The New Power Generation
Prince's iconic backing band that evolved from 1990 onward, still celebrated through reunions and tributes.
The New Power Generation, also known as the NPG, was Prince's primary backing band from 1990 onward, evolving through various lineups over the decades. While 3rdeyegirl became his main touring band in 2013, Prince continued to work with NPG members in different capacities, and the band was never formally replaced as a single entity. The NPG did not reunite for Prince's final studio album before his death—that was Hit n Run Phase Two (December 2015), while Hit n Run Phase One (September 2015) featured various collaborators rather than a full NPG reunion. Following Prince's passing in 2016, former members have performed tribute shows, but no official NPG tour occurred in 2017. Claims of a name change to "the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band" in February 2026 are unsubstantiated and have no basis in documented history.
Quick Facts
- Status
- Legacy Group (Active in various forms through reunions and tributes)
Lore & Background
The phrase "Welcome to the New Power Generation" was first heard on the song "New Power Generation" from the 1990 Graffiti Bridge soundtrack, not on 1988's Lovesexy. The New Power Generation name was used for the first time as a band name in the 1990 film Graffiti Bridge, and the band officially debuted live during the Diamonds and Pearls Tour in 1991—not the Nude Tour of 1990, where the backing band was not yet called the NPG. The early lineup included holdovers from the Nude Tour: Michael Bland (drums), Levi Seacer, Jr. (guitar), Rosie Gaines (keyboards and backing vocals), Tony M. (lead raps and dancing), Kirk Johnson (percussion and dancing), and Damon Dickson (dancing), along with two new members Tommy Barbarella (keyboards) and Sonny T. (bass).
Rosie Gaines left after the Diamonds and Pearls Tour and was replaced by Morris Hayes. When Prince began his dispute with Warner Bros. and changed his stage name to an unpronounceable symbol in 1993, the NPG became a side-project, allowing him to release music outside his contract. The NPG's debut album, Goldnigga, featured Tony M. as lead vocalist/rapper. A reduced NPG returned to backing Prince when he performed under the symbolic moniker in early 1994, appearing on The Gold Experience.
This incarnation released Exodus in 1995. In 1996, longstanding members Michael Bland, Tommy Barbarella, and Sonny T. were fired and a new band formed for touring. In 1998, another NPG album, Newpower Soul, was released. A fourth album, Peace, due in 2001, never materialized.
The band since has been a "revolving door" of musicians. In 2010, former NPG members Michael Bland and Sonny T. were part of Nick Jonas and the Administration, though the group was not specifically formed by three NPG members. In 2013, NPG singer Elisa Fiorillo (Dease) formed a duo with guitarist Tyler Reese, called the Dease & Reese Project. The NPG collaborated with Prince once more in 2015 on his final album, Hit n Run Phase Two, though it was not a full band reunion.
After Prince's death in 2016, former members have reunited for tribute performances, but no official NPG tour occurred in 2017, and no name change to "the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band" has been documented.
Reader's Guide
The New Power Generation served as Prince's backing band from 1990 to 2013, and also released albums as a side-project, including Goldnigga, Exodus, and Newpower Soul. The band's lineup changed frequently over the years. After Prince's death, the band reunited for tribute tours in 2017 and 2019. In February 2026, the band changed its name to "the Minneapolis Sound All Star Band".
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is The New Power Generation?
The New Power Generation served as Prince's primary backing band and creative collective starting in the late 1980s. This ensemble replaced The Revolution and defined a grittier, funk-heavy era of his musical output.
What role did they play in his music?
Functioning as more than just session players, these musicians were vital collaborators who shaped the sound of Prince's most experimental albums. They provided the rhythmic foundation for key records like Sign O' the Times and Lovesexy.
Who was the leader of the band?
Prince Musician founded the collective and acted as its sole leader throughout their tenure under Paisley Park and NPG Records. He maintained full control over the group's direction while rotating members to suit his evolving artistic needs.
What is the status of The New Power Generation today?
While no longer active in a traditional touring capacity, the NPG exists as a legacy entity within Prince's recorded history. Their influence continues through various archival releases and tributes that honor their contribution to music culture.
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