History of "1999" by Prince
"1999" is a song by Prince, released as the title track of his fifth album in 1982. The song is notable for its apocalyptic theme, which contrasts with its upbeat and danceable rhythm. "1999" became one of Prince's signature songs and was a top-ten hit in the US.
Interesting Facts:
Apocalyptic Party Anthem: The lyrics describe a party on the eve of the apocalypse, capturing the anxiety and hedonism of the Cold War era.
Vocals: The song features lead vocals from Prince and his band members Dez Dickerson, Lisa Coleman, and Jill Jones.
Music Video: The music video was one of the first by an African American artist to receive heavy rotation on MTV.
Re-release Success: The song was re-released in 1998 and again became a hit, charting in multiple countries as the year 1999 approached.
Did You Know?
Backward Message: The song contains a backward message. When played in reverse, Prince can be heard saying, "Hello, how are you? I'm fine because I know that the Lord is coming soon."
Inspiration: Prince was inspired to write "1999" after listening to the song "Monday, Monday" by The Mamas & the Papas.
Cultural Impact: The song has been covered and referenced by numerous artists and remains a popular anthem for New Year's Eve celebrations.
"1999" showcases Prince's ability to blend thought-provoking themes with infectious melodies, solidifying his legacy as a musical innovator.