Prince: Emancipation - Album Review (1996) - Part 1 (of 3)

[@laliprincemusic4916]

SOoooo Love this PF!!! I’m so thankful to be a part of the video. Thanks for pointing out this was the 1st album with covers. I didn’t know WB didn’t allow it. Appreciate getting new background info. This video is beautifully done. The scene transitions and photos you have inserted are Top Shelf!!

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks so much! It was a pleasure to have you too!

[@laliprincemusic4916]

I do love the covers. Becca by golly was an upgrade to the original for sure. He can make a smooth tune more romantic in a purple groove way. Looking forward to 2 & 3.

[@gabrielepetrocchi1690]

I love Emancipation! It's an "explosion" of creativity! It gets a bit of s**t from Prince fans but I don't care, I love diverse albums, cohesion is overrated 😁 Disc 1 has also one of the best 1-2-3 punches in Prince's discography (Jam of the Year, Right Back Here In My Arms, Somebody's Somebody). My favorite one is In This Bed I Scream though. Can't wait for Disc 3 (my absolute favorite).

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks Gabriele! The reviews are fun to do because I love the albums so much. And I agree, it is a bit of a 1-2-3 cheers!

[@PrincesFriend]

WATCH NEXT: Prince: Prince: Emancipation - Album Review (1996) - Part 2 (of 3) kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXW5cpukgrammtk

[@shakiracharriez9811]

I love your mini video that was cute. I love Emancipation. All the songs are so beautifully done. I love his emotions of all the songs that he displays. Thank you for that awesome review. Great job Prince's Friend. 👍👍👍💜💜💜

[@PrincesFriend]

Appreciate you!

[@bgavin5899]

Emancipation went into my CD player and stayed there for YEARS and was played constantly. This album is the most criminally overlooked album in his catalog.

[@PrincesFriend]

I STILL play it constantly. It’s An amazing album from beginning to end. Thanks for the comment.

[@garfieldharrison510]

Wow ,one of my favorite albums from Prince. Like the whimsical beginning leading up to the review. Emancipation 60 minutes each of the discs. I played that album so much. The Jam Of The Year was like opening up to his state of mind at the time. Didn't know that detail about him and performing covers. Record companies didn't trust more. He had no fillers in my opinion The eclectic nature of the album was brilliant. "Betcha By Golly Wow" was brilliant. I was surprised that he released a cover as the first single. "I Can't Make You Love Me". The way he covered that was also subliming. George Michael also covered the song that year as well back 96. How does one assess Prince's version against Mr. Michael's. I would be bias, but I enjoyed both versions. Once again, great review. Looking forward to the second disc coverage.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks for the comment! I’m glad I can add more knowledge to the Prince community. And your breakdown is really good. Seems like you’ve listened to this album quite a few times too, eh?

[@Thespeedrap]

Somebody's Somebody is my favorite even if you're famous and rich you can still be lonely and want someone to be with.

[@PrincesFriend]

Most definitely. Some would say ESPECIALLY if you're famous and rich.

[@johnreynolds5021]

The quality, depth, and overall production of your videos is getting better by the day! This review is great. Your work is appreciated. Thank you.

[@PrincesFriend]

And I appreciate you John. Compliments on the production mean a lot since I’ve actively been trying to make that better. It’s a wonderful album so wanted to do big things for it!

[@helenfountain5336]

I love Emanciption and Musicology. To be turthful I love all of Prince music. And I love Prince with all my heart. RIP brother until the big purple family will see you again.

[@PrincesFriend]

Two wonderful albums for sure!

[@sevensisters888]

Thanks for this review Prince Friend. The Emancipation album of 3 discs is a fabulous album. Your review of Disc one is riveting. I enjoyed your review immensely. Emancipation album is definitely one of my favourite Prince albums. Disc one is so smooth and Funky, a 1990s testament to timeless cool. Prince was way ahead of the competition as a musical creative genius. Disc one of the Emancipation triple album montage, whets the appetite and supremely sets the mood for discovery of the New Prince on a new journey in a fresh and exciting time in his life. Fabulous.

[@PrincesFriend]

Well said. And for some reason I never knew whet was spelled with an H. You learn something new every day, right?

[@sevensisters888]

@@PrincesFriend lol. thanks, whet meaning: 'a thing that stimulates appetite or desire'.. The English language is complex.. your productions also stimulate discussion, and focus, I like the way you de-construct.. Thanks again Prince Friend. Thanks from London England. You definitely Rock.. 😎

[@PrincesFriend]

Oh I know the definition, I just don’t think I’ve ever seen it written before lol

[@MandyWatts]

Great to see you back in the reviewing chair! This is a reminder of what an amazingly varied album this is. I agree there's not a dud on it. Can't wait for your take on discs 2 &3!

