Dream Factory cover

Dream Factory

Prince

136 min · 31 tracks · contemporary R&B

A kaleidoscopic blend of funk, rock, and soul that showcases Prince's diverse artistic vision and experimental spirit.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Visions Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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    The Ballad of Dorothy Parker — This track features a conversational style and vivid storytelling that exemplifies Prince's ability to fuse narrative depth with catchy melodies.
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    I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man — With its infectious groove and heartfelt lyrics, this song encapsulates Prince’s mastery of blending personal emotion with danceable funk.
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    Starfish and Coffee — This whimsical track showcases Prince's playful side while utilizing rich textures and harmonies that highlight his unique sonic palette.
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    Crystal Ball — Its expansive length and intricate arrangement reflect Prince's ambition to push musical boundaries while maintaining lyrical introspection.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • kaleidoscopic soundscapes for exploration
  • early morning creativity boost
  • playful rhythms for a party
  • patiently unfolding narratives throughout
  • intimate moments of personal reflection

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer straightforward, concise tracks
  • seek instant gratification only

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Experimental — Represents a departure from mainstream sound, showcasing Prince's innovative and diverse vision.
Themes
Minneapolis soundscape· whimsical storytelling· social commentary· funk rock experimentation
Career context
Released in 1986, 'Dream Factory' was intended to be part of a larger project following the critical success of 'Purple Rain.' However, the album was ultimately shelved, and many tracks were later reworked into the celebrated 'Sign 'O' The Times.' This period marked a transitional phase for Prince as he navigated his burgeoning fame and evolving musical identity.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Visions Start here 2:13
  • 2 Dream Factory 3:57
  • 3 Train 4:22
  • 4 The Ballad of Dorothy Parker 3:59
  • 5 It 5:10
  • 6 Strange Relationship 4:24
  • 7 Slow Love 4:21
  • 8 Starfish and Coffee 2:49
  • 9 Colors 1:00
  • 10 I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man 6:54
  • 11 Sign “O” The Times 3:43
  • 12 Crystal Ball 9:33
  • 13 A Place in Heaven 2:45
  • 14 Last Heart 3:02
  • 15 Witness 4 the Prosecution 3:59
  • 16 Movie Star 4:25
  • 17 The Cross 4:45
  • 18 All My Dreams 7:12

Disc 2

  • 1 It’s a Wonderful Day 3:41
  • 2 Teacher, Teacher 3:05
  • 3 Sexual Suicide 3:39
  • 4 Power Fantastic 4:43
  • 5 In a Large Room With No Light 3:14
  • 6 A Place in Heaven 2:51
  • 7 Witness 4 the Prosecution 3:57
  • 8 Crystal Ball 10:27
  • 9 Data Bank 7:55
  • 10 Girl O’ My Dreams 1:27
  • 11 Can’t Stop This Feeling I Got 2:09
  • 12 We Can Funk 5:29
  • 13 Big Tall Wall 5:41

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata