 2 All - And First 2 Prince!

    And what about the new Warner Best Of. I don't care about this kind of stuff,Warner Releases it only 4 money>we want 2 see only release the TRUTH by Prince. My best wish is 2 see release "The Rainbow children" in record stores!!

    Purple Love 2 All
    stephan.

    As far as I'm concerned, wb have no idea of what's gonna happen and when it's gonna happen and so don't we. Let the Banished Ones remain Banished Ones. The time has arrived for hearing The Seventh Trumpet - a word to The Wise One is enough .

    Markos.

    Pick the best Hit N Run show(s) and release it as a live CD set. You've got all the hits re-recorded already, just in live format. I'd buy it in a heartbeat!

    Sterling Seals

    - I won't buy a copy; I own all those songs already
    - The artwork is very lame.
    - I can understand Prince not wanting this CD to be released
    - WB wants some fast easy money of the music they control.
    - A one-disc collection might sell more than the 3-CD "Hits/B-Sides" set

    What does it mean when it's posted that Prince makes "virtually" no money from the sales of this disc? I would think Prince would indeed see some cash from this. WB owns the master tapes, but do they also get the songwriting royalties?

    Is this about how large Prince's cut is? Is the contract with WB is a typical absurd deal where the artist gets an embarrassingly small percentage of the retail price of a CD?

    I like that artists such as Prince, Courtney Love, and Ani DiFranco are helping expose major label contracts for what they are.

    Somewhere inside Warner Bros....
    Suit 1: "Say, how can we make some more money today?"
    Suit 2: "I dont know. Put out a new album?"
    Suit 1: "Sounds good. What have we got?"
    Suit 2: "Well, we still own all of Prince's old music...."
    Suit 1: "Hmmm...I like it....he makes good stuff. We'll call it 'The Very Best of Prince'."
    Suit 2: "Uh...didnt we already do that?"
    Suit 1: "No, no...that was "The Hits/B-Sides"...this is different. See, look at the title again."
    Suit 2: "Oh. Should I use the same songs?"
    Suit 1: "Of course! I havent heard of any of that other stuff anyway. We'll make millions!"
    Suit 2: "Why should we settle for millions when we can make......billions?" (Puts pinky finger up to mouth)
    Suit 1: "Just make it happen!!"
    Suit 2: "Won't his fans realize they already have this?"
    Suit 1: "No, people aren't as smart as you or I. They'll buy anything we put in front of them."
    Evil laughter erupts.....

    i think its sad that warner bros r still living in the past ,its very noticeable that warner bros need prince at this present moment of life more than `prince needs them, princes truth of his creation of art, has spoke its justice, warner bros need to cut their strings or the truth has been said ,its not the love of his creation of music but the money they still wish to make from his name, very sad ,prince is smiling now,cuz his love is creation of art, not greed, truth is now ,wayne brooks from london

    As was the case when Suge Knight dropped (stole the name for first) Chronic 2000, attempting to confuse and take advantage of the people and the artist. Warner Brothers is doing the same. The general population does not realize that Prince is no longer a WB artist. They will buy the record because it is a "Prince" album.
    I have been in the business for quite a while and know that I, being a strong Prince supporter for years would have done the same (bought the album) not knowing. Of course this is a mockery of art. There is no way to stop the album from lining the pockets of AOL, er ah, Time, uh, Warner, uh TNT, TBS, Atlanta Hawks....oh whatever....
    The album will be a platinum seller and my thought is that the majority of that money needs to be donated to someone less fortunate (the majority of the planet collectively is less fortunate than the media GODZILLA, AOL/TIME WARNER).
    Prince should, like Dre, drop the baddest album on the planet and leak to the public (like Dre) that the "real album" will be out in stores shortly thereafter.
    I think that Warner has made more than enough money on Prince's back and it is time for them to continue to concentrate on taking advantage of Madonna's. Those that want to continue slaving, keep on pickin' that cotton, word to Warner, let the free man be.

    Eric Skai Hawke
    Oklahoma

    Why bother with buying it? What was the Hits I & II/B- sides for? Sound like opportunistic greed to me. I know I'm not buying it. I'm so ready for The Rainbow Children.

    However, what about NPG Records Releasing a limited edition DVD box set of Concerts One show or a collection of best segment from each tour? Every tour form Prince's first tour to the Prince: A Celebration tour market it as a box Set and individual shows.

    The world is waiting for that!

    Can I Help put that together!?!?!?!?! That would be a slice of heaven on earth for me.......... O yeah much to love NPGMC, NPG Record and Prince and his whole organization you guys are revolutionizing the music industry. I've seen the future and it is NPG Records.
    Love Is the only way
    CJ

    Mmmmm what is the point? We all already have the majority on the 1st hits and hey we even have the art work from the cover. It's not even worth somebody buying it and burning it for everyone else. What a joke do they think they are going to make money out of it? The only sad thing is the media will reflect its sales on Princes popularity, when we wont be buying it because we respect Prince and we don't want to fund anymore slavery.

    Maybe poor sales will encourage WB to give the masters back to Prince, I hope so if its the only good thing that comes out of it and Warner brother realize that princes fans aren't interested in buying from them and wont fund their bank balances they might just return what isn't theirs.

    Mayte319
    ps When are u coming to the UK?

    well...i can say i think having a best-of cd is always nice for those wanting a first taste of someone's music. I own many myself and they are usually a starting point for more to come. However I dont think its cool that prince don't get paid much for the songs...but honestly will that stop people from checking it out? I doubt it. What it comes down to is most people love the music and thats what they love...they dont think much about the politics behind the industry that packages it...they have lives to worry about :) Will I buy it? probably not...I own all the cds and can make my own (better) mix cd.What I wanna know...what happened to the Symbol album tracks? No "7"? If its a hits album wasnt that one of the biggest hits on the charts? Hmmmm. Curious how Money Dont Matter 2Nite is on it...talk about contradiction and not getting the point :)
    Robert Goodman

    Ignorance is bliss...I learned my lesson when I purchased The Vault, loved it, played it daily for weeks then a year + later, after being NPGMusic Club immersed, returned to the discography section and discovered my faux pas...Ooops. Sorry. The only positive thing I could suggest is after the Hit and Run Tour all of the fresh crop of Baby Prince Fams will want these songs on a CD so they are gonna buy it and increase their knowledge. The fortunate few of us who were given the pleasure of hearing The Rainbow Children and received the beautiful book are poring over and reading our notes written down during that experience. "...music of instrumental change...True Love...Everlasting now...knew who to trust...willin' to do the work...ah ah Hendrix...saints fall down-get up!...the finishing touches are the keenest...ovarian soul sensuality...KaBoomba Boom!...How will I know the light from the night, shape shifting together, it'll be all right..." So much reassurance that Prince is alive and, well, unequaled in excellence, always a mile ahead of the rest of the pack. Godspeed and Thanks for all of it, Peace in this Season of Joy,MayaMiara

    I love all of Prince's music. I have over 80 of his cd's. I did not buy this new "best of" cd. There is no new music. I have everything on it already. Since Prince will get no proceeds from this sale, I have no interest. I do think artists should have rights to their own music. They shouldn't have to fight for it. The way Prince releases his music now (on his web site) is the best way. I recently bought a cd writer and enjoy him anywhere, anytime. The more I download and experience, the hungrier I get for more new music. Keep it coming!!!!!!!!!
    Peace, Connie

    If itz not blessed by prince himself, eye would never waist my money on it.

    Tre
    Clarkdale, GA

    How many Warner Brothers' compilation albums do we need? I am certainly not going to buy it. It strikes me that some people want to hold on to the past. I am more interested in the future. People need to learn that money should not make the world go around before it is to late.

    Anne-Marie
    (U.K)

    I think Prince should use the publicity to his advantage and release something on his own. He could also get even more media attention by announcing that whatever profit that he receives from the Warner Bros. cd will be given to a charity, or, if one exists, some sort of organization that supports individual recording artists rights.
    I think many people don't realize that it is not about the money to Prince. He does not want more money from Warner Bros., only the rights to his "Masters". Which, unfortunately, they will not willingly release as long as they are going to make money from them. I don't agree with it, but it is business.
    If you are a true fan of Prince and his music, then you WILL NOT buy this cd. You are only making it harder for him to regain control of his "Masters" by profiting Warner Bros. - Wendy Williams

    Hello,
    I hate the idea that they can do this without the fact that the artist in this case Prince, doesn't even like this. And also not get paid for this, they have 2 respect that this is his music!!!! And because they "own" it, it doesn't mean they could do anything with it...... why its always about the money??? I mean 4 me its just they don't have any kind of respect for the music, if Prince wanted this he does it by himself!!! Give him back his songs Warner, if that happens maybe then u can say that u do a nice job. But now........... i hope nobody will buy it!!! Understand, just 4 Warner. Cause the music is still great, but that is needles 2 say.......
    Peace & be wild.........
    a friend.........

    what warner is doing is wrong!!! i have all the prince stuff but i will not buy that stuff warner has out now!!!! peace! eric99

    The very best of Prince...According to whom? Definitely not according to Prince or even his fams. Prince is not under contract with WB. So this release would then make WB bootleggers because Prince does not authorize its release. Why is everybody trying to sell what is already sold? Wb should stop wasting time releasing these types of CDs and release "Under the Cherry Moon", Graffiti Bridge" and "Prince & the Revolution Live" on DVD. give us something we don't have. Another idea is for WB to release the 12" singles on CD since they won't give Prince back his masters so he can do it himself. Greatest hits packages are misleading. The should be called greatest singles. all songs on them we released as singles. Some non singles may be hits too. What will happen next...? A Prince compilation CD sold on TV for $19.99 (no pun intended). Just call 1-800-2ND-COPY.

    Well it's just another way of making money for Warner Brothers. That's their vision on MUSIC. Let them do what they think they should do. You, Prince know better, and so do we as MUSICLOVERS. I can imagine it must be a frustrating situation but don't let it ruin your musicminded state of mind. You are on such a different level, just keep on doing what your doing. Believe me: so many people admire your attitude, and because of that attitude your music comes out so differently. You've got another "Greatest Hits" package right in your hands, ready to get released. Incredible songs like:
    - S&M Groove !!!
    - VanGough
    - Sex Me Sex Me Not !!!
    - Supercute !!!
    - Y Should Eye Do That When Eye Can Do This !!!
    - Props N' Pounds !!
    - The Daisy Chain !!!
    - U make my Sun Shine !!!!
    - Northside

    Well do I need to go on ??
    What you need 2 do is:
    - Ignore the whole Warner "thing" and just release "The Rainbow Children".
    - Release an album with some "old" material but with the PRINCE and NPG sound of today. WE ARE SO CURIOUS WHAT THAT WOULD SOUND LIKE !!! Who needs the "OLD" stuff anyway ?

    I would like to end with this:

    Just keep on diving into your mind and soul to let your music come out as creative as it can be.

    YOU ARE THE ONE WHO'S GROWING, THEY ( Warner ) ARE JUST STANDING STILL.

    A guy who needs your music/lyrics to grow.

    i won't buy it.I thought it was gonna be some new jams but after researching it on the net,I discovered THE TRUTH.Besides, I already have all of those compositions.Another thing,didn't they release a "best of" album already with the same stuff? Maybe they should rename it"Prince,Reslaved".

    Best of? and they only fit it on 1 cd. hmmmmm.......... Well, Time Warner is like this old system of things, if u ignore it long enough and Warn others that there is a better system on the verge of Dawn, it will likely go they way of the 80's.

    Agape'
    clint b.

    However
    ONE DAY I would LOVE 4 classics like SIGN O the TIMES and LOVESEXY 2 be remasterd - that would be heaven!!

    NOW is the chance for PRINCE 2 RELEASE his own HITS aka PRINCE - A CELEBRATION

    give the record buying public a choice

    4 PRINCE 2 create a *NEW MASTER* instead of re-recording the song he can use alternate takes (like the beatles anthology)

    COMPUTER BLUE LONG VERSION - for example (the ultimate) Beautiful ones and PURple rain with the extra verse THE EXTENDED version of "Kiss" played at last years celebration

    this would SELL

    dj7

    Does it seem strange to anyone else Warner keeps releasing this stuff immediately before Prince has a new joint coming out? Obviously they are being vindictive and actively causing confusion on the market place to keep other artists in their cages. I think P needs to call JC (as in Johnny Cochran).

    Joe Colen

    Oh please the very best of Prince. If you were to actually put something out that had the "very best" it would have to be a 10 CD set (or more) Warner Bros. doesn't know what's "very best" if they did they would still have Prince.

    How can WB expect to put the very best of Prince on just one cd anyway. Even with "The Hits/The B-Sides", I thought of many great songs Prince did that weren't even on that. And there are a great many more at the NPGMC and some that are still unreleased.
    To get the best also depends on your taste. What I consider the best, even Prince might disagree. That is why I buy everything that comes out, cuz u never know what's in the basket. To each his own, WB is just in it for the cash flow.
    ericthewker

    Im sorry but if there was some new songs on it i would buy it. Since there arent any. I aint buying jack!!!! Very happy with the NPGMC premium trax. So far we got about 2 disks worth of funk in 6 months. That rocks!!!!! Not to mention videos and presales on concert tickets. Oh yeah not to forget backstage access at the Oakland show. Long live NPG!!! Love life! Love God! LoveSexy!!!

    Greg
    Sacramento CA

    Wb,s best? Why is it the best? because of the creator who created the music..... Prince worked really hard gave warner his best 4 many years.... Record C are looking out 4 #1, it is a money game 2 them..... Prince i hope other artist will learn from ur experience,& can put out there music in a more positive way. Prince i support U 4-ever Always, I would only buy this cd if U -" THE CREATOR " Made all of the money U so well deserve....... I Love U My Brother God Bless U......Lv Shelly

    Can prince hire a top lawyer to help him find a loop hole, somewhere, somehow, to prevent WB from this release? It would be a major victory... especially since he is free from their contract.

    One way to reach out to the public would be to do a quick video clip from prince himself stating his viewpoint. This clip should be available anywhere the cd is promoted on the web... that way he can reach beyond the npgmusic club... to the vulnerable new fams out there.

    The NEW cd looks OLD and dated... WB continues to represent prince of the past and gives an ILLusion to potential new fams that this is what prince is all about. We know how much he has evolved and it is a shame that the general public is so far behind.

    muchluv2prince
    mary

    I'm just now responding to the question about Time Warner releasing The Very Best of Prince CD because I had such a wide range of reactions. First, I felt like "how dare TW?!", then "is it legal?", then "how much can they make?", then "how much can Prince make", then "I thought Prince got his masters back", then I realized how very little I know about the details of the negotiations of his split with Warner Bros. How can I really form an opinion? All I know for sure is that Prince is unhappy about the release and feels exploited. I realized at that point I had a headache because I was concerning myself so much with how he felt. I made a conscious decision to put distance between myself and this subject. This is mainly because last year I stopped buying bootlegs, purchased premium membership to the music club, own every Prince cd officially released on any label, have been to every concert in my area in the past two years, flew threw a terrible rainstorm to get to Paisley Park for the Celebration this year, bought enough souvenirs for three people, caught flu twice standing outside in the cold trying to get into a party or concert, and forced myself not to complain about any of these things for sheer love of Prince. I've done all I can do. I hope Prince realizes that he must keep facing forward and making the most of where he is now instead of looking back at what could have been had the world been a utopia of givers not takers. Listen to "Bag Lady" by Erykah Badu or "Count Your Blessings" by Ashford & Simpson or "Gettin' It" by Too Short. Whatever it takes to get past this. What he should have done and I hope will do next time is believe and pray that God is working it out right now. Put your faith to practice, Prince. God is blessing you through it right now.

    Listen
    The BEST DEFENSE is a string OFFENSE

    RELEASE - prince "A CELEBRATION" or "THE RAINBOW CHILDREN" or better yet BOTH!!!!

    GIVE the people some *new* music homegrown and not from *the plantation*

    I love 2 Spend MY money ON PRINCE NOT AOL/TIME WARNER - but don't front GIVE us a CAUSE 2 back -

    RELEASE yo VERSION!

    - MB

    DON'T BUY THIS ALBUM!!!

    I wholeheartedly support Prince's quest to regain ownership of his master recordings. Without ownership, he has no say whatsoever in how his art is used or abused. WB could release this album with cover art of a baby being sliced open with a knife and a title like "Mothers kill your babies for the devil!" and Prince could do nothing about it. They could licence the use of Little Red Corvette to Chevrolet for a TV commercial. All they owe Prince is whatever (relatively) small royalty previously negotiated in his contract.

    Prince isn't fighting for a couple of more bucks per CD sold. He's fighting for the right to have a say in how his art is used. Yes, Prince signed the contracts with WB which gave them the ownership they enjoy today. Obviously, they consider these masters to be an asset of some value. To regain ownership of his masters, Prince will eventually have to compensate WB for them. Reportedly, he has made some previous offer for them which was refused by WB. By supporting this album of re-releases, you are contributing to WB's perception of their value, thus making it that much more difficult for Prince to regain ownership.

    So, sum it up: why not pop in the CD's you already own with these "hits" and listen to them. Then take the $16 you might spend on this "new" album and buy yourself two months' worth of NPGMC and get some *real* new music. And in the process, support the efforts of an artist whose art you enjoy and appreciate.

    Are we really surprised? Prince was the best artist to ever come out of Warner Brothers..okay, I'm a Larry Graham fan,too. But get real, if this was Napster they would be pulling the plug. But of course, this is a record company, so I guess they feel it's okay to screw over the artist, creator, and etc. How about these three words, "DON'T BUY IT!!!" For me, as a Prince fan, that's the best support that I can give him!

    Jaye "aka" Purple Wolf

    I think that its wrong of Warner Bros. 2 do that 2 prince. I don't think that they should be selling Prince's work nemore. Especially when they already made a hits 1 and 2...and now r making "Best of " cd which has the same songs as on hits 1 & 2 oh plus one song..."Money don't matter 2night." They are just looking for ways 2 make $. I don't approve.

    ANdrea G.

    It is obvious that Time Warner is experiencing a slump in finding talented people to represent their company. This can be seen in their ill fated attempt to reproduce an album that already exist on the market. Prince has worked very hard for many years to accomplish what he has and he should receive all that comes with that success. Prince, keep on doing what you have been doing. U R doing something right because U have so many people who love U so dearly and who will support U no matter what.

    Sincerely,
    Nat

    I love all of Prince's music. I think that he should get all the royalties from them because he wrote most of them. I also believe that he is very talented. I like you make my sun shine a lot it cheers me up when i am having a bad day
    Angie

    I hope it sells itself right off the stands!! Then WB can see what it feels like to be trapped... they can only sell his OLD greatest hits so many times; As timeless as they are, They'll be crying when the next generation of his greatest hits comes out and they can't touch them!! They know he was great, and they will profit, but they have no idea how great he can be, and when all becomes clear..... welcome, welcome to the dawn!! I'd love to see him produce an album that shows everyone what only us followers can see, how awesome yet versatile the man is. His words melt us, I'd like to see him produce a song via electric guitar that makes Metalica cry, no words, just fearsome strings... then another passionate, hit-home love song, cuz we just can't get enough, then another hip-hop chart topper then some spiritual insight stuff.... now thats the new man, with the new greatest hits... warner bros. would pee their pants, look at each other and say... "damn... could he always do that??"
    I won't purchase WB's album... It angers me that they misrepresent who he is now with who he was then. So, just for people like me... If you do produce one, could you title the wordless, electrical guitar, speaker-rippin metal song..."Anger"? For if only anger was as beautiful as your music, the world would be filled with beautiful music!!

    The creator needs to have the final say in their creation. Man-made contracts do not change that truth. We will be singing that for years and years. Do the right thing and give all creators control over their creation. You know it's how it should be, you know it.

    well, n my opinion the bottom-line is this: time warner sux and their lame excuse 4 a "best of" cd is just one more attempt to make money. greed is alive and well in 2001! besides, y buy this cd? most people already have "the hits/b-sides", and like many others have mentioned here, if u are a true prince fam, then u will already have most/all of his cds, with songs that may not make it onto a "best of" cd. my personal faves being "goodbye", "adore", and "manowar". but i digress. i will not be buying this cd. enough said.

    but, i AM itching for some new prince material . . .and anxiously awaiting anything that prince may release on his own..... :) peace.

    I didn't even know they released a best of CD. What's the point??? We all have the joints we need from the man GOD sent 2 us all 4 musical spirituality.

    facedown7

    I think this new "best of" is stupid, uncalled for, and an obvious ploy to milk more money out of (and from) Prince. The only people who would buy this album, ALREADY HAVE IT .
    If WB had any iota of creativity, this would have been an album of extended 12 inch versions, or lesser known songs. I have bought anything with Prince's music for as long as I can remember, but I think I'm gonna let this one pass. Hopefully this will light a fire under the royal booty to get a new album out. I mean, we haven't had to go without an album since 1983. THE FAMS ARE STARVING MY BROTHA!!! FEED US!!! FEEEEEEDDDDDD UUUUUSSSSSSS!!!!!!!

    I think WB has a lot of guts doing this.....they definitely have the greed. Just another ploy to make more money. I REFUSE to buy this release. Any real Prince Fam already has all of this music and then some. They obviously have no respect for his musical genius. Needless to say I have no respect of a company like WB!!!!! You'll always be my #1 Prince! Amy Marie from Milwaukee

    warner bros. has just sunk 2 its lowest level ever. PRINCE gave that company nothing put success. why must they SLAVE a brother 4 so long. i can't wait 4 "the RAINBOW CHILDREN" 2 be set FREE. the fams at the celebration have said that its his best album in years. it will soon FALL and warner's will know the real TRUTH.

    who wants a recycled greatest hits package when P isn't seeing a dime from this??

    8 years later and PRINCE is still being held in a prison!!!!! RELEASE HIM NOW!!!!!!!

    an artist has a right 2 be free. free with no constraints 2 limit one's art.

    "THE RAINBOW CHILDREN" will pound its way in2 our ears shortly.

    i want justice, not injustice!!!!

    think i don't!

    First of all, there is no way that you can release a "Best of" CD by Prince. You would never satisfy his "friends" appetite. He has how many albums? You would literally have to take one single from each album and that isn't going to satisfy the masses. Even if doing a boxed set, it would have to be a minimum of 5 CD's and that still would be an injustice. I still find it deplorable that an artist can PRODUCE, ARRANGE, COMPOSE, SING, ETC., as Prince has done since FOR YOU and still someone else owns it. How is that possible? If I created a painting, wouldn't it be my painting. One day every artist will peddle their own music and cut out the middle man.

    Warners obviously saw the success of the rehashed Beatles albums like "1" and the "anthologies" (which made the Beatles the biggest moneymaking entertainers thirty years after they broke up!) and made an attempt at doing the same with Prince.
    Since Michael Jackson collects the money from Beatles songs, who should collect for Prince's, Brittany Spears?
    andyman

    I had the feelin dat the fat cats had made this compilation, not Prince, because for 1 his most successful song is not on it, (Maybe cuz he owns the rights to it?) 'The Most Beautiful Girl In The World' UK and USA number 1s. Without dat song it is not THE BEST OF PRINCE! plus 'My Name Is Prince', an excellent song and the huge hit 'Gold', should be on it. Sambluedolphin

    With much respect going 2 Prince, U can't have the best of Prince's work in just one or 2 cd's. Although, Warner Bros. won't say it, but they know it. As long as they own his master recordings, it looks like they r going 2 keep releasing anything they can, just because they can. As a result of that they get the money that in all reality should be going 2 PRINCE, the man who made the music. It seems as though it's all about the money with Time Warner. Is "Money Don't Matter 2 Night" on the track list? Hmm...

    If Prince decides 2 release his own version of a "Best of" cd, I'd support him, not Time Warner. I'm sure he'd have a hard time choosing what 2 include on it though. In the mean time, I have all of his released work, and in receiving the monthly funk, I'm getting the best.

    Much Love & Respect...

    Peace,
    Dorothy

    I feel its just a sad attempt to make money with what is in my opinion just a implacable backlash of hard feelings. There's many ways that we could all respond to this one of them being no response at all. And actions speak louder than words.

    Much Love,
    Honey<3
    St. Louis, MO

    U no, Warner's is Mad b-cuz Prince can Bring the Noise, he develop & succeeded n creating his website. He get profits w/out the middleman, us as Fams reap the rewards bcuz it coming directly from the Source...Prince-

    Prince & The NPG will b Paid 4 doing the Work, Warner's will always try a stunt, but the way the NPG Music club is going, Prince has nothing 2 fear, Cuz GOD is Near!

    Peace
    Kathy Jay from Philly
    Much Luv

    Now why on Earth would i want that when i have more prince recording than were released and a CD burning program....I make my own Best of CD's thankyou very much....Warner can eat worms..............

    Best of CD's are for companies to try and capitalize over and over for work that's already been WORKED!!! Prince as a consummate artist is so far removed from those works. The compilation does not CON-stitute the best of anything. Only true listeners understand this. As a listeners and follower from the age of 10 now 33, I to am removed from those songs. Good as they are, certainly not the best. WB wants folks to believe it's the best. That's their MATRIX... But they have nothing else to offer. I believe the label is bored, they have no exciting artist on their "PAYROLL" and fiscal year is approaching. "Somebody selling 12 CD's 4 a $1.00." Can you say "YEAR-END-QUOTA". Somebody wants a raise.......Time-Warner..Get yo hands out my pockets....We have nothing 4U...HAD U. Funkmaster

    I would not buy it, I have all the originals, and anything now that doesn't come from the NPG or Paisley Park is to me stolen music. WB should stop trying to ride on Prince's coat tails, his creative juices and genius. So sorry that they don't have any real money makers in their corral. Let the man alone so he can make the real FUNKY MUSIC we all love.
    Peace,
    Sunseri

    I think it's a shame that someone other than the person who made the music can profit from the music. That's like sell something that you stole and it be legal. That doesn't sound right or fair.

    You know this greatest hits thing, well yeah these are some great songs by Prince. But it ends with Diamonds and Pearls. Hello?? Gold Experience! If I'm not mistaken "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World" was quiet a hit on the Warner label.On a more personal note. Same material, nothing new. Warner is running low on steam, musically and spiritually. I think I already bought a greatest hits album thankyou very much.

    Much love to the future,
    Ken Gulick

    Well, first of all....it is OF COURSE a magnificent album, we all agree, I think. But I also think it is the wrong moment to release this album while Prince is considering the release of the Rainbow Children. So I'm afraid that Prince is now thinking of waiting to release the Children......

    This is yet another example of the machine trying 2 get a piece of the purple pie!

    I would urge friends not 2 buy it, as the owner should have a say (not 2 mention a cut) of the art he has created.

    The Very Best Of PRINCE:
    as far as we know There is no such thing as the best of prince, its all the best,and he is always the best at every show. Because that is the kind of musician he is. WB doesnt listen to my man on the daily and then go hey i love this guy we need to make a great mix cd of his stuff. they are parasites feeding off of the beautiful creations of Prince and the NPG..............................Ok eye will not by the wb cd, and that means eye need to see the new"Rainbow Children" real soon. C'mon what r u waiting for. U know all the Fams R waiting. p.s. regardless of how wrong it is for this Best of CD to b put out, eye have to say that, those who r not listening to Prince yet might buy the cd and start getting all his new stuff too, and whats wrong with more fams. thanx 4 asking..............NJP

    Since all of the songs are from previously released albums that get played too much on the radio already, this would only benefit the radio stations.

    And, since Prince gets no $ from this. WHAT'S THE POINT of buying it????

    Something only the tourists will buy that's for sure!!!!!

    Gail Combs

    At some point in time, every artist is separated from the work he or she creates, just like parents from their children. Sometime far in the future there will be no Prince to receive royalties for the work he created, though the work will remain. It is a shame that Warner Brothers continues to disrespect the maker of these songs in order to profit from them, but there will always be such people. However, knowing how my own life has been changed by being exposed to Prince's vibe, I cannot see a rerelease of these songs as entirely bad. Somewhere out there is a young kid just beginning to get into the music scene, and they are going to buy this CD that Prince will get very little money for, and they will be transformed-- regardless of what direction the money flows. Mad props and monies to Prince, he absolutely deserves it all, and without question artists should own their masters. But let us say that Warner Brothers are the Thieves in the Temple. Some of the greatest pieces of art have survived longer through history in the hands of thieves than they would have in the best of environments. Undoubtedly artists should be "paid for the work they have done", and so the fight must continue-- but fate has its reasons, and at the source of it all, I think, Prince's songs have nothing to do with material things.

    its not right at all for warner brothers to release it

    Prince probably signed a contract allowing them to do this many years ago so I'm not sure if he has anything to say about it, but I think they should have consulted him anyway. It makes corporations look bad, like they only give you the right to Produce, arrange, compose, etc, etc. as long as they think you're under their control. But as soon as you leave, they just exploit whatever remains and treat your music like it was K-Tells best of glam metal. On the plus side, it might make all new artists be more cautious when signing contracts. In our new world's constant desire to update everything and do the same exact thing again but make it current, we end up putting out useless junk. I'm worried that this disc might cause Warner Bros. to discontinue the 2 "Hits" CDs from 1993 which also had different tracks added and not reprint "The Hits/B-sides" 3 CD set which is such a great resource for most of his b-sides. If WB really wanted to do us a favor, they should put out a complete "12 remix and extended versions album, instead of selling back to us what we already own. But companies have been used to putting out too many greatest hits compilations for quite a while and it makes being a completist a lot less fun. I also wonder whether it's not very cost effective of them to do this, as having too many hits compilations out there confuses the buyer. They should just market one collection and people will have no trouble finding it.

    Dear Npgmusicclub,
    simply put, Warner Brothers should relinquish the rights to Prince`s back catalogue because they don`t know what to do with it.
    Many other re-packages would have been welcomed by Prince fams and casual buyers alike. A complete videos DVD would have gone down a treat, as would a compilation of some of the longer versions of the singles. Instead we get a pointless abridged "Hits" compilation, when worldwide the 3cd version is sitting in bargain bins at two thirds to half the retail price of "the very best of Prince."
    In short if they manage to sell one copy it is a triumph of marketing over common sense.
    Best Wishes,
    Andrew

    Time Warner you are not a KING!!

    Time Warner you are not a PRINCE!!

    Time Warner you do not deserve 2 PROFIT from the music because U are not PRINCE ROGERS NELSON!!

    Now run and tell your mama bout' that!!

    While you're at it tell your pop about this---MONEY is the ROOT of all EVIL!!

    SLAVE vs. MASTER? or THE MASTERS vs. MONEY?

    U see GREEN, and we Say WHAT'S THAT FUNKY SMELL?

    G is 4 Get Your House In Order Time Warner
    R is 4 Rainbow Children-Time Warner will NEVER own
    E is 4 Eternity 2 right your wrong Time Warner
    E is 4 Elementary my dear Prince( 1+1+1=3) :)
    D is 4 Don't make me pimp slap U Time Warner

    Time Warner you're selling what's already been sold. I hope Prince's mission to help bring awareness to how record companies unfairly treat singers/musicians with CONtracts one day prevails. Education and exposure of this process is the key.

    If people support new and upcoming artists that are trying to make it on their own, (not submitting to a record company CONtract)those artists will never have to give up their kingdom. Prince, a man with insight, intelligence, and strength once said that.

    It's time to support Prince, The Funky Baldheads, and other musicians on the rise that won't team up with a record industry MASTER. Buy their cds' and join the NPG Music Club.

    Debbie Oberacker

    Warner is just trying 2 make money out of someone they do no longer have under contract. It is sick that they CAN do this, because they did not create this music in the first place, so in spite of what the contracts say, it's not theirs and that is what normal people call "stealing". But it's Warner, so they think they can get away with anything ... The only way 2 hurt them a little bit is by NOT buying this album!

    Eric
    the Netherlands

    Everybody wantz 2 sell whatz already been sold

    - Peace , Lovearrow

    Sick of course. I have not been looking for the Best of Cd. Don't need it for I have everything else on it. The Hits Bsides was betta anyways.... Hope someday u get your CHILDREN Back! Let us know what we can do to help ya out in that goal. I would rather here the new stuff directly from u anyway. And it's not always the HITS I want to hear. The hidden treasures r on the original lps and EPs ...LOL, Michelle(vashtidmsr)

    I think it absolutely unfair. However it business. The music industry is full of corrupt heartless people all they care about is making money off a product..........which is all they see. The beauty is that because of the bullsh** he has been through he is now educated and can pass the wisdom on the us. It's up to us to listen and learn.

    Saturday, July 14, 2001
    I've got one example to give about why this goes beyond Prince VS. TimeWarner and then I'm gonna leave it alone. I received a letter in the mail today from an organization which shall remain nameless. They want to record my work on CD. The typical artist's response? "Great! I need to get my name out there." Then I thought about this "Very Best of Prince" situation, and it made me THINK about my own. I would have NO creative control as far as the music set to it and the person who would "cover" it, plus I nor any of the other artists on the compilation would reap one dime. THE COMPANY pockets ALL of the cash for this collective work. The artists get absolutely NOTHING. Unfortunately, with thoughts of the FUTURE, I have to decline. Two generations from now, I don't want someone picking up a recording of my work (particularly if it's something I'm not happy with) with the naivete of thinking it was something in which I had a creative hand in when they see my name trailing the copyright symbol. This is not about Prince "whining" about the past. It's about getting the message out to other artists to watch their back (or long-term FUTURE rather), while in the meantime encouraging people to challenge corporate practices that have been enslaving and pimping "the laborer" for too long. Thank You.
    Maggie

    You guys are doing a phenomenal job on this website, it's my favorite place to be thanks for your hard work it looks, and feels great!

    As far a WB's efforts to continue to profit off our beloved Prince, all I can say is that they can try but they will fail. We are loyal to Prince and if he says don't buy it we won't buy it. Even though they are not playing fair by putting those beautiful images of Prince on the cover, I plan to resist their lure. Prince is brave enough to blaze the trail and create a new way for artists to enrich their fans and I will support him in any and every way I can. I am so grateful for the work and the opportunity to see him profit directly from his work I'm just beaming and I'll be buying any and everything with NPG on it and absolutely nothing with WB on it. With the exception of Bugs of Daffy, I gotta have my duck :) I'm sooooooo Proud of Prince and so proud to be a Prince fan, these are glorious joyful times and I can't thank all of you who are making the music club work enough. Best Wishes!

    Love and let Love,
    April Welch, Chicago
    (girl with the Prince button hat)

    I have sat here and read every comment that everyone made concerning this. I feel, also, that it is sheer disrespect to Prince. As everyone stated, the songs they selected were good for the general public, but a true fam could definitely come up with a better selection not to mention more than ONE FREAKIN'CD!!!! I know Prince wants to know what everyone thinks about this and we have, as true fams, definitely let him know, but what would be the bomb is for true fams to take all these comments and send them to Warners and let THEM know how we feel and that we won't be supporting this project. It is most unfortunate that the general public, who are not die hards fams, don't know or care about the behind the scenes situation and will go and buy it. I heard a dj from a popular radio station in Atlanta, while giving her entertainment report, say she was definitely going to buy it. At the same time she was saying that Warners was just mad because Prince had changed his name. It seemed to me that she knew a little about what was going on but then said she would definitely go out and buy it (I guess you can say she is apart of the General Public). It would be nice though if all the fams did boycott the CD or Prince get on TV and tell the world how he feels about it around the time it is released. Writing it in here is like a family speaking in the privacy of their home. I say tell Warners and the world we are mad and don't appreciate them disrespecting Prince and his music like this. Aurora has spoken.

    Peace and B Wild

    Ms. Aurora Camille Victoria

    cant find a reason to purchase this. there are no new jams!!!!

    Prince, I agree with some of the other fams that you should fight fire with fire. Please release a compilation including your 12"/remix versions. How about the rare long versions of "Sexy Dancer", "Paisley Park", "God" and "Computer Blue"? Or even accompany this set with your rare videos like "Automatic" ,"Why U Wanna Treat Me So Bad" and "Sexuality". Now that's what I'm talking about!!!Apparently Warner hasn't released "Very Best of Prince" yet but I did read the track list.(amazon.com). All of the songs on this compilation appear on the previous compilation, except for two. Warner is still capitalizing on YOUR children, but you can hit them where it hurts!!

    Brian

    Ok so its warner bros. releasing the same old stuff again but in a different order and Prince aint getting much from it. BUT at least Prince is getting some money by doing nothing, and at least someone is releasing Prince music than fans can actually get their hands on. Where was Roadhouse Garden? High? Crystal Ball II? The Rainbow Children? New Masters? Please Prince give us something! I love u man but u gotta understand how hard it is 4 some fans 2 get ur music nowadays. I miss the days of O(+>. Heres hoping 4 the future.

    Well, it makes me want 2 puke ! I feel that prince should release The Rainbow Children and consign that cash in to the dumpster !! Please release it now......When is it going to be released ?

    I think it is quite silly for them to put out another Prince best of, sounds like the 1969 jimi Hendrix, greatest hits, like as though the chumps need to be kept at bay, but anyway, I am glad I found out that this is something that was not okayed by Prince because knowing myself with prince's music I would have bought it anyway...I know, I know I am a freak when it comes to buying my favorite artist's CD's I just love the music and that's what it should be all about, but UKNOWITSNOT!

    I would not buy it, I have all the originals, and anything now that doesn't come from the NPG or Paisley Park is to me stolen music. WB should stop trying to ride on Prince's coat tails, his creative juices and genius. So sorry that they don't have any real money makers in their corral. Let the man alone so he can make the real FUNKY MUSIC we all love.
    Peace,
    Sunseri

    What's up P? Don't worry about WB latest efforts, God will take care of them. God knows what's in their hearts and minds and they will have to pay for it when Judgment day comes. The only thing you should do now is just sit back and chill and pray about it. The money they make off of it is earthly possessions, not Heavenly possession.

    The love of money is the root of all evil. Money is not the root of all evil but the love of it is. It appears to us that they love money regarding the fact that there is already a greatest hits album that was released years ago.

    Eye luv u're Muzic & No1 can touch it, not even digitally master it, Not the way that U handle the controls:) as far as that cd goes, they r re-releasing u're musiz, it is getting a bit repetitious sort of speak...& 4 what...the $$$$$.

    Eye think that the Wicked Being,(meaning the WB aka TW) r Nsane, Envious & bit Evil, this may just b a test 2 c if Prince will respond 2 this release, since the NPGMUSICLUB is what's happening. They r nfluence by the devil 2 upset Prince's Community. WB downcast 2 the lowest level but like everything else, it 2 will come 2 pass. Prince, just let it roll off U're back, cuz it just 2 test U're Faith, n which U have ndeed:) Just ask 'ure guests, that njoyed u're Garden....it's a sign:)

    God is on Our-side

    Peace
    Pious-

    There is no such thing as the Best of Prince, maybe if he only released half a dozen albums, but that's not the case. You have to split up the best of Prince into genres. Best of Prince live, the Best of Prince Funk, the Best of Prince with others etc. But ultimately the best of Prince is not for me, I already have the best of Prince, because I'm part of the NPGMC and already own all his albums and then some.

    Just WB trying to steal from Prince again. It never ends. Anything 4 a $$ right? But n this case, all the fams know the difference, and won't b racing 2 the record store 2 buy what is not theirs to sell. The NPG will stand together and keep downloading the funk from the music club. Peace!Alyssa T.Virginia

    Hey!!
    I thought we weren't 'supposed' to buy this one.
    I didn't, haven't and won't.
    Let the money go to the one who makes the music.

    ~Erin

    I think that they don't have prince anymore so they r trying 2 put out his songs That they already put on a cd...who would put another cd out of the same songs as the Hits/b-sides..and who would buy it even wit out him.....I have no bad feelings 4 warner but r they thinking right ? I'm not paying my 18.99 4 that cd when it's already out.And i won't buy anything from warner because it's not prince's real stuff that he wants out...But thats why prince made the NPGMUSICCLUB so we could all b free....

    See u in the Purple Rain
    Sara
    Love

    I think this collection is for casual fans, and for WB to make some $. Plain & Simple. I, for one, am not going to buy it, since I already have all of Prince's albums, so therefore, have all these trax. It also seems incomplete, this is the very best of Prince? If you want the very best of Prince go buy his albums and join the NPGMC for his new stuff. This collection is sorely missing many of his "best" trax.

    Here is what I suggest, NPGMC should release the Rainbow Children for us Fams and leave the "Very Best of..." for the fans. I want some new, fresh, material not just a rehash of the same 'ol same 'ol.

    My 2Cents,
    Jack

    I became a Prince fam when I was thumbing thru CDs at my record store and ran in2 the 2 "greatest hits" albums. I didn't have any Prince at the time, so I went ahead and picked them up. Now I listen 2 Prince almost xclusively and realize that some of the best songs Prince has released will never b on any "greatest hits" record (aka Starfish & Coffee). The moral of the story is this. This newest compilation may increase the number of Prince fams, who, like myself, will come to realize how Prince has been CONed, and then join the NPG music club. Every cloud has a silver lining. Make the best of any bad situation U can't control & U will b free.

    Be Wild
    Erin

    I am also disgusted by this move. Other artists such as MoFo could be treated this way but Prince is regarded as one of the most influential musicians/performers/composers of this generation. He is an icon and well respected. Hs fans will support him 100%. R-E-S-P-E-C-T my friends. WB, you just don't bite the hand that FEEDS you.

    Bungle127
    Prince/NPG Supporter

    PSALMS 62:10-12

    Message 2 potential CONsumers: TRUST NOT IN OPPRESSION

    Time Warner is pretending 2 celebr8 Prince's career with this release, but every child on this CD is a slave. 2 purchase such a CD would b 2 achieve the xact opposite of what is b-ing CONveyed. As lovers of Freedom and Truth, members of the NPGMC will not b fooled in2 bcoming CONsumers of the l8est "Best Of" CD Time Warner has released.

    Message 2 Time Warner: AND BCOME NOT VAIN IN ROBBERY: IF RICHES NCREASE, SET NOT UR HEART UPON THEM. GOD HATH SPOKEN 1CE; TWICE HAVE EYE HEARD THIS; THAT POWER BLONGETH UN2 GOD

    Prince made the music. Time Warner makes the $$$. As if profitting from Prince's past albums isn't bad enuff, now this. Not only is the l8est "Best Of" CD a slap in Prince's face, but a slap in God's. We think $18.99 is a high price 2 pay 4 a CD? W8 til the record xecs at Time Warner find out the price they must pay 4 going against the word of God. Rich fools laugh now. But, when Prince passes thru the needle's eye on camelback, he'll have the last laugh.

    Message 2 Prince: ALSO UN2 THEE, O LORD, BLONGETH MERCY: 4 THOU RENDEREST 2 EVERY MAN ACCORDING 2 HIS WORK

    Prince, u did The Work, and grow evermore virtuous as u w8 2 reap ur just reward. In the meantime, u knocked on r doors and we opened them 2 u. We r the members of the NPGMC. WB has come 2 stand 4 "Won't Buy". We've heard what Freedom sounds like... and there's no turning back!

    LOV3 GOD
    LOV3 LIF3,
    LOV3S3XY

    Terri Ferriero

    To think that Warner could decide what is the "Very Best Of" any artist, let alone Prince, appals me...I will definitely not be buying this one...besides, I already have the best of Prince--it's called "all of his CD's"...

    P.
    Perrin Stewart

    GOD is always watching.
    LaLa

    This seems like a bad move for AOL-Time Warner. Everyone knows about the sour relationship between Prince and Warner Brothers. Warner Brothers found the relationship very profitable ,and their bottom line flourished from their association with Prince, despite the bitter acrimony towards the end. Here is what bewilders me: Why would Warner Brothers take this extra step to alienate Prince and his loyal base of supporters? Do they really need the extra money to the point that they are going to throw salt in old wounds? I cannot fathom what propellerhead at Warner Brothers greenlit this swell idea.

    Ron Mwangaguhunga

    I've been away from the club for a couple of days. Needless to say when I returned I damn near laughed out loud

    I can appreciate everyone's voracious anger at the folks at Warner. But when you look at the concepts of ownership and business in this country, why are we even surprised? C'mon y'all. You know these old cats with zero sense of originality, style, passion, and respect of music and musician were going to do this. All they know and understand is the bottom line of the financials. They were trained to be this way from their predecessors and professors in their selective schools of business. America is the epitome of ruthless and malicious business practice with no regard to the human essence. How do think the country was founded. Manhattan is known for it's tall buildings and commerce and all that stuff, but we all know the original "masters" of the island were not adequately compensated. And that was at the beginning of America....nothing has changed. Now the descendants are here exercising the practices that have been in play for centuries now.

    I haven't read the song list yet, but a Greatest Hits collection from the folks at Warner is already available. and it's just about a decade old. I guess WB is looking to crop some new ears before they are exposed top the truth. Is it desperate...yes, but they are businessmen with zero regard for the art. Once you understand the monster it can be dealt with.

    Prince, if you are listening this is what you are to do. Being that u are a grown man, and your own man and a man that has been dealing with this thing since your first demo and have a deeper more intimate understanding of this than all of us who love you and your work, understand our passion and follow your heart. I've respected your work since Purple Rain (I was eight at the time) but I wasn't a fam til I heard Thieves In The Temple and My Name Is Prince. Keep on keepin on, and stay true to your heart... I understand that you are looking toward divine guidance to guide it now.

    What a lack of respect and creativity !
    They forget (?) that behind the music and the lyrics there's a human being and that this man is an artist !
    Music is not money !
    Culture is not a product! Art is not a part of the liberal society !
    Keep figthing in peace !
    We are Here !
    Yoyo and Mary.

    This cd is just another way 2 make more money and get U 2 buy a cd with songs that they still have not paid 4 N "full". A TRUE "fam" will not buy this 1 and wait 4 the real cd 2 come out. HOLD OUT dont SALE OUT!!!!!!!!!

    Peace and much love
    The R

    Well, many of my friends know Prince as his hits. As much as I've tried xposing them to the whole other world of incredible music, they still settle for the hits. Fot his reason, the Hits collection would be great and it would make them happy. Also, if Prince continues to do a HitnRun tour, all he is doing is encouraging their fascination with these songs. Had Prince experimented more often (as with in Montreal) perhaps he can make their mouth water for mind blowing music. Not 2 say the Hits aren't great...

    As for Prince not making money off of the album, unfortunately, the general public will not care. Look at how many Elvis, Jimi, Aretha, and Sly collections exist from various labels. They sell by the crateful and who cares? Sadly nobody. Because these artists rest on their laurels, or are not able to defend themselves. Why doesn't Prince play a tour to rebel? don't play a single hit and leave the audience hungry for more!

    THAT would do it!

    Thanks,
    Bob

    No surprise here........this is the nature of the beast. To talk about the CD(even negatively) is giving Warner what they want......attention & free advertising. Outside of this realm, this CD is something I won't even think or talk about! By the way.....thanks NPG for the CD in the mail, Rave in2 the Joy fantastic....now that's the real deal!

    S

    I think that Prince has provided a perfect opportunity for Warner Brothers to release a new "Best Of Prince" CD. Prince has been singing all of these songs in his Hit-N-Run Tour which seems to be for the "Purple Rain Fans", Warner Brothers is simply capitalizing on all the free publicity that Prince has been providing.
    Those of us who consider ourselves Fams have moved beyond the old hits and are interested on what Prince is doing now.

    I think that Prince needs to make a compilation of what HE considers the best of his musical career for his true FAMS, or release his new album soon.

    Please don't make us wait two years like for RITJF. Some folks will get desperate and buy the WB album to soothe their fix.

    MPLSFunk

    Prince U R the 1. Make U`re own "Best of" album.WB don`t know what "Best of" is. And if I may ask U? When is "The Rainbow Children" coming 2 Norway\Scandinavia.
    Love4oneanother.
    1 who`s a Fam.
    Espen Pedersen.

    Warner Bros - no no no no! Okay, so they CONtractually have the right to release this (then all connections/pimping opportunities are over right?) but why are they making such a mess of it? Are they deliberately being vindictive? Are they trying to undermine the importance of the work Prince did with them for nearly 20 years?

    The cover sucks! It must have been "designed" by an executive with no eyesight! It looks cheap and nasty and totally misrepresents the material contained on the CD (3 Parade pics and the Dirty Mind cover for example). Surely the art dept could have dug out a nice pic of Prince - they could just use the brooding Batman era one in the top left?

    The tracklist is stupid. Why not include "My Name Is Prince", "7", "Batdance" weren't they all hits?

    How can they call it "The Very Best Of" as if they can make that judgment, it's completely subjective. At least call it "Prince - the single" or "Prince - the greatest hits"

    PRINCE, everyone is saying it and I will too - Release The Rainbow Children, some new material that pushes ppls expectations. Show the world that you are far more than a hit maker and still have more than what it takes!

    Also, why not counter the WB release by releasing a LIVE Greatest Hits package - damn it could even be the same tracklist. I know which one I would buy.

    Jay Potton

    This seems to me like WB trying to CONfuse the people, knowing all too well that Prince is releasing his own greatest hits package soon.

    So when yer average customer walks into a store and sees two greatest hits packages… which one do they buy?
    I hope Prince gets big promotion for his greatest hits package, as Warners won't be promoting theirs…

    Unfortunately WB own the originals… the versions the people know and love.

    Hi All
    i'm writing from Australia and presently i have not seen the package on any shelves.I first heard it through the NPGMC that they were releasing another package. What a rip, they are all scums and are trying to bleed it for it is worth. Good luck to them ,but all true fams will know that there is nothing new there and hence no need to purchase it.Anywho, all the good stuff is right here on the NPGMC, so keep up all the good work and happy downloading to all, this is where it's at!
    Love and Peace
    Rob from Melbourne Australia

    ps.we are all waiting 2 c u again, so come soon please

    Obviously Time Warner are trying 2 gather up as many of the crumbs remaining of their cut of the Purple Pie and squeeze that little bit more out of the deal.

    "WHEN WILL HE B PAID"

    I am absolutely disgusted at the attempt 2 tell us what we've already got!!!

    WE DON'T WANT THE PAST-WE WANT THE FUTURE.....The Rainbow Children.

    Peace & B Wild
    Phil. U.K.

    Warner doesn't care about what we all think about this release. They just don't even care about what Prince thinks about this sh**. But they have a contract and the right to put this greatest hits out once again. So all we have to do is just ignore it.
    The only thing that means for me is the future. NPG Music Club is a bright side of this. Prince, let's be honest half a minute. When have you been trying to sell your music for the last time ? Since Emancipation, have you really tried to show the world that you're still the one to hear when it comes about good soundz????? I would say no. So release the Rainbow Children now. I know this record is not made for the masses but it seems to be about truth and talent. So I hope that's what the world needs. You don't need to purchase for hit records anymore. You've already seen the top. But no matter what you do, you have to try to put it in the ears of the world. Maybe they will adore it, maybe not. But you shouldn't have to care about that. The only thing you have to prove is that you're still alive. Give us the Rainbow children. Forget about the new master hits package you wanted to put out. You sang that everybody wants to sell what's already been sold. Don't be like that, man. What's your name??

    Chris alias soulpower

    Addicted to prince for life

    will i buy it....no. i've got the artwork and the songs. my only thing is what is this obsession with money "keeping in mind of course the fact that Prince makes virtually no money from the CD." The meek shall inherit the earth. all i want is good music. i don't give a "duck" how it sells

    b-funk

    The album WILL sell 'coz what else is there 2 buy? Y not put some fresh new music in2 the stores and give the fams what they want - not every1has pc access. release It!

    Funny that they have "Money dont Matter 2 night" on this collection. When it matters to them ... oh so much. Milking the purple cow for one more last drop. It doesnt matter to Warners... ummmmm. They are so sad.
    The Hits/ B Sides is more than a perfect collection of the Warner Years. Every bar, club, DJ, casual fam, or real fam has this collection.

    Ya know, it just blows my mind that the principalities just keep on using God's (Jehovah Nisi's) children any and every way that they can. I really feel for anyone thats just getting into the Biz as well as those that going for the come backs! With the exception of P.Diddy and Mariah artists control clauses seem to really be a thing of the past. Not to mention the insulting array of tunes that the radio air waves bombard us with! Whew it's enough to make ya wanna holla!
    Well keep on representing in the digital age PRN! I'm out! Grooven to a lil Neal Schon's Beyond The Thunder!

    Love ya! PEACE! DEANNA! (STILL DIVALICIOUS!)

    Brotha P listen...its is time...its time 4 U 2 let the world know what is going on. Not through the spoken moments U have during your concerts but through the promotion of your new born children (your music). U have 2 wonder, how will you get your children to the proper daycare's? That's where I come in. U want your music represented the way you wanted promoted truthfully, lets talk. No joke my friend, people need to know the truth like when you felt it when you went through the creation of Sign of the Times/Crystal Ball/Black Album/Lovesexy experiences. When people look to rehash the past (Even Warner Brothers), that means they are in need of the past's way of leading the direction to opening their eyes. U dig?

    Thank U 4 listening,
    Rigo Headley

    knowing what i know - it wont be on my list to buy...

    When I heard that WB was going 2 release a "greatest hits" album of Prince, I laughed out loud. It's pathetic how they r still trying 2 cash in on him. I truly understand y Prince is so upset that WB owns his music. I have heard him say in interviews and such that he thinks of his songs as his children. The fact that WB is releasing his children in a way that Prince never said "ok" 2 is SAD. Y is it that the songs that he put his HEART and SOUL in2 can b released w/o his consent? And WB is the company that wouldn't allow the MUSICAL GENIUS that he is do what he wanted. He had 2 have been one of their most talented acts, and that is so obvious because they r now releasing songs (that TRUE fams have ALREADY) on2 a CD w/ OLD pictures on the cover, PLEASE! I can't wait until Prince re-releases his music. I hope he still does that. He is a musical genius and I am so happy he is FREE from WB, it is just sad that his children r not.

    One more thing.. Prince, I have so much respect 4 what U r doing, showing other artists and ppl in general that the musical industry isn't what it seems. I am so sick of these groups that the industry puts 2gether 2 take our money. These ppl r NOT artists, just puppets. It frustrates me 2 no end. Thank U Prince 4 ur REAL music.

    Love,
    Cassandra

    I think now is the time 2 show the world, that U R not just a greatest hits performer! Release a new album (Rainbow Children or something else) now! Promote it and show that U R coming out with new music! I think most of the people, who R not hardcore fams like us, dont know Ur music after Ur name change in 1993! I think they were very confused!!

    For those who say "Prince, you got enough money already, why are you complaining?", I have to say that you are missing the point. For one thing, you have not even come close to having the same experience that Prince has had in the industry over the past 25 years. His perspective is unique and should be respected. If he says that this industry is disrespectful to artists and destructive to art, we should all listen. He has learned a lot over the years and had to go through a lot to get to the place he's in now. How else do you know what contracts are about other than by signing one of the biggest, only to realize it has robbed you of your children? He's here to let us know, you always have a choice, make it wisely and you can avoid the mistakes he's made.

    Yes, this is a business. Yes, artists make business partnerships to get their work out to the masses. But why can't this business be set up differently? Why can't an artist own their work? Record labels say "We cannot make a profit without owning the master recordings." That is a lie. The truth is they cannot make AS MUCH of a profit if they do not own the masters. In a business where musicians selling 7 million records are going bankrupt, clearly there is an imbalance.

    Instead of pointing fingers at an artist calling these imbalances to our attention, let's point the fingers back to the record labels who refuse to let go of artist's masters. Truly they are the ones who need to be schooled in matters of justice and doing the right thing.

    Creation is divine, treat it as such.

    love4oneanother,
    Christopher

    You know this greatest hits thing, well yeah these are some great songs by Prince. But it ends with Diamonds and Pearls. Hello?? Gold Experience! If I'm not mistaken "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World" was quiet a hit on the Warner label.On a more personal note. Same material, nothing new. Warner is running low on steam, musically and spiritually. I think I already bought a greatest hits album thankyou very much.

