A Retrospective Look at Prince's Lovesexy

As a substitute for the Black Album, we take a look at Prince's Lovesexy.

On the 10th of May, 1988, Prince unveiled his tenth studio record, Lovesexy. It was a radiant, energetic compilation that displayed the artist's spirited, lively demeanor. However, the album emerged from a chaotic epoch in Prince's career, during which he decided to abandon an entire body of work known as The Black Album.

Lovesexy materialized from the remnants of The Black Album. Prince initially conceived this unreleased work as a grittier, funk-filled journey. But Prince had a significant change of heart following a profound spiritual revelation, rumored to be spurred by a disturbing encounter with Ecstasy. He perceived the album as malevolent, abruptly pulling it from its planned launch and ordering its obliteration. As a result, The Black Album became one of the most illicitly duplicated albums of its time.

Nevertheless, Prince, the indefatigable artist, bounced back quickly. Gathering his touring ensemble from the preceding album Sign O’ the Times—who would later evolve into The New Power Generation—he plunged into a frenzied two-month recording session from December 1987 to January 1988. The outcome was Lovesexy, an album drenched in upbeat pop, completely departing from its doomed precursor.

The album's structure was distinctive, with the CD version formatted as a solitary track. This unorthodox decision underlined Prince's desire for audiences to experience Lovesexy as a complete, integrated artistic expression rather than a collection of separate tracks.

The record begins with “Eye No,” an enthralling fusion of pop and gospel, brimming with the vigor of a full band performance. The lyrics elucidate Prince's rationale for discarding The Black Album and set the record's primary narratives: the clash between good and evil and dismissing all negative influences. The song's apex boldly poses a choice between these opposing forces to the listeners.

Another memorable song, “Alphabet St,” shines brightly. This buoyant, flippant track enchants with a lively drum rhythm, a rhythmic guitar motif, and whimsical lyrics. Its corresponding music video even contained a concealed message discouraging the acquisition of The Black Album.

The five-minute funk/rock drama "Glam Slam" exhibits Prince's eccentric approach to mainstream pop. At the same time, "Anna Stesia," a gospel dirge, addresses feelings of solitude and the quest for a superior purpose. The song transitions exquisitely from gloom to light, symbolizing the shift from desolation to optimism.

"Dance On" offers a continuous societal critique reminiscent of Sign O’ the Times, whereas "LoveSexy" intertwines spiritual and sensual ecstasy, suggesting they can coexist peacefully. "I Wish U Heaven" stands out, with a lush melody and harmonies that mask its short duration.

The album wraps up with "Positivity," a blend of contemporary and mystical elements that promotes virtuous living and optimistic thinking. It mirrors the album's introductory track, underscoring the persistent struggle between good and evil.

While it may not have achieved the commercial success of Sign O’ the Times or Batman, Lovesexy sparkles uniquely. The record is a daring personification of Prince's cheerful, nonchalant side, pulsating with glowing positivity. It mirrors an artist who was willing to grapple with his inner darkness, only to emerge into the light with a rejuvenated spirit and a refreshed sound. Therefore, Lovesexy is distinguished and significant in Prince's discography — a tribute to the artist's resilience, creativity, and spiritual evolution.