[@PrincesFriend]

I agree! It’s varied musically but the theme and story is solid. 2 next week, 3 the following. Trying to give them room to breathe. Cheers!

[@MichaelJonesJr]

That Song "Damned If I Do" Sounded Like a '90s TV Show Theme Song.

[@franceshampel4826]

LOVE Prince! I'm 53 years old, had his first album when I was 13 years old.....still relevant 40 years later 💖

[@StevieStitches]

"Damned If I Do" and "Right Back Here In My Arms" and "Somebody's Somebody" and "White Mansion" and "Mr. Happy" are my faves on this disc.

[@AH-yk4eb]

Hi PF, love the intro. Emancipation is an awesome album and it only gets better from here. My 5 yr old daughter loves Betcha By Golly Wow aka the “angel” song to her and watches the video 3-4 times a week. So great to know and hear and meaning behind each song. I cannot wait for disc 2.

[@PrincesFriend]

Aw that’s cute. My son likes Batdance most of all. Lol

[@AH-yk4eb]

Prince's Friend That’s awesome that your son likes his music. Like they always say start them young. She also loves his song Fury. She always says how amazing Prince’s music is.😊

[@Andregrindle]

Emancipation came out during the year I really got heavily into Prince. And by the time it dropped, I was caught up with all his music from before this. Some of my favorite songs on it come from the second and third discs.

[@PrincesFriend]

Totally!! Disc 1 is great but the other two really tie the album together

[@nancypatricia511]

Just finished watching. Wow! This is your greatest production. So well done visually and your comments so insightful. I have heard this music, though not often. Ready to study up some more. Great job!

[@PrincesFriend]

Definitely do that Nancy! You won’t be sorry when listening to Prince music. #studentofprince

[@evarene07]

Better known as “The Freedom Album”🙌🏽... one of my favorite besides “For You” , “Crystal Ball”...Jam of the Year!!! ( I’m still recuperating)...wonderful explanation of this “early memoir” of sorts told by Prince himself.

[@PrincesFriend]

Is it "better" known as the Freedom Album or just "also" known as the Freedom Album? I ask, because you're the first person I've ever heard call it that lol.

[@patricksteffes6962]

“White Mansion” follows the same narrative that I just read in Alan Light’s book on the making of “PR”, that of going to NY in the fall, trying to get a record deal, but only getting a publishing offer, and then going back to Minneapolis presumably in the winter. It fits with disc 1 being about the past, 👍🏻

[@qsolomon71]

Mr. Happy is my favorite on disc 1 lol and once again the way you explain the album, I must listen to it again; WONDERFUL INSIGHT!!! Thanks PF. Peace and Love FAM.

[@PrincesFriend]

I appreciate that. I’m always looking for the story and it’s plainly there if you are looking for it, but it everyone does. Definitely give it a new listen and enjoy the tale of Prince. #studentofprince

[@qsolomon71]

@@PrincesFriend Unfortunately musicality summons me first!! I'm terrible with lyrical content :(.

[@PrincesFriend]

Music first, meaning next. That’s how I do it too

[@martinbuckberry4539]

That intro had me in tears XD

[@PrincesFriend]

Oh yay! That was the goal! Glad you enjoyed it. Lol

[@liljanakosic3647]

Me 2. I loved it. My thoughts exactly. Just don't know how to put it in words. 💜💜💜 Love you P's friend.

[@PrincesFriend]

Right back at ya!

[@peacellove3384]

Great video. love all the songs on Emancipation. can't wait 4 part 2

[@PrincesFriend]

It’s gonna be great!

[@crawford76]

My favorite review so far! Love it 👍🏽

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks so much!

[@NewWorldRob]

White Mansion is the song of the entire album from the day I first heard it up to now. Similar to Beautiful Ones and Rasberry Beret, when you hear White Mansion it feels just like he's still here and never left😓

[@MarkoSalmela]

I really like your reviews because they quite often provide new perspective and insight to those Prince songs I have been listening for years.

[@PrincesFriend]

Oh thanks so much. That’s is one of my main goals. Thanks for the comment

[@ricobonifacio1095]

I've never listened to this in its whole form. Thank you for getting me interested in this. Thank you to spotify for having this because I Don't have the money or the outlet to get this easily.

[@DerekPool]

Great review. Can't wait for parts 2 and 3!

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks Derek! Very much appreciated.

[@valalyn1385]

Love this review! Can't wait for disc 2. I was well informed .Thanks! Yet it reminds me of how very much I miss him . Just taken too soon . Guess I'm just not over the pain of losing him yet. Some songs just make me sad we won't see him live ever again . I so looked forward to concerts and surprise releases. There will never be another like him . Glad your here to keep us learning and enjoying his legacy .

[@PrincesFriend]

I’m glad you’re here too. We’re all working through the pain together. Cheers!

[@kmo6176]

great review for a great CD - thanks for doing this. Look forward to 2 and 3!