    Much love to the future,
    Ken Gulick

    I'm guessing their version of "the best of" doesn't even scratch the surface.
    -A-

    FAMS OF THE WORLD !
    PLEASE !
    If you're a true friend do not buy this album! Why should you? We already own these jams! And if you don't, you have to buy the Rave DVD ! All the true fams want The Rainbow Children. (Come on, Prince, let them fly!)

    love&peace from the netherlands
    Peter Lodder

    I love Prince and I love his music. I have just about every album he has ever made. When he writes a song for another artist, I even buy that. Out of total respect and admiration for Prince, I will not purchase the CD.

    Lisa Hubbard

    Hi folks,

    There is nothing new so why bother at all. I am waiting for the new compilation from Prince, old songs in new recordings.

    Peace and be wild
    & Best Regards

    Anders (a proud premium member of NPGMC)

    I protested the police shooting of TYISHA MILLER here in riverside, c.a. and have a pending lawsuit against the city because of it.
    I' ll be damned if i ever buy a prince cd from warner again, because prince makes the music... prince should make the money !
    stay strong prince...
    activist/artist/vegetarian
    don

    Darn it! I did not know it was warner bros. releasing it. And I was looking forward to going out and buying it. Now I will not buy it out of respect for Prince, besides that I am quite sure I already have all of the songs on that CD. I think Prince should release the same album (if he can) under his label and lets see how many would sell the mst copies. If he were to do that then I would definetly go out and buy it!!! Warner bros. can make thier money off of somebody else- not Prince. Misty Burke

    Do not allow yourself to be directed toward negative energy. Only towards Good Orderly Direction.

    Dear sir or madam,
    I suggest that NPG records creats its own Best of using special remixes and re-made songs. Distribution of the record is very important so one should organize it very carefully. Of course it would be ideal if the record could be promoted through radio stations, record stores and TV music stations. A world tour (inclusive of Greece, Please) could be a good idea.

    Good luck and please keep on doing what you are doing, successfully, for so long.

    Regards
    Constantinos Zafranas

    As a music consumer only recently becoming aware of this issue, I am not at all surprised that WB put this out. As painful an experience this has been for Prince, the listening audience doesn't come from his perspective. We don't have many options, we can't pick and choose the artists representation coming from the corporate music industry. Neither can the artist apparently. I am pleased to see Prince working and succeeding at putting his own music out there. But for me, this is all new. I am not terribly computer friendly. I am the generation that invented pc's but haven't gotten into full swing with it, our younger generation takes to it like a fish in water. Personally my preference is for vinyl. Issue your new releases on VINYL, PLEASE!!! I would also love to see, hear, an album of Prince songs written for and made famous by other artists, but this time sung by Prince, in all his glory. I think most people are unaware of the deep and richly written music by Prince that he hasn't himself performed. He has such a wealth of inspiring lyrics, a great mind, sexy, soulful, beautiful, he's Prince!! What more could you say. He has the Midas touch. I will not buy this best of CD, I have all those songs on vinyl. But I can't play my records in my car, so I make mixed tapes. And jam on down the road. Thanks for your hard work Prince. I've got my ears open.

    Hi NPGMC fams
    I would definitely not buy this since I have all these songs already. I agree with what some of u have been saying, namely that Prince should put out a video anthology on DVD and VHS so we can have all the videos that don't get shown on TV!! I am also totally in love with all the new songs (Hypnoparadise, Van Gough, SM Groove, etc) and I was at the Celebration and am dying to get a hold of The Rainbow Children CD. It is so awesome!! I just wish I could afford a CD burner so I could make my own cds from the club.

    To Prince, I say don't worry one bit about those losers at WB, they won't make any money on this because none of your fams will buy it. We are all too loyal to u.

    Keep putting out that new music!
    Love, Cat

    as a former employe of a major record label, it's easy for me to understand, why a record company tries to make money out of stars allready known. new projects, with unknown music, unknown styles, new kinds of provocations normally cost at first. as a matter of fact, it's basicly the "old, wellknown artists" who give the money to the company, while the revolutioners normally cost more to them. So the "old" ones pay for the "young" ones... a strange kind of solidarity, maybe...

    But as a matter of fact PRINCE AIN'T THE FIRST ONE, LOSING HIS RIGHTS TO A RECORD COMPANY. BUT HE SHOULD BE THE LAST ONE!

    go for music, not for cash!

    Warner Bros. has got 2 b kidding us, right? Y n the world would eye want 2 waste money on something that's not needed n my Prince collection? Eye didn't join the fam 4 nothing, u no! Eye would rather get the music from the source nstead of the greedy. Prince has opened my eyes 2 how the music business works; eye'd rather not support them!

    Isn't that creative? They use others artistic talents, and THEY make money off of it!! I'm not too familiar about the dealings in the music industry--but I'm glad I know this. I WILL NOT BE BUYING THIS CD AND I WILL TELL ALL OF MY FRIENDS ABOUT IT!! I agree with a prior response that said, that you should create a CD and put "the original, this ones for my people, not for Sony" or "S***" if you can't use their name. It's a shame...and I am saddened for them- that they would stoop so low...BUT DOESN'T THAT JUST PISS YOU OFF??!!! I'm pissed 'cause I can't buy the CD!! Just for you!! Fran in New Orleans!!

    another attempt 2 profit from someone without consent. The music Business is a dirty world. Peace 2 NPG 4 the brave breakaway.
    Long Live the NPG.
    Fellow artists - r u listening .....

    peace. ravinder.

    Hmmm, have Warner Bros forgotten that there has already been a Greatest Hits package....what are they gonna do now...keep narrowing it down until they have a cd with one track on and call it "Prince's Greatest Hit"!!!???

    Just between U and Me I think Warner Bros have shot themselves in the foot...i bet it don't sell very well cuz everyones got the trax already and there is nothing new on it to encourage people to buy the same collection of songs all over again.

    Who the hell have they got in charge of marketing these days..he should be sacked on the spot.

    I wont be buing it cuz I dont need to....who does apart from people who just want a few cool trax to listen to without a big back catalogue???

    MBUK

    I think we (The disciples)should ban Time Warner CD and Prince should come up with something spectacular that would knock "the best of" CD off the charts. Even though, it is a collaboration of Prince's Favorites from the past. But, We have the original and not the rip offs. WHO COULD COMPETE WITH US?! NO ONE. *LAUGH*

    Symphony

    Never pay attention to whom your ex-girlfriend is dating! She ain't worth the brain cells, brother!! Phillip

    Only the uninformed will purchase this "new" WB release. No one who knows and cares about Prince will purchase this album out of respect for him. How can we love the man and at the same time support those who would line their pockets at his expense?

    Looking forward to attending the next Celebration in 327 days!

    Paisley peace from New Mexico,
    Rob & Diana Milburn

    WB SUCKS.. !! They STEAL from PRINCE take his name & HIS WORK ...We wouldnt by this CD out of respect for PRINCE( ......Maybe bad things are happening to WB ( like having to close their WB stores that made NO Money, theme park sell offs etc..) because they steal from good people like PRINCE..Its all about the Money for WB... We have been fans for many years and are members of your Fam right here... we will support all you do .. We will support you for PRESIDENT if you want... PLEASE , PLEASE RUN !!!
    With Love, Your Devoted fans & Fam..
    Marty & Joyce in Philly

    it seems 2 me, buying the "best of" disc is a waste of $ plain & simple. Y would any of us want a comp of material that any fan could make themself? on the other paw, the people who r going 2 buy it don't visit this site, & might not even know that Prince is still kicking out bad"fanny" jamz. so hey, if our man can make a little X-tra $ off the public who choose 2 stay out of the loop, power 2 Prince! b sides we all get mountains o material 4 a sweet price through npgmc, we're Princes' key demo, not the people @ best buy paying 4 trax that we all know sdrawkcab & 4wards. tell all your Prince fan friends about npgmc, I do. that's how we'll beat the bast**ds... xcuzemymouth
    there's my $0.02 & that's all.
    Paul C

    Well I think this is a attemped low blow from a corporate pioneer, all I can say is a quote from the bible ,"All that is not holy (Meaning not good from man) shell be revealed from god. that goes for EVERYBODY,including greedy record companies.
    On the other hand, Prince! you always will have fams that care about you, and stand for what you stand for the "ONE SONG" peace and b wild ;-)

    Lorenzo Orduno Jr.
    (Prince fam for 18 yrs. , and inspired musician for 16 yrs.

    I have all of the jams. Got them when they were new, not old. So Why Bother with WB. Although I do wish a new cd would come out soon. Maybe that would help take of WB ???? Peace, Oliver

    2 those out there who write material b it poetry, music,and spoken word hopeful understanding. Let'z all have sum respect and understanding. we deserve what we earn much props to u prince , eye my self write poems \ spoken word . seen in the mist my eyes are not so clear . but does my heart seek truth the light of GOD is here. by veda vee. peace

    This is standard practise for the record industry. When you have a good "product" you keep putting it out as often as you can expect a return. Check the big record shops and see how many "Best of..." albums you can find for artist like The Beach Boys, Hendrix, The Mamas and The Papas, etc. The new Prince compilation isn't realy aimed at "us". They know a lot of people are completists (they feel incomplete if they do not "own" the brightly coloured things they are shown) and will be unable to resist the urge to part with the money they sweated for. They are well trained. These are the sort of people who might buy several copies of the same comic book - one to read, one to store in a bag forever. They can be trained to collect all kinds of plastic pap. Consume your happy meal and take this toy as your reward, again, one to open and play with, one to keep in its bag forever. Let's be honest, we've all been there.
    I appreciate some of the comments posted above. I don't need to buy another Best of. I already have copies all the tracks on it, as do most people reading this. So let's be grateful for that, and for all the happiness the songs have brought us. Let's try to pass on some of that joy to the people we see each day. And next time you're deciding whether to buy or pass it by, ask yourself, "Do I really NEED this? Or is it just a shiny toy from the corporations, something to keep me from enjoying a real life?"

    Not sure what the point is...didn't TimeWarner already release "Prince: The Hits 1,2, & 3"? That was compiled of the music to which they were/are entitled...anything after that they can not use...I'm sure it's almost the same...why do they continue to commercialize him in a way he does not desire...have they no loyalty?

    Charles
    Lexington, KY

    2 naughty 2 say......ok, them greedy **ckers.i aint buyin it either.love 2 all...anne

    High,

    After all that Prince went thru to gain the rights 2 his masters. This is a terrible blow 2 him. Warner Bros have basically just kicked sand in his face. My advice 2 the genius is release The Rainbow Children right now because of the Warner CD just being released. This will ' kill' the sales of the Warner CD and people will turn 2 the The Rainbow Children 2 buy because the public have already got the Hits/B-sides anyway.

    Peace
    Love4OneAnother
    Manjit, UK

    Well, it pathetic that Prince doesn't receive a dime for his own music. Downright shameful. WB could have at least donated a portion to his favorite charity. However, what do you expect from one of the world most notorious pimps!

    The media is now celebrating the 80's, it seems. Fashion, music beats and lyrics, and visual concepts in particular are just a few examples of the main media thrust toward this trend. Warner is just working hard to catch the wave while they can. The stores are full of remastered, repackaged Top 40 80's artists. They would only be wise to include Prince in the mix.

    What baffles me is that Prince is constantly creating; why did they nearly duplicate the Hits and not include a few unreleased tracks to gain the interest of his avid fam members. Or include a poster, or something. Folks inquisitive about Prince would turn to THE HITS cause it's self explanatory and a good sample of his work. Why would they by this new release? Why would avid fams buy it either.

