Prince
Inside the Music and the Masks

Quotes

“Capturing the essence of a constantly evolving artist like the massively successful Prince is no easy task, but music journalist and biographer Ro’s look at the man behind the curtain is a worthy effort…This solid biography gives fans a peek at a complicated talent.” Publishers Weekly

“Did ten years of researching the enigmatic Prince pay off? You bet…It’s surprising that nobody has delivered a noteworthy Prince bio—until now. Veteran journalist Ro spent a decade researching this book—which shouldn’t surprise Prince’s fans, as the man is notoriously private—and it was worth it, as he was able to get vital information, opinions, and anecdotes from Prince’s close and not-so-close associates…The author has an obvious affection for Prince’s work, but he maintains enough objectivity to be credible. An energetic, detailed balance of reportage and criticism about an icon of his era.” Kirkus Reviews

“Prince Rogers Nelson’s three decades in the music business make for an original tale in this era of corporate, American Idol-style pop stars. His rise and fall and rise is that of an artist who has followed his own path, sometimes infuriatingly so. Between the phenomenal success of 1984’s Purple Rain and 2010’s Dreamer, Prince has earned thirty-three Grammy nominations…[and was] listed in Time magazine’s 2010 annual ranking of the ‘100 Most Influential People in the World’…Ro here relies heavily on previously published material…but Ro’s approach and information is different enough to warrant a purchase.” Library Journal

“Pop-music-star Prince is intensely private, so it is not surprising that he was not interviewed for this biography. Nevertheless, Ro came up with a myriad of details about Prince’s life and career by tapping former band members, public records, and other sources. Willis enunciates the text with precision…[and] clarity.” Booklist (audio review)