Everyone knows Prince as a prolific hitmaker who cranked out some of the most commercially successful songs in the 1980s. But what many people don’t know is that the legendary artist was also responsible for a slew of other artists’ hits.
In celebration of Prince’s songwriting skills—and generosity—his estate has released a 15-track album titled Originals. The album is made up of 15 songs Prince originally recorded before handing off to his fellow artists. These hits include “Manic Monday” (The Bangles), “Nothing Compares 2 U” (The Family/Sinéad O’Connor), and “The Glamorous Life” (Sheila E.).
“Prince led the way, for artistic freedom, for ownership. He's one of the bravest people I can think of in the industry,” JAY-Z said in a press release. “He trusted us, not just me, but TIDAL, to continue his fight. Trying to help further that legacy through his music is an honor we couldn't pass up as an organization dedicated to empowering artists. This gives his true fans that peek behind the curtain.”
As previously reported, the album was curated by JAY-Z and Troy Carter on behalf of the Prince Estate.
Originals was released as a Tidal exclusive on Friday, coinciding with what would’ve been Prince’s 61st birthday. The album will hit stores and other platforms June 21, with the vinyl version expected to drop in July.