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too! I’m having fun making these. :)

[@Resistance76]

I loved this video. Emancipation is one of my favorite albums and I can't wait for the next two disc reviews. :)

[@PrincesFriend]

Aw, thanks! Hopefully people are finding the skits funny and enhancing the reviews too. This is one of my faves as well, which is why I want to devote time to each one

[@kjb583]

Gr8 review!! The beginning and ending were really funny lolll. Prince gave us 2 more discs also😆

[@PrincesFriend]

Yep! I split the reviews up cause I feel they deserve individual love. And thanks for liking the skits. I’m trying to have more fun with the reviews

[@reginafris6822]

Emancipation is a luscious Prince smorgasbord💜. So psyched to hear your series of reviews, and the comments of all fam still enjoying it, too.🌟🌟🌟🌟Thank you!

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too! Thanks Regina!

[@dancewfaith]

I like the acting at the beginning. So funny.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks! I had a fun time with it and was lucky enough to have some volunteers lo

[@rockssolid7471]

Thank u 4 the great review... am so glad others luv this epic album 2. He didn't listen 2 naysayers because he knew he had fams who needed these tunes! Not like he didn't have loads more... Such a glorious, creative collection.

[@PrincesFriend]

And this is only part 1!

[@rockssolid7471]

@@PrincesFriend Unbelievable... looking forward to more!

[@artfull334]

Your Jam of the Year falsetto Not bad!!😂 Nice First Review of this TOTALLY AWESOME album🎶🎶 La la la Means I Love U was his best cover though lol😜...it’s so naughty..makes me smile

[@PrincesFriend]

I do dig that song too... gotta wait until Disc 3 for that one though. lol. And thanks for the encouragement! Trying to get better every day. Cheers!

[@holyrivs999]

Just Awesome on this project thus far ... the Emancipation era & shows was so Beautiful & Groovy with it' Freedom & all ... The shows here in the city of NY just took me 2 another place which many of us Within Understand what this means ... Thanks again 4 this thus far & I surely look 4ward 2 the rest of this Musical Review of this Gem that has been unmatched by many others within the industry ... So thanks once more 4 this & these ... [As well looking 4ward 2 when & as I can show off my Raspberry Beret Funk doll from Amazon] Roseland Ball Room NYC :-)

[@PrincesFriend]

Show it off! Cheers!

[@holyrivs999]

Surely I definitely shall as I can ... I know I had made a live vid on FB, I will see what I can extract from there in aide of this ... Thanks again on this bruh & be well ... :-)

[@dr.kingmessanger1196]

Correction Emancipation sold in the millions. Three disc count as 1 per disc

[@PrincesFriend]

You pushed your glasses up while you typed that huh? “Um, actually...” 😂

[@vintagechicc7724]

I have been waiting for this review by you for so long. Thank you so much for this amazing video 😁😁!!

[@PrincesFriend]

ThanK YOU! Disc 2 is coming next week!

[@ToniWellons]

Oh I couldn’t wait for this review! I was thinking about it every since I started listening to the album months back. This was a huge undertaking for Prince seeing as though he is now free from his label and now has complete control over his art and career. It took me and few days to get through the entire thing because it was 36 songs. I think he was the first to do this. I really loved disc 1. It really could’ve been it’s own album. The opener Jam of the Year has to be like my ultimate fave. It’s funky and carefree and was a chill way to start the project off and I adore Rosie Gaines! Somebody’s Somebody is a great R&B record and it does get me in my feelings. It reflected a good time in 90s r&b. Get Yo Groove On is a feel good track that does sound dated but it’s a new take in a good time. You don’t have to drink or overindulged to have a good time with your friends. Growing up being familiar with the Stylistics version, Betcha By Golly Wow was a good song but not great. It was definitely in Prince’s key, but he brought the song more to life with this cover. I thought that this would be in disc 2 but it fits well with disc 1. The video was so endearing and also emotional given what happened to them, it was also all love. White Mansion was a fast favorite for me because it was nice groove and I really like his tone on it. It’s an underrated track. When I heard Prince’s Cover of I Can’t Make U Love Me a few years ago, had I no idea it existed. No offense to Bonnie Rhiatt, but the covers of this song are better than the original in my opinion. Prince did his thang on this one. He turns a pleading song into a sexy and intriguing ballad. He Princeafied it for sure making it the best cover. Mr. Happy is another jam that I have on repeat. In this Bed I Scream was a good nod to Wendy and Lisa. He always loved and respected them. Wow, this side was a great way to start the album and it made me want to listen to more and more. Favorite tracks are: Jam of the Year, Somebody’s Somebody, Get Yo Groove On, Betcha By Golly Wow, We gets Up, White Mansion, I Can’t Make U You Love Me, Mr. Happy, In this Bed I Scream

[@jeanlock8556]

Fabulous review. One of my best albums, well I have so many bests, So well put together I just love how you tell the story of each song. Bloody well done, I loved it Prince's Friend.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thank Jean!

