On this day April 22, 1985, Prince and the Revolution released their seventh studio album Around the World in a Day. Coming off the massive success of Purple Rain, Prince surprised fans by shifting to a more psychedelic and experimental sound that caught many off guard but still reached number 1 on the US Billboard 200. The album also hit number 1 in Sweden and the Netherlands.
The lead single Raspberry Beret became one of Prince’s most memorable tracks, blending nostalgic storytelling with a playful melody. The album pulled from 60s influences, adding new textures and colors to his evolving sound.
There was no traditional promotion leading up to the release. Prince wanted the music to speak for itself without commercial pressure. Despite the change in direction, the album proved he could follow up a blockbuster on his own creative terms.
Fun fact: The original vinyl pressing of the album included a hidden message etched in the runout groove that read Love is God.
Trivia question: What hidden message was etched into the runout groove of the original vinyl pressing of Around the World in a Day?
The lead single Raspberry Beret became one of Prince’s most memorable tracks, blending nostalgic storytelling with a playful melody. The album pulled from 60s influences, adding new textures and colors to his evolving sound.
There was no traditional promotion leading up to the release. Prince wanted the music to speak for itself without commercial pressure. Despite the change in direction, the album proved he could follow up a blockbuster on his own creative terms.
Fun fact: The original vinyl pressing of the album included a hidden message etched in the runout groove that read Love is God.
Trivia question: What hidden message was etched into the runout groove of the original vinyl pressing of Around the World in a Day?