    As a fam member I think it is very tired of them and am insulted. Are they saying that out of the VOLUMES of work he has done, they can only manage to repackage THE HITS. They would have done better to repackage the B sides by itself. Naaawww, maybe not. The whole repackaging thing is dumb, especially since, more than likely, the HITS and this new release will be found side by side in the stores. Why did they do this? Maybe it's some marketing voodoo. I'm not comprehending this vibe at all.

    Anyway, I'm ready to buy The Rainbow Children. WB STEP ASIDE!

    bwild4me,
    Tanya

    I would never purchase STOLEN PROPERTY.

    Purchase music from WB...HA! those days are long over. Not when I can simply turn on my computer and listen to the funk first hand like:

    - Underneath The Cream
    - Splash
    - VanGough
    - When I Lay My Hands On You
    - Habibi
    the list goes on forever. I think it's sad that Warner have stooped to this level. "Negative people don't get to play, positivity is the only way."

    I want to listen to music that's artistically owned and creatively grown. As far as I'm concerned only Prince can provide that. Why go anywhere else for his music.

    Freedom never sounded so GOOD my brotha!!! I'm the happiest Premium Member alive!

    Warner Bros. WHO???
    "Y Should Eye Do That When Eye Can Do This?"

    Marcia Bright
    New York, NY

    It makes me wanna puke!Haven´t they allready put out an triple-cd?

    Mikael Nordberg
    Sweden

    The recording industry is in business to make money, period. What should be expected from a pig is a grunt and greed. The release of this album does not surprise me, nor should it surprise Prince. P, this should make you feel even more comfort in your departure from the “man”.

    Stay Up P,
    rf

    This is surely the last opportunity WB will have to steal milk from their former cash cow.

    Hopefully this now means that Prince can release his own new cd's without those money grubbers trying to capitalize on it by releasing another collection at the same time. I'm sure they expected "Rave" to be a more popular cd with all of the promotion it received and thought it would be wise to piggyback "The Vault" on the same marketing wave. Happily they were wrong and Prince didn't help them make more money on his back.

    I look forward to the next Prince/NPG cd release taking the world by storm and reminding people what great music sounds like, because the bland manufactured stuff on the radio is hurting my ears. And I cannot believe that Prince intends to let Madonna represent great musicians to future generations.

    "[T]hey shoulda called it 'Pay Us For Something You Already Have So We Can Make Money From You and Prince, Again'" -- that's hilarious.

    Martin Moulton
    Washington, DC

    Is it just me or do Warner Brothers really like the idea of releasing a Prince album just b4 Prince releases one of his own. Remember how soon Old Friends 4 Sale appeared in the stores when Prince was planning to bring out RUTJF, long after New Power Soul, the previous album came out

    Not dissimilar, Prince having announced his intention to bring out The Rainbow Children in the fall/autumn, soon finds that Warner have the cheek to pre-empt him again with a "best of" collection and again a long time after the last Prince album. "Spoilers" (N.B. spoil her!) are a bad way to milk profit. Money shouldn't rule!

    the very best of Prince? that's a contradiction. The very best thing about Prince is that he is a prolyfic song writer whose "best" work never charted on the radio. If U want to truly honor him, remaster the original albums as they are, so I don't have to turn the volume up so high just to hear them in my car.

    Arinaur
    Braddock, Pa. USA

    i think warners r exploiting the great man and surely u can take out an injunction of some sort 2 try and stop it!!!! i would b in favour of it if u had any say in the matter but u dont so i am against it... peace and b wild
    paul farrell dundee SCOTLAND

    Another case of de ja vu?
    I've read the varying comments on this issue, and really i think it would b rather immature 2 immediately "strike" back so 2 speak.I'm not a member of the music club and hadn't heard anything about a greatest hits re-realease until i logged in2 the sight...but i plan 2 join immediately..... personally i think the cd will b a commercial flop ...even the timid fans will know this isn't new music..so i really don't see why it's being released...solution...release the highly anticipated remix cds....triple platinum 4 real boo...that'll send 'em back 2 the drawing board...4 sho!

    Derrick..6-1-'65
    Memphis,Tenn.

    I think you should release a new Album.So you can make new fans (freinds). Alot of people just know you as 80's early 90's icon ,but only us diehard fans now the real deal.

    It seems 2 me that Warner's has a Field of Dreams mentality: "If U build it , they will come."
    2 an extent they will get the sales that they are after: the casual or first time Prince listener will put down their money for this cd. Some diehards will even buy it to "complete" their Prince collection. It seems everyone at NPGMusic Club has the mindset that they r not going to purchase this CD. Going off of the 1st weeks numbers of people that signed up for the Music Club of 7000 members x $16.98 per cd that equals $118,860.00 that they won't be receiving. That's not including the members that have signed on to the club since, or the people that have the hits collection already, and don't see any sense in buying another.
    If I have read correctly, Warners had under contract this one compilation cd left to fulfill the contract with Prince. I believe they would have been better served to release a compilation of the as-of-yet unreleased b-sides that weren't included on the hits package, as well as the 12" versions of b-sides and remixes that are out of print and only available on vinyl. This would make the diehards, the casual listener, and the new listener all happy.The diehard would have their collection from WB truly complete. The casual and new listener would relive or discover for the first time the GENIUS that is Prince!!! Warner would make their money and Prince could at least be happy in that his "children" were at last free 2 b heard the way that they were intended 2 b.
    I for one do not intend to line the pockets of the suits at warners again!!! They got my money the first time when I bought Prince's albums on cassette and vinyl. They got it again a second time when the CD was invented and I repurchased all of the back catalog. They got it a third time with the Hits/B-sides compilation for the same songs I basically already had. I refuse 2 b a "victim" a fourth time!!!

    Being as charitable as possible, any institution that encourages one to sit in judgment of what is another's bad, good or Very Best is fundamentally flawed from the core outward.

    Warner Brothers can go ahead and release it. Don't b thinking that I'm against U'all, cuz I couldn't b more 4 the cause. U c, looking at the story of God and the Devil, one can c that no matter how hard or how much the Devil takes from God, God and goodness always win in the end, it's an Undisputable truth. Warner Brothers (can we really call them r brothers?) will release the CD, and all of the non-sense involved with their scheme will not b there n the end. Freedom wins in the end, no matter what. The Americans beat the British, good beats evil, God beats the Devil, and we will beat Warner Bros. Y? We've got something they can't fathom or understand: the FREEDOM. If they did, there would b no Warner Brothers, all of their artists would b given their masters. And what's 2 stop them from b-ing Emancipated aswell 1ce they can c that they can b free? Keep the evil out, my brothers and sisters, my fellow Rainbow Children. Keep the freedom in. A good way 2 xcercize that power is 2 not purchase this CD, there's no reason. Prince knows we'll win. In fact, we've already won.

    -Jesse

    I have a slightly different perspective on the 'new' Warner release, considering I live in China were you can 'freely' buy pirated Prince CDs (and those of other major artists) for less than US$2. The fact that the money doesn't go back to the artist in countries like China has virtually destroyed all innovation in the local music industry and offers artists very little incentive to ever consider touring here. Pay your money to the source before it disappears.

    JC in Shanghai.

    I think that these exec's decided to take advantage of P's US and impending world tour figuring they would throw together a little hits cd and have it promoted, indirectly by Prince.
    How reprehensible and just plain wrong!!!!
    I'm not buying this cd ....... nobody should be pimped out against their will.
    So I'm content to just sit back and when the day comes I will just watch as......
    "One after the other, the Banished Ones fled as they watched from the distance the destruction of the Digital Garden" and then the music will belong to us all!!!!

    Pointless! Just another bland greatest hits collection with no justification for it's existence whatsoever, especially since the old "Hits" cds from 1993 are still available everywhere. Everyone knows that "best of" CD collections never make the mark anyway since the songs one really loves never appear on collection's like these. "The Very Best" is a hilarious title to me, the last thing I'm interested in knowing is what corporate insiders think are the "best" songs, since they are frequently unaware of what the best is and often get in the way of letting the best happen. (Like "The Beautiful Ones", which undoubtedly would've taken control of the radio in '84 if anyone thought of releasing it as a single. The enraged climax being played on mainstream radio wouldn't have bothered people, it would have taken Top 40 audiences by storm, taken the fame of the famous climax of The Doors's "Light My Fire" away like taking candy from a baby, the merging of '50s soul, new wave and Blade Runner Vangelis synths would have been perfect back then and made the "Purple Rain" era even more unusual and revolutionary. Prince learned with "Dirty Mind", that if you have popularity, use it to do something people will remember which is what The Beatles did, but people corporations were too worried about money in the '80s and are even more so now.. Most of the time, I'll bet the artist is at the mercy of corporate preferences of what singles will be released, so....) But even as a smash hits/chart topping collection the new "best of" CD is not accurate and adds nothing new. If '93's "Hits" collection was too bulky or some of the songs in it were not officially hits, why was "Money Don't Matter 2Night" included in the new collection? It was not a big success compared to his other hits. And how could they skip "Sexy MF" and "7" or "Controversy" (the first Prince song I heard on Top 40, not black, radio)? The fact that they skipped the hits from his 1992 album is strange, as if they were trying to frame his success as being more limited to a certain time period, which is not very nice from a historical point of view, not to mention from a business point of view if it helps to make look more dated than he really is and hence, seems kind of fishy to me. And they could have used this as an opportunity to add extra depth to the previous set, since Prince's "Hits" collection was missing music from "Batman", his big '94 hit "The Most Beautiful Girl In the World" (which was also released on the Warner album "The Gold Experience") which charted at #2 in the US just months after the "Hits" albums were released, the Prince-penned "Graffiti Bridge" track that didn't score on the radio until the movie had already vanished from theaters - little Tevin's "Round and Round" and since the B-side hit "Erotic City" was missing from the "Hits" discs first time around and was relegated to the "B-sides" disc (giving historians the impression that it was just an extra track, when in fact it is played more on radio today than anything on "Diamonds and Pearls"). Actually, I think all those omissions on "The Hits" were deliberate and say something of how Prince wanted his WB music to be seen, rather than the company. Even if you disagree, at least one can know that it was the creator who made those omissions. In short, if there's a best of compilation already on the market, and one that Prince himself was involved with compiling, then another hits collection just clutters up the record store if it doesn't add anything new. If this was "The Hits III", and with the man himself contributing some input or even some unreleased music, I might go for it (but probably not even then). But this is just a quick way to make an extra buck without having to offer one single new note of music to the purchaser. Perhaps it's supposed to be a more conveniant, trimmer disc for the masses, but I think the previous collection had that as a goal as well. The first "Hits" CD's had style. One CD had the clean songs, the other had the dirty songs and both were sold separately and had some new tunes sprinkled on. It was a good idea, since a Prince's hits album was inevitable. It looks like when Prince agreed to the 2 CDs for the Hits collection, he wanted it to be so thorough, that it would be the last word. But this is worse than those endless releases of Queen CDs several years back that was 90% old music with one new track or remix thrown in (Greatest, Classic, Rocks, etc. Son of Queen, Queen vs. Mothra) It used to be that there was one greatest hits compilation for most artists and that was it, but now we're so used to seeing companies releasing these disposable hits collections all the time. We've all flipped through CD's at the record store or clicked on a certain artist at Amazon.com to find one, two, three, no wait - FOUR Hits collections on some artist that may exceed the number of albums the artist actually created. Record companies should release one hits collection and stick with it, or release something that adds to the previous collection. Poor Warner Bros., you have to feel a little sorry for them a little bit. Prince left them and now they have to recycle his catalogue to regenerate interest in what he gave them. Prince should give them "Crystal Ball II", but with a completely different agreement on the specifics of the arrangement (how much money the artist gets, etc.). I'll bet they'd put it out and the fans would be happy. In the meantime, Warners should get "The Hits/B-sides" triple disc back in circulation, which was praised so highly by critics and fans like myself. Either way, I've been starving since '99's "Rave Un2 The Joy Fantastic", and I know that Warners bulemic Prince music isn't going to help, so I'm going to get a subscription to NPGOnline while I'm waiting for "The Rainbow Children". Sorry about this long rant, but I just wanted to offer my peace of mind. Yours truely, Ryan.

    I will not purchase the cd!! When I need to replace any Prince release from Warner Brothers, I will go to the second hand market so that no new $$$ goes to the thieves.

    Jai

    Slavery is not dead in corporate Amerikkka! I for one will not buy this CD! Why should I give my money to these greedy fiends when I can purchase the tunes I want directly from the "creator" himself? Why do I have to go though these prehensile "thieves in the temple"? I will only buy directly from the man himself!

    To Prince, I think this Very Best Compilation is a waste of my money and I will not support this project. I already have all of your cd's from "For You" - "Rave Unto The Joy Fantastic". However, I think you should counter act with Warner Brothers and dig into your vault and pull out 10 cd's worth of unreleased tracks. This Box Set of unreleased music is a dream of any prince fam. For example, Jimi Hendrix (4) cd box set is all unreleased material with alot of great live performances and outakes. Another example, is Pearl Jam they have released 25 cd's of their latest concert tour for their fans to enjoy. How many cd's can you say you released that the fans enjoyed? Prince please unlock the vault and put those songs on compact disc and sell them in the store or on 1-800 new funk. I enjoyed Crystal Ball I am ready for another trip through the vault. Oh, I forgot to mention If you do another vault cd please do the production more carefully on disc 3 of crystal ball the tracks 18 and over and the ride run into each other instead of spacing the songs apart.

    Thanks Keith

    Hmmmm... once again, Warner Records putting on the Mac Daddy suit, and slipping a trashy pair o' black fish-nets and stilettos on Prince to work the street corner. Most labels will always have the same lame-ass wardrobe for themselves and something taudry for the artists. I can't imagine what it would be like if Prince didn't at least write and produce himself. If he hadn't, he probably would have never seen any kind of paycheck. The record company couldn't possibly honor the music itself or respect it's creator. Are they the only one's who didn't love Prince's music?

    DON'T WE ALREADY HAVE THIS?!? HELLO!!! BAD IDEA WB!!! Y? I'll give some reasons why:

    1. "The Hits/The B-Sides"
    2. Your CONtract with the Purple 1Xpired already!
    3. Princedunleftyomonkeyass2kickdatnewpowersoulhisway!
    4. NPG should have a "Greatest Hits" with the album versions of the hits & the full B-sides this time.
    5. And don't 4get the "Artist 4mally Known As" stuff, 'cuz that was some hot ish 2! (Think it ain't)
    6. And the "Batman" hits 2.

    I guess all I'm tryin 2 say is:
    WEDONTNEEDNOCONSALLUPINTHEPURPLE1'SBIZNIZZ!!!! LoveGodcuzGodlovesU,
    -Alex aka. hitmeandrun

    Fine WB, release another Very Best Of..., why bother, most FAMS have a premium membership to the greatest club of all, NPGMC!!!!

    Come one, come all to the download ball.

    Can't wait till the 'Rainbow Children' get to have their say.

    Peace
    Trevor Guerin
    England

    dont care. if npg music club dont sell it i wont buy it!

    When I heard that a record company was releasing a "Greatest Hits" album by Prince I was reminded of why he had to change his name. Those guys are just about making money and Prince is about the music. I will never by another Prince album from the stores, old or new. If I can't get it directly from Prince I won't buy it. I love Prince and I'm down with whatever he wants to do, however he wants to do it.

    I saw his Celebration concert in Milwaukee on June 28 and I love him more now than I did 20 years ago. He's like fine wine, he gets better with age. You go boy!

    I love you Prince with all my heart.
    Patti D.

    Peace...

    We feel that Warner Bros. r just trying 2 cash in on The Funky 1's name (again). All they have r OLD Gems. 1nce again Coperate Amerikkka is Pimpin' of the Sweat & Blood of TRUE Cr8tors. Since they can't come up with a New Prince, they're tryin 2 Cash In on the TRUE 1.

    Prince's Music is a GIFT in a JUNGLE of ENTROPY & DISorder. The Famz/NPG should NOT purchase this or BURN this from some1 else. If we hold our Pockets & wait 4 The Rainbow Children & keep tuned in2 NPGMC the FUNK will stay where it belongs. With Us, The Children Of The Sun....

    FaithFully Yours..... Mr & Mrs. PurpleLove7 bka Qa'id Prince Ali & Barbara Ali

    Just like other classic artist like Al Green, James Brown, Jimi Hendrix. The list goes on. It gets hard to know what is a compilation and what was an album. Not for us Prince Fams but for generations to come. Re-package, resell, reap what they did not sow.

    agape

    OH PUHLEEEEZ! Isn't it obvious what's going on here already? WB refuses to give OR sell P his masters back. Knowing that most people agree he should at least be able to buy them back (at the least), they're attempting to downgrade the material by putting out meaningless drivel like this compilation, knowing it's not going to sell more than a few copies. Then they'll be able to turn around & say, "See? It doesn't matter anyway because no one's digging on Prince anymore. We couldn't even sell more than a handful of copies of a 'best of'." Never mind the fact that anyone who's remotely interested in this stuff ALREADY HAS IT! Too bad WB is run by people too bullheaded & full of themselves trying to prove a point that doesn't matter, instead of people who really care what the consumer & the artists they're working for think & feel.

    Mr. Black
    Tarboro, NC

    I feel that Warner bros. is just exercising their rights to be a**holes. What they are basically saying is: "We have your sh**, we own your sh**, and we can do whatever the hell we want to with it". I think the Prettyman should seriously consider taking legal action to retain ownership of his masters, ensuring the integrity of his music, his "children", once and for all. I am sure that somewhere in the legal community there exists a precedent that would help make this possible, and if not, let this be a precedent setting case that will help empower other artists who are suffering the same indignities!!!! Warner Bros. is nothing but a big "Pimp" , and I can't stand to see my brother being whored. There needs to be a change in corporate america where truth and fairness is the standard, not the option. Peace to you, my brother, and God's blessing upon you, so that you will have the strength to fignt the good fight. Seven generations from now, artists will be grateful that someone had the courage to make a stand. "IF YOU DON'T STAND FOR SOMETHING, YOU'LL FALL FOR ANYTHING"!!

    PEACE,
    ISIS G.

    This is quite a rip off if I don't say so myself. I already have all the songs on the album and is exsactly the same as the hits/b-sides. This makes me very angry. And once again W/B is ripping us off. I say don't by the album. Besides I know Prince will do something way better that will be worth are money.

    #1 "thou shalt not steal" - and that includes Time Warners.... (I would b thinkn KARMA - knockn)
    #2 Summed up about the cd in #1, however...the pictures for the cd (why would another one want to ever steal another man's soul) Pictures of people steal their soul...if you dont ask first or have permission...New Definition of (System BEAST in my book)>>> TIME WARNERS...how would you like it if (we the people) came to your towers and stole your Libraries and all the royalties in your house??? can U say make shift "tent"??? Well God provides and will surely take care of this....GOD "know"s...

    GODbliss ya Singmia~Arjuna (makeda ~b.u.)

    I think this is horrible? How is it that this brother can't make any money off his 'Very Best' I think we should all boycott the release. I would love to see a 'live concert' release. I went to the Detroit concert in June and it was off the hook. You all should release a concert album with the same songs from the 'Very Best' and blow the Warner release out the water.

    Ed Merriman - Detroit

    What's the point ? Prince is still the author of those recordings & will get money from the sales. I think it's a good idea to release a 1 CD best of, lots of non-prince fans will probably buy it because they'll find lots of hits for a reasonnable price & they may want to hear some other less known recordings. I won't buy it (.. If I find it on 2nd hand, I'll maybe do it) but I'm not concerned by this kind of release.

    Just about everyone I know is aware of the bitter past between Prince and WB, but how many of the average fans will realize that this greatest hits collection does not come from Prince? The recent, amazing Hit-N-Run tour (blown away at RubySkye, San Francisco!! and Aladdin Resort, Las Vegas!!) seems a natural segue to the WB hits collection, so I fear that many will think that Prince has simply extended his reminiscences from the 80's in the form of this CD. Isn't there an obvious link between the recent cancellation of the Hit-N-Run / Celebration Tour dates and the release of this CD?

    As a devoted student of Prince, I would welcome two developments: First, the release of a new studio CD with all of the recent NPG Club offerings (S&M Groove, Peace, Supercute, Mad, The Work, etc) to counter (and why not ride the coat-tails of) the WB release. This should include appropriate promotion of the new CD with performance videos and the tour we've all been waiting for. Second, a definitive statement from Prince regarding the WB release and it's relationship, if any, to the recent Hit-N-Run / Celebration Tour. This would go a long way to help those fans who were not able to experience this amazing tour to fully support his decision to cancel remaining dates.

    Until we are able to purchase a studio release, I have important advice for all NPG Music Club members. Burn the new tracks onto a CD, and take the music to places where you usually enjoy Prince, away from your computer. When I did this the music came alive, and it reaffirmed my belief that Prince has an enduring gift that continues to improve.

    Nibster

    What can I say? Which incompetent decided to release a single CD for a start, and did they pick the track listing by pulling names from a hat? We have already had the excellent 3-CD set a couple of years ago, which had a balanced track listing that didn't just contain singles, but also some exquisite album tracks and also new tracks. What is it with Warner? you had your chance and blew it with Prince, STOP TRYING TO EXPLOIT THE MAN WITH A TRAVESTY OF A GREATEST HITS CD LIKE THIS!!!!
    Cheers Steve

    Being a big Prince fan from like ' 79 I think it's a huge rip-off. I will not buy this CD and will encourage every1 I know to do the same. We gotta B educated consumers out there. If it's Prince's work and he don't endorse it, I don't no parts of it. It's just wrong.

    Lori D.
    Boston

    Hi friends,

    Just wanted to say, without being willing to hurt the person who made it: "What an ugly artwork!" I can't believe that is going to be the real cover! Well I'd say: "don't buy the album" either. See our brother live with the NPG and then you'll witness the very best of PRINCE.

    I believe in Holland, Europe fams are really in the mood for some live gigs by Prince and the NPG... since the World Tour is anounced.

    Show everybody the VERY BEST OF PRINCE!

    Peace and be Charmin'
    RobP
    The Netherlands

    ART RULES!!! COMMERCE RUINS!!!
    It is one thing for an artist to sell his creations to his audience and make a living. It is quite another thing for people who did not create the art to then claim ownership and sell it how they see fit forever. Support artist-run operations. They may not work like a big corporation, but isn't that a good thing?

    If u c da police, WARN A BROTHA!