102. Prince

(November 2016) I have completed episode 102 of my “opus project,” in which I listen to an artist’s full discography. This edition: PRINCE. I now have greater appreciation of the depth and breadth (39 studio albums!) of his work (beyond the 80s albums). To me, the artist he most resembles is Frank Zappa: prolific, diversity of musical styles, idiosyncratic, social commentary, guitar virtuoso, but most of all, both successfully insisted on control of their music and business, and on doing things their own way. He was a genius. Best when funky. Best when falsetto.

Favorite album: Sign o’ the Times

Favorite song: Kiss

Favorite period: 1980-87

Best album you never heard of: The Truth (acoustic)

Compared to expectations: ↑

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98. Michael Jackson

(October 2016) I have completed episode 98 of my “opus project,” in which I listen to an artist’s full discography. This edition: MICHAEL JACKSON. Simultaneously one of the biggest pop stars ever and one of the most overrated, IMHO.

Favorite album: Thriller

Favorite song: Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough

Don’t bother: His kid pop albums in the 1970s

Creepiest lyrics: ” You know I’m bad, I’m bad – you know it” and ” Monster / He’s a monster.”

Compared to expectations:  same

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