On The Record: Prince - The Black Album

This week at Heathen Records, we delve into the captivating tale of Prince's "The Black Album." Officially untitled and meant for release in 1987, it was never distributed as intended due to Prince's last-minute decision to halt its release. He cited a spiritual epiphany, claiming the album was evil, which led to its recall. This decision not only fueled the album’s mythos but also made it one of the most bootlegged albums in music history.

A few original pressings that escaped destruction before the official recall have since surfaced, turning into highly sought-after collectibles. The rarity of these copies led to record-breaking sales, with one original 1987 pressing selling for over $42,000 at auction, making it one of the most expensive records ever sold. In 1994, Warner Bros. released "The Black Album" officially, but it's the tales of those original pressings that continue to captivate the imagination of collectors.

However, the high value and demand for the original pressings have also given rise to a number of fraudulent copies. Unscrupulous sellers have attempted to pass off later or bootlegged versions as original 1987 pressings, often fooling even seasoned collectors. Buyers should be extremely cautious and consider expert authentication when purchasing.

Musically, "The Black Album" showcases Prince in a funkier, more aggressive tone than the poppier psychedelia of "Sign O' the Times." With tracks like "Le Grind" and "Cindy C.," Prince explores his musical boundaries, making this album a testament to his ever-evolving artistry.

At Heathen Records, we cherish the allure of "The Black Album" not just for its music but also for its unique place in the annals of music history. It remains a highly prized item among collectors, particularly those original pressings that remind us of Prince's unpredictable genius.

Discover this and other intriguing pieces of music history at Heathen Records!