On this day in music history: July 7, 1984 - “When Doves Cry” by Prince hits #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for 5 weeks, also topping the R&B singles chart for 8 weeks on June 30, 1984. Written and produced by Prince, it is the first pop and second R&B chart topper for the virtuoso singer, songwriter, and musician from Minneapolis, MN. After principal photography on his first film “Purple Rain” is completed, director Albert Magnoli will ask Prince to write another song for the film to underscore a montage sequence describing the vibe that he’s looking for. Stating “that it’s about your parents and about loss and redemption”. Prince will say “OK”, and come back the next day with not one but two songs that he feels will suit the director’s request. The two will settle on “When Doves Cry”, and Prince will go to work on it immediately. Prince will enter Sunset Sound in Hollywood, CA, recording and mixing the track in a single thirty six hour long session. Released on May 16, 1984, 10 weeks ahead of the films’ July 27, 1984 opening date, the record is an instant smash. Entering the Hot 100 at #57 on June 2, 1984, it will streak to the top of the chart five weeks later. By the time the single drops off the charts it will have sold over three million copies in the US alone, making “When Doves Cry” the top selling single of 1984. The single is backed with the non-LP B-side “17 Days” (full title: “17 Days (the rain will come down, then U will have 2 choose. If U believe, look 2 the dawn and U shall never lose.)”). Originally intended for Apollonia 6’s album, Prince will keep the track for himself, becoming a firm fan favorite. “When Doves Cry” is certified Platinum in the US by the RIAA.
Posted on: Tue, 08 Jul 2014 00:55:40 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015