[@teresaalexander8560]

Absolutely love this review! You are so funny. As I was watching I was thinking you could be a great actor. I have this album and it's just awesome. Can't wait for part 2. If you really sit and listen to all these songs they are so beautiful.

[@cool1216]

C! I told u, u SHOULD do theater!! ✌🏼 Jeannine

[@PrincesFriend]

Hehehehe. I could likely act, but when would I find the time? Lol

[@melvlnrushll3426]

Love u firing everyone in your opening skit. Except for the FINE Apollonia look alike. Doggone it I would have hired her as my muse...as Morris Day says 2 Sexy!!!

[@PrincesFriend]

Heheheh. Nope... everyone had to go. Lol

[@nancypatricia511]

Great timing for me. I have just watched the doc Slave trade: How Prince Re-Made the Music Business and Mayte's book for the second time. This fits right in. When I saw you had just done this vid I was like "How long is it? Good. Three parts." Which is how all of this info, like the album, can be digested. Thanks! Funny opener, BTW.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks Nancy! I actually have Slave Trade but haven’t watched it. But yeah, definitely want to give each disc room to breathe. They are all great in their own right.

[@Annabee399]

This video is an excellent production and review. As well your vocals are impressive; the passion is evident. Keep it up PF.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks so much! I will! And o appreciate the nod to production. Been working hard at improving.

[@Annabee399]

@@PrincesFriend As PF, your artistic ability is in blossom. If there is ever a Prince bio, perhaps you can audition for a scene as him during the early years, or maybe a headshot. Considering you have a stable family life/ career.

[@pamela0673]

Love the introduction P.F!!! Prince's creativity has inspired you.😁

[@PrincesFriend]

It certainly has!

[@charlesbattle2516]

Excellent review. There are a few Prince songs that made me immediately stop what I was doing and say "damn that's good"! RBHIMA was one of them. That beat and those lyrics were masterful. Loved every song on disc 1 except the filler (Courtin Time). :) Looking forward 2 your thoughts on the next 2 discs

[@kameronking4321]

I'm here because of the album

[@PrincesFriend]

Aw, that’s cool! Tell us more. :)

[@kameronking4321]

Prince's Friend I never listen to it until they put it on Spotify and I love this era of his career besides the obvious Purple Rain era

[@PrincesFriend]

Oh I’m glad tour finally got to hear it then. It is truly one of the greats

[@sugarbum99]

😂 so cute at the end! I LOVE these pops! 💜

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too!

[@SeanXtopher]

I never found the story in this disc. I have to listen with new ears. In This Bed I Scream is the jam!

[@PrincesFriend]

Prince often told stories with his albums, which is why I'm always looking for them. It's a journey. #studentofprince

[@connors.8618]

My computer is one of my fav 90s prince cuts

[@PrincesFriend]

I dig that track too. That’s on disc 3. What’d you think of disc 1?

[@connors.8618]

I’m a fair weather 90s prince fan but I love “In This Bed Eye Scream.” Almost seems like he could have written it when he wrote “Good Love” then shelved it for a few years

[@makchung9755]

I can't with the intro 😂😂😂

[@PrincesFriend]

Just trying to have some fun with it. 😂😂😂 It helped.

[@NinjaDash360]

"Right back here in my arms" for me was like a religious experience first hearing it. If it were marketed as a single back then, I'm sure it would have been a hit. Either way it's hard not to let that one go.

[@PrincesFriend]

I think it could have been big too. Hmmmm. 💜

[@melvlnrushll3426]

Ok Bro probably after The Rainbow Children this is my favorite Prince project. *( I love all of Prince's music). Emancipation came out when I met my Queen Virginia Williams Rush. We listened, were amazed as musicians, and it provided the aura for many love sessions. I digress, still till this day in our Band "4SIGHT Music" Virginia is our lead vocalist and we do Betcha My Golly Wow, and I Can't Make U Love Me. Me being a lover of Jazz "Courtin Time is on of my favs. Your review of disc 1 was spot on. #MayULive2cTheDawn

[@PrincesFriend]

Woot! Thanks for sharing your story as well. It is a great first disc.

[@ethansloan]

Been waiting for this review. I've always loved 'Somebody's Somebody.' Probably in my top ten favorite Prince tracks. It reminds me a lot of 'Gotta Broken Heart Again' off Dirty Mind. Where that song sounds (to me, at least) like it's from the perspective of a young person who is still shocked and devastated by every broken heart, 'Somebody's Somebody' sounds like a man approaching middle age who has come to recognize a pattern of loneliness that has left them numb. Looking forward to discs 2 and 3. May U live 2 see The Dawn. p.s. You been losing weight? You're looking pretty trim.

