The Time

Lore & Background

In the narrative of Purple Rain, The Time represents the polished, commercial success that contrasts with Prince's raw, emotional artistic struggle. They are portrayed as a slicker, more confident group that commands the stage at First Avenue. However, behind the scenes, the relationship was symbiotic; Prince wrote and produced their biggest hits, allowing him to explore different sonic textures without diluting his primary brand identity. While Morris Day fronted the group as a charismatic showman, the musical backbone was largely constructed by Prince in the studio. This duality created a unique tension where The Time were both competitors and collaborators within the same ecosystem.

Reader's Guide

Formed in the late 1970s by Morris Day and Jesse Johnson, The Time officially debuted with their self-titled album in 1981. Prince served as the primary songwriter and producer, often playing instruments under pseudonyms to maintain the illusion of independence. Key members included Doctor Fink on keyboards, Jerome Benton on backing vocals and dance, and Miko Weaver on guitar. Their stylistic evolution moved from raw funk to polished pop hits like Jungle Love and Get It Up.

While they toured independently, their live shows often mirrored Prince's energy, creating a competitive atmosphere that fueled fan interest. The group appeared prominently in the 1984 film Purple Rain, cementing their legacy as the primary rivals within the narrative. Their impact on Prince's catalog was significant; songs written for them were frequently reworked for his own albums, and they provided essential live support during tours when Prince needed a break from lead vocals. The Time remains a testament to Prince's ability to curate entire musical ecosystems around his vision.

Did You Know?

• Jerome Benton is famous for his energetic dance moves during performances.
• Prince played multiple instruments on their recordings without always being credited.