Offering an inside look into the multi-generational career of a funk-pop superstar, this definitive, exciting study of Prince's musical catalog grants behind-the-scenes access to the writing and recording details behind such massively successful albums as 1999, Diamonds and Pearls, and Purple Rain. From the Purple One's preteen mastery of the piano and guitar to his proficiency with 31 musical instruments at the time of his record deal--when he was merely 19--and proceeding through the 1980s when he was one of the biggest stars on the planet, this retrospective features interviews with former band members, studio engineers, and childhood friends to form the most complete document of Prince's creative endeavors to date. The full stories behind such hit songs as "Little Red Corvette," "When Doves Cry," and "Kiss" are included, plus additional facts to help round out this fascinating exploration into the exciting, influential, and sexualized hybrid of rock, pop, and funk that can be exclusively attributed to the artist known as Prince.