[@PrincesFriend]

Love the analysis. You know I’m a fan of creating storylines lol. And yeah been losing a bit is weight. Thanks for noticing

[@Supernova464]

Cool review! And I love the beginning part where you “fire” everyone. That was hilarious 🤣 . I knew it’d be a cool album to listen to. And I also love the songs such as “Jam of the Year” “White Mansion”, and “Damned if I do”. And ifs a good thing that prince did his own thing by singing cover songs such as “I can’t make you love me” by Bonnie Raitt that the record label he was previously in won’t let him(don’t know why). “In this bed I scream” is also a good one when he dedicated to his band mate friends. And I’ll surely get this album if I can. And Thank so much for sharing this review. I can’t wait to share the other two discs of this album.😄👍🏻

[@michaelgirl1205]

Learning more about prince songs meanings

[@PrincesFriend]

That’s my job :)

[@apurpledayindecember9153]

Fun video! I think "Jam of the Year" and "In this Bed I Scream" are the strongest tracks on this disc. Also, ever since Captain from the Peach and Black Podcast said "Damned If I Do" sounds like the theme from 90210, I can't un-hear it. Still mad about that lol (but I still love the Latin outro).

[@PrincesFriend]

I’ll listen to it back to back to 90210 and see if I hear it. Thanks for the comment! Lol

[@ronnix23]

I've always wanted to ask you this question, but wanted to wait until this album review before I did. Here's your mission should you choose to accept it. You're a record executive and Prince has just given you these 36 songs. Your job is to cut it down to one 12 song album. Which songs make the cut?

[@PrincesFriend]

I actually have a video coming about this specifically. It’s hard but I did it and I’m gonna share it soon

[@Makavelirecordz6232]

Love the review. This album has always been one of my favorites.

[@PrincesFriend]

Mine too! And thanks!

[@yolandamcdade2260]

💜Awesome video!! Great job 💜

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks so much Yolanda!

[@lanalyons5206]

💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕 Ob boy! You are so informative and really Dig deep with your Reserch.I love the info. It so captures The man behind his Music that wr all wonder about. You are doing such a great service to Prince and his family Of purple soldiers. I know you work hard At your craft.You are just getting more refined with every episode! If it weren't For you, we'd have all the questions unanswered. And to top that off , you're ability to do tths iwith your own chanel Is going to tske you far! I am so interested In. How you inform Us I count the days Between each installment! Once again, you do a great Sertice or your followers! And by the way... Thank you to your Wife and family for Them giving up time with you to be here with us Your loyal follower, Lana Lyons 💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕💕

[@PrincesFriend]

Thank you for all that! And I also thank my wife for taking my kids away some weekends so I can work on videos. lol. I appreciate you all, as well. Without you, I'd have no reason to do these video. It'd still just be me alone in my room listening to Prince music, but with you all, I have a way to celebrate and enjoy with the community at large.

[@kristytucker9149]

First, I laughed when the video started with you outside. I said this is such a big video he had to meditate on it, lol, second , I loooove emancipation, all three disks are awesome, my favorite is disk two. From the first disk I love white mansion, betcha by golly wow, even though it makes me sad, the video is beautiful, jam of the year is the jam ( pun intended). I have a strong bond with somebody’s somebody, video is deep too. I can’t make u love me, makes you snap your fingers and go yesss! Say that prince. Mr. Happy 😆😆😆😆, prince always coming up different ways to sneak stuff. Lol at the firing at the beginning.

[@PrincesFriend]

It’s An amazing disc! And it’s just the beginning. Glad you’re digging the reviews so far. I have something but planned for disc 2 too!

[@darkghoulrecords]

Agree about Courtin Time. If your a true Prince friend there is no such thing as too much..he don't do filler.. All 3 Emancipation albums are outstanding!!

[@cinnamoncanela3665]

Amazing, funny very informative. Can't wait to see the next one.!

[@PrincesFriend]

Me either! Disc 2 is gonna be a rock of fun!

[@brotherchason]

Thank god u uploaded this

[@PrincesFriend]

Hehehehe. Been waiting awhile for it huh?

[@tesswonderful4194]

Hi. Here is 6 so far. I love ALL these songs. 1. Jam - perfect. Every instrument is crisp. I love when he incorporates jazz sounds. Cant keep still. It IS the jam! 2. Right Back - man, he was firm. In a nutshell, "I f'd up, you need space, but get you ass back here. I will wait. 3. Somebody - I think he was lonely a lot more than we know. He pulls in to that song. Wow! 4. Get Ur Groove - "Im usually working, no time for fun" but clubbing isnt it for him, though it works for others. I relate to the last part of this song. My fav club in DC did not serve alcohol, had a separate space for smoking on another floor. It was about the music and dancing - except the meat market part. Lol. Watch Fete de la Musique Live for this song. So much fun. 5. Courtin - He is so happy. According to Mayte its what he said to her. Its "courtin time".❤ I am a fan of the early Pointer Sisters who sang like this. This harmony is awesome. Upbeat, happy and fun. 6. Betcha - Just awesome. The song is awesome, but I watched the video.... SUMMARY SO FAR: Every song is a treat musically. Lots of hornz. So many emotions here that we share with him. Some of these 6 make me sad how lonely he was. But his music gave him life. "A pretty house doesnt make a home." Truthfully, I think thats all he ever wanted - a home. A wife, kids, real love, a home. A whole other discussion.

