In the year 1999, Prince expressed his thoughts regarding the rise of digital audio workstation (DAW) musicians and producers, stating that a specific young individual with a personal computer in his bedroom was unable to play traditional instruments.
In the year 1999, Prince released the album Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic, a musical odyssey that showcased his creative genius and willingness to collaborate with a diverse range of artists. One such collaboration was with Maceo Parker, a renowned jazz and funk musician, known for his collaborations with artists like James Brown, Ray Charles, and, of course, Prince.
Maceo Parker's contribution to Partyman, one of the standout tracks on the album, demonstrated his ability to adapt to different musical styles and genres. The saxophonist, who was one of the guests on the track, seemed to have particularly impressed Prince, as he expressed his excitement about Maceo's contribution.
Prince's interview with the DJ/production duo Soulwax, shared on Soulwax.info, offered an insight into his musical mindset. During the interview, he expressed his views on the changing landscape of music, particularly with the rise of in-the-box production and the increasing power of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). He viewed himself as pushing back against the technological tide, emphasising the importance of 'real music by real musicians'.
Prince was also asked about how he kept things interesting, given the competition from 'any kid with a DAW in their bedroom'. He responded by stating that while the kid with the DAW in the bedroom could make sounds and get repetition, they lacked the ability to speak the language of music.
Maceo Parker's contributions to music have earned him a significant following and a place in the annals of jazz and funk history. His versatility and skill as a saxophonist have been showcased in numerous collaborations, including his work with Prince on Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic.
The album, which also featured guest appearances from artists like Sheryl Crow, Gwen Stefani, Chuck D, Eve, and Ani DiFranco, is a testament to Prince's innovative approach to music and his willingness to push the boundaries of his own musical style. One of the highlights of the album is a hidden track, Prettyman, where Prince breaks away from the R&B-pop-soul conventions of the album and adopts a style reminiscent of James Brown.
Prince was once praised by Roger Linn for his creative use of the LM-1 drum machine, a testament to his innovative approach to music technology. He also incorporated synths, drum machines, and samplers into his records, further demonstrating his commitment to exploring new sounds.
In conclusion, Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic serves as a reminder of Prince's musical brilliance and his willingness to collaborate with a diverse range of artists. Maceo Parker's contribution to the album, particularly on Partyman, showcases his ability to adapt to different musical styles and genres, solidifying his place as one of the most respected and influential musicians in the jazz and funk genres.