The New Power Generation (1994)

Lore & Background

In 1994, a reduced New Power Generation returned to the Prince fold when he began performing under the symbolic moniker. The rappers and dancers were let go, and Levi Seacer left the band as well. Given an expanded role in the band was dancer Mayte Garcia, who provided backing and Spanish vocals. This incarnation released the album Exodus in 1995.

Reader's Guide

The 1994 incarnation of the NPG backed Prince on The Gold Experience.

Did You Know?

• The phrase 'Welcome to the New Power Generation' was first mentioned on the opening track of Prince's 1988 album Lovesexy.
• The NPG's debut album Goldnigga featured Tony M. as lead vocalist/rapper and relied heavily on rap and 1970s funk.
• In 1996, longstanding members Michael Bland, Tommy Barbarella, and Sonny T. were fired from the NPG.
• After Prince's death in 2016, the NPG reunited in 2017 and 2019 for a US and European Prince tribute tour.
• In February 2026, the band changed its name to 'the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band' due to trademark expiration and restrictions on performing Prince's material.