Prince has released his new single The Breakdown on iTunes following news of the hitmaker re-signing with former label Warner Bros. after 18 years. Prince spoke to late night host Arsenio Hall in March calling The Breakdown his favorite song to play. In addition to the new single, the two have agreed to release a deluxe 30th edition of iconic album Purple Rain, along with unheard music from peak-era Prince.
“A brand-new studio album is on the way and both Warner Bros. Records and Eye are quite pleased with the results of the negotiations and look forward to a fruitful working relationship,” Prince said in a statement.
For those that may not remember, in 1993 Prince waged one of the biggest battles in music history against former label Warner Brothers, taking it as far as writing the word slave during his public appearances and changing his name to a symbol. During his time on the label, he released popular music Purple Rain, 1999, and Diamonds and Pearls. The exclusive partnership proves beneficial for Prince who will regain control over his catalog of music and for fans eager to hear previously finished unreleased songs. Finally, bootleg copies of demos, outtakes and rarities of music that has circulated underground may come to light.
“Everyone at Warner Bros Records is delighted to be working with Prince once again; he is one of the world’s biggest stars and a truly unique talent,” said the label’s chairman and CEO, Cameron Strang. Stang didn’t release dates for an album or the release of rumored album Plectrumelectrum.
The legendary musician continues working with his current band 3rdEyeGirl. He performed a series of surprise dates overseas the beginning of the year. Over the summer, Prince will headline the 20th anniversary of Essence Music Festival in New Orleans.