[@PrincesFriend]

Great breakdowns!

[@sperrotta91]

That's real. On a personal level, Disc 1 is Prince deciding he's ready to settle down, Disc 2 is finding 'the one' and consummating and Disc 3 is facing the challenges to marital and familial life in modern society.

[@PrincesFriend]

Yup! I summed it up as past, present, future, but that interpretation works just as well.

[@stevenmichael4990]

Another good Prince album but it's also a great example of a Prince album that needed an Editor, a co-Producer, a co-Mixer & someone else besides Prince to help choose the tracks, help differentiate the sound of each track so the songs don't all sound the same. Sometimes I think Prince is always trying to educate the average mainstream music loving public about his musical talents mastering different genres & styles instead of releasing the best tracks for whatever albums. Prince's albums, particularly in the '80's, were seamless & thematically arranged. His albums after the late 90's often felt like he was just releasing whatever songs for whatever albums. Prince seemed like he was all over the place with his albums. Please don't misunderstand me & get me wrong. I love "Emancipation". As a longtime Prince fan, I love any & all of his music. I'm speaking of Prince's work as a fan that deeply wants him to succeed & be understood by the general average music lover. Far too often, Prince is & has been misunderstood & unappreciated. Prince is So talented, it's a shame more music lovers don't get him, don't appreciate his work & don't truly dig his music. Prince can do it all & he has.

[@debbiechain1402]

I absolutely love this album

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too!

[@chj2]

Same here. To me, the bass line and beat of, "Courtin' Time" is reminiscent of, "Jack U Off", and, "Horny Toad".

[@GrooveMastaDreP]

What it is upon da biz Prince's friend, the 1st disc is absolutely awesome. I really like the majority of the songs on there including " betcha by golly wow". Puts a tear in my eye. Best cover version ever!!

[@PrincesFriend]

EVER!!! 💜💜

[@princelvisjackson88]

Good stuff brotha! Hopefully this will be reissued for the first time on vinyl too. It would be a massive l.p. set! Awesome work as always thanks! -Johnny

[@PrincesFriend]

Oh gosh. That’d be like 8 records right

[@princelvisjackson88]

Yea about 8 or 9! Hopefully we will see it one day but that may be a long shot tho 😭

[@arvycrayton8870]

Loved the review I did not know you were hiring for reviews. I would apply but u cut necks real quick. You are stretching out on the channel good stuff Sir. DISC 2 has the deep purple Concord Jams he talked about 4 sho...

[@PrincesFriend]

Yup! Disc 2 coming next week and I can’t wait!

[@arvycrayton8870]

@@PrincesFriend I think sex n da summer is his most complex song with so much meaning . The heart beat and saviour I play that at max volume -emale just goes head dint even get me started on Joint 2 Joint

[@chj2]

GREAT Review. One of my FAVORITE Prince/O(+> albums. My favorite cut (out of all of my faves) is WHITE MANSION. That is MY JAM! Wonder if he shot a video for that song and IF it is in the vault? Would be a perfect retrospective-especially for the tour at Paisley Park. Finally got up there 3 months and change ago and HAD A BALL! Wish I could have gone when he was alive. Went to the Jam Of The Year Tour in '97 and also saw him in 2004 for the Musicology Tour. So, Bro. E, did you go to Paisley Park when Prince was alive? Curious. Thx so much. Peace & Be Wild.

[@hey.miklas3589]

My favorite part of ,in this bed i scream’ is when prince screams together with the guitar

[@PrincesFriend]

I live musical duels!

[@santelder]

Great review :)

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks!

[@lauracolon3511]

This album was probably my favorite with Musicology next.... definitely top 3. Each disc had jams. My favorite cover ever in "I can't make u love me". Just a well put together album, period

[@PrincesFriend]

Agreed. All three are amazing!

[@strawberrymind1839]

PF have you seen the notes inside #3 for Human Body? He says “ The year was 2020, and in a club called Love 4 One Another - students dance to the heartbeat of the drum” What if someone opened a Love 4 One Another club in 2020? That’d be awesome

[@PrincesFriend]

That’s be dope

[@christophertracy383]

I remember Prince saying that this was the album he was born 2 make. It was 2 long 4 my taste and should have been a double album. The covers weren't necessary.

