prince vault the versace experience | Free The Music

Prince's vault, a legendary repository of unreleased music, has become synonymous with tantalizing glimpses into the creative genius of one of the most prolific artists of the 20th century. Amongst the many treasures rumored to reside within those hallowed halls, "The Versace Experience - Prelude 2 Gold" stands out as a particularly intriguing and enigmatic piece of Prince history. More than just a collection of songs, it's a snapshot of a specific moment in time, a glimpse into Prince's experimental spirit, and a testament to his ever-evolving artistry. This article delves deep into "The Versace Experience," exploring its tracklist, credits (where available), its journey from a promotional cassette to a highly sought-after collector's item, and its significance within the broader context of Prince's career. We'll also navigate the various names and titles associated with this project, including "The VERSACE Experience PRELUDE 2 GOLD," "The Artist (Formerly Known As Prince) – The Versace Experience," and "The Versace Experience (Prelude 2 Gold) by Prince," unraveling the complexities surrounding its legacy.

The Genesis of Glam: A Versace Fashion Show and a Golden Prelude

The story of "The Versace Experience - Prelude 2 Gold" begins in the summer of 1995. Prince, then operating under the moniker The Artist Formerly Known As Prince (often stylized as an unpronounceable symbol), was invited to provide the music for Gianni Versace's runway show during Paris Fashion Week. This was a period of intense creative output for Prince, fueled by his ongoing battle with Warner Bros. Records over artistic control. He saw the fashion show as an opportunity to showcase new material and experiment with a different format.

The resulting cassette, "The Versace Experience - Prelude 2 Gold," was not a meticulously crafted album in the traditional sense. Instead, it was a mixtape, a collection of snippets, remixes, and unreleased tracks intended to create a specific atmosphere and vibe. It was distributed to attendees of the Versace show, making it an instant rarity and a coveted piece of Prince memorabilia.

Unpacking the Tracklist: A Kaleidoscope of Sound

The tracklist of "The Versace Experience - Prelude 2 Gold" is a fascinating mix of familiar and obscure. While some tracks would later surface on official releases, others remain exclusive to this cassette, adding to its allure. Here's a breakdown of the known tracks and their significance:

1. Pussy Control (Oakenfold Mix): This is a high-energy remix of a track that would eventually appear on Prince's 1996 album, *Chaos and Disorder*. The Oakenfold Mix, however, is unique to this cassette and offers a different perspective on the song's raw power. It's a prime example of Prince's willingness to explore different genres and collaborate with outside producers.

2. Get Wild (LP Version): This is the standard album version of "Get Wild," another track from *Chaos and Disorder*. Its inclusion on the cassette likely served to promote the upcoming album.

3. Eye Hate U (Remix): This remix of the emotionally charged ballad "Eye Hate U," originally from the *Gold Experience* album, offers a more danceable and upbeat interpretation of the song. The remix highlights Prince's ability to transform even his most introspective material into something energetic and engaging.

4. 319 (Remix): Another remix from *The Gold Experience*, this version of "319" features a more pronounced electronic element and a faster tempo. It's a testament to Prince's constant experimentation with sound and his desire to push the boundaries of his music.

5. Gold (LP Edit): This is an edited version of the title track from *The Gold Experience*. The edit likely served to make the song more concise and radio-friendly, although it's debatable whether the epic sweep of the original needed trimming.prince vault the versace experience

6. Rock N Roll Is Alive! (Radio Edit): This controversial track, a direct response to Lenny Kravitz's "Rock and Roll Is Dead," is a fierce defense of rock music and a declaration of Prince's own enduring relevance. The radio edit is a shorter version of the original, but its message remains potent.

7. Endorphinmachine (Golden Parachute Mix): This remix of "Endorphinmachine" from *The Gold Experience* is one of the most sought-after tracks on the cassette. The "Golden Parachute Mix" is exclusive to "The Versace Experience" and offers a unique and psychedelic take on the song. It's a prime example of the experimental and adventurous nature of Prince's music during this period.

8. Certainly (House Mix): This house-infused remix of "Certainly," another track from *The Gold Experience*, demonstrates Prince's willingness to embrace different genres and incorporate them into his own unique sound.

9. Papa (aka Papa Was a Rolling Stone): This is a cover of The Temptations' classic song, "Papa Was a Rolling Stone." Prince's version is a funky and soulful interpretation that showcases his versatility as a musician and vocalist.