Publication: The Denver Post [US]
Date: January 29, 1999
Section: Weekend
Page Number(S): E-25
Length: 523 Words
Title: "It's Never Too Late For '1999'"
Written By: G. Brown

Prince made "1999" popular back in 1982. However, he officially ended his longtime relationship with Warner Bros. Records three years ago, and the label still owns the rights to the actual "1999" masters. Warner Bros. has been reservicing the original song to radio in hopes that it will become a hit all over again (it reached No.27 on Billboard's Top 40 Tracks chart after New Year's).

Now the Artist (formerly known as the Artist Formerly Known as Prince) is reclaiming the song. As Prince & the Revolution, he's recorded "1999 - The New Master" - in stores Tuesday, it's also available at his Web order outlet (www.1800newfunk.com) and 1-800-NEW-FUNK (that's 1-800- 639-3865) phone.

Of course, he's had to change a few things. The EP consists of seven new takes on "1999," billed as "re-creations of the cherished classic" - there are even a cappella and spoken-word versions.

According to a statement from the Artist, the famous tune "takes on a more tribal feel," and the mixes are bolstered by contributions from guests like rapper Doug E. Fresh and singer Rosie Gaines.

It's sure nice to hear Larry Graham, who literally invented modern funk bass playing with Sly & the Family Stone.