[@seand67]

Love my original Emancipation box set....truly epic release back in the day for a great price

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too! 💜💜

[@majisstyxavier8994]

There are actually 3 Covers on this set : Betcha By Golly, Wow ... 👁 Can't Make U Love Me & One Of Us. 💜💜💜 Keep up the great work, Friend. O(+>... make that 4 : + LA LA MEANS 👁💜U .

[@teresaalexander8560]

So true lol! Your awesome love everything you do. Thanks for putting a smile on my face today. Back to work time to pick up the kid's and take them home. Have a great day.

[@PrincesFriend]

Work hard and then play!

[@aaronscott5882]

In every way, this is an excellent review, and this video has funny and great production values! 👍🏽☮️✌🏾

[@PrincesFriend]

I appreciate that Aaron. I’ve been trying to get more creative and I’m glad it shows. Cheers!

[@aaronscott5882]

@@PrincesFriend Your creativity is flowing very nicely! :)

[@thejoojooman6538]

Easily 1 of Prince' best albums. Betcha By Golly Wow is the weakest track on this disc IMO, & that is still an 8/10. Courtin' Time shares similar musical traits with Twelve from the Madhouse 16 album. I love this album in so many ways. By the way, who is Lolly? I think I love her.

[@PrincesFriend]

Lali is a subscriber like you! She pretty awesome. And yeah, this disc is a amazing. Cheers!

[@SherrieSherrieSherrie]

Wasn’t expecting that, at all, PF 🤣 lol Cool 💜 great review and break down. This was a pivotal time in Prince’s life and the music, while subjective, reflected that IMO. Very good job, sir 😊 While I like most, my fave is disc 2, which is next so I’ll be excited to see! Just a word of caution to be cautious of fire ants whilst sitting on the ground! Jk

[@PrincesFriend]

Hehehhehe. I trust my backyard so no fire ants lol 🔥

[@tonydeltablues]

Prince's Friend.....I love your channel.......... You're fired!

[@PrincesFriend]

HAHAHAHAHAHA!

[@tonydeltablues]

@@PrincesFriend :-)

[@marciaterlau7994]

Really love Emancipation. Lot's of cool songs. Love your beginning getting rid of folks.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks Marcia! Emancipation is amazing!

[@RighteousBrother]

This should be great, I've tried and tried to get into this album but I haven't managed it. Maybe this review will inspire me to try again.

[@PrincesFriend]

I’m hoping it will!

[@cindraroach6253]

This is an awesome cd loved it 👍💜💜

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too!

[@sperrotta91]

Lately I feel like every time I comment it's something negative but I wouldn't weigh in at all if I didn't think your videos were worth watching! I'm also curious to see what other Prince fans think! Anyway, I have genuinely tried with Emancipation over the years but I just can't warm to it as a whole. I think there are some great stretches and a few highly successful genre fusions but I really believe Prince was capable of better... Disc 1 is actually the worst offender for me. The highlights are undeniable; Somebody's Somebody is wistful, sophisticated r&b plushness and Betcha by Golly Wow! is simply gorgeous (no matter what Rick James says). The lowlights are maddening; Right Back Here in My Arms is rote new jack swing and Get Yo Groove On drowns a great synth loop with clunky, saccharine programmed horns and strings. While the album's sounds evince a keen (if belated) ear for the then contemporary music scene, I think some of Prince's arrangements and production choices reflect his growing isolation from it. It's one of his oddest albums in that it's situated almost exactly between trendy pop/rock and unfettered, highly individual craftsmanship. While Emancipation is hailed as an expression of complete artistic and creative freedom, Prince definitely wanted to test the commercial waters with it; sometimes to the detriment of the material... What makes Emancipation mostly worth the trouble is that Prince was still a formidable idea man. It's an absorbing and rewarding work conceptually, in spite of some poor sequencing here and there

[@PrincesFriend]

Totally share your thoughts. All points of view are accepted even if we don’t agree. Right back here In my arms is likely my lesser favorite on the disc, but get yo groove on is like my favorite, you I was agreeing and then I had to go “no way!” But strangely, I’m the odd one out here, not you. Most others I’ve talked to talk about Emancipation being full of filler and stuff like that. I disagree, but it guess it just depends on who you ask. Cheers!

[@sperrotta91]

If it's any consolation, I like the second half of Get Yo Groove On! Funnily enough, most Prince songs I dislike actually tend to have some sort of redeeming feature - usually a middle eight or instrumental section... I hope you announce the results of the poll for each disc. I'm very with the people on that one!

[@jackielaversa4191]

This was so cool! My fav album!

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks Jackie!

[@ryowastaken]

Like the girl doing the oh that's dog from the movie star outro😂😂😂😂

[@PrincesFriend]

Totally! Good call back

[@princerogersnelson5166]

He must have had the song 'Jam of the year' [or the basic parts at least] because the song is playing in the background of the 1986 song 'Movie Star'

[@PrincesFriend]

I just listened and I don’t hear it. Hmmmm

[@princerogersnelson5166]

@@PrincesFriend Here right at the start, kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6OrlmqvntOlbpI

[@PrincesFriend]

Ah, i hear what you're talking a bout now. That was actually the addition to the track on Crystal. If you listen to earlier demos of the song, that beginning part isn't there.

[@princerogersnelson5166]

@@PrincesFriend oh ok' I never knew that, I thought it was always there since the only version I had was that on Crystal Ball' but thanks for the correction;)x

[@PrincesFriend]

No problem! Being anal retentive is what I live for. hahahaha!

[@cheesefinnegan]

Glad you kept these reviews up. I was doing reviews of Prince's albums on my blog rogerhavarti.com, but I've recently been stuck on this one.

[@PrincesFriend]

Yup! Been doing this for years now

[@myberetta2002]

Absolutely great review. Eye love all 3 discs. Of course eye love every song Prince ever did.

[@PrincesFriend]

He was pretty great huh?

[@myberetta2002]

Eye miss him so much

[@PrincesFriend]

As do we all. We’re here for you.

[@ricobonifacio1095]

I just found the beautiful experience ep ( the most beautiful girl in the world remixes, reimaginings, instrumentals and the the original song)that i forgot I had and somehow it still burnt to my computer. I'm happy because its not available on the gold experience album on spotify.

[@PrincesFriend]

That’s a wonderful EP. be sure to check out my review of that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pJO6qoucfq-ChMk

[@ricobonifacio1095]

Thank you I will do that.

[@cool1216]

1st off, I have to tell u that this video went by so fast I was like what WHAT?? it's over already?? Daaammmnnn! lol I LOVED your intro! And I LOVE this album !! I love Bonnie Raitt but, when I heard this cover, I was blown away !! Excellent song for an extraordinary voice! Now I'm fired up....lol but that's a good thing! So, I'm REALLY trying to get to Celebration but Idk about the cash, ya know?? I already have a trip booked for May and My choir's domestic tour is in August in D.C. Going would be the best 50th bday present EVER! I think u said u blocked rooms @ the Moxy?? Can u tell me the rate they gave u? Just 4 myself, if I go, I'm looking at about 1,000.00$$ and that's not including food or any "fun extras!" wink wink..lol Anyway enough of me rambling lol..oh, btw I'm sorry u couldn't "fire" me! I'm STILL tryna get over this URI! I sound like a bass vs a high soprano right now! lol ok- i'm gonna stop now! Thx again 4 such an awesome review PF!! 💜💜🙏🏼🙏🏼✌🏼✌🏼 JEANNINE

[@PrincesFriend]

Time does fly. For me too. Though when it’s all said and done, it’ll likely be almost a whole hour review. Phew

[@PrincesFriend]

Details for the hotel are in my video about that. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXvWd4J-ZZ6fZ68

[@FunkoBoys]

Wow loved this review haha funny beginning 😁😁

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks so much! I appreciate the comment!

[@DJ-vu9lx]

Lali your qualifications are... Not is. Did you buy your degree?

[@PrincesFriend]

D J I assume there’s a reason for being a jerk. Feel free to elaborate.

[@FunkoBoys]

Prince's Friend Haters gonna hate haha

[@melvlnrushll3426]

Looking forward to disc 2

[@PrincesFriend]

Me too!

[@dancerjack1814]

Emancipation... what an Opus... I mean... OMG. As you go forward with these, give some thought to what I asked you about a 1-disc version. Like I've said before, 1991-1996 is when I went crazy for Prince. Ever since, I have bought everything sight unseen. And I have to admit I started getting a bit perturbed when he kept releasing albums with 35 discs in them. It's like, "Damn, Prince. I'm a fucking grad student. Calm the hell down, and spend more than 20 minutes on these albums." Because frankly, I started getting a bit upset. I found Crystal Ball interesting, but not compelling. I love New Power Soul, but Rave didn't move me as a whole at the time (though, there are some monster jams on it, and I need to go back and try that one again now that I'm not overwhelmed with school work). I found Rainbow totally unlistenable, and although I still have it, I've never listened to again since the day I got it (but perhaps I should try that one again, too?). With Musicology I fell back in love, and that tour was amazing. 3121 is also super top notch. The years after were hit or miss for me, but then Art Official Age and Hit n Run 1 & 2 were all excellent, and I'm glad his run ended with work that was effervescent and really, really happy.

[@PrincesFriend]

Thanks for sharing!! We all have our own journeys through his music. I hope when I get to those albums I can help you appreciate them more

[@kennycrockett8202]

Emancipation, was and still is the classic

[@PrincesFriend]

Timeless

[@dancewfaith]

Wow your singing is good too lol

[@PrincesFriend]

Aw shucks. ☺️