Chaos & Disorder

Chaos and Disorder is the eighteenth studio album by American recording artist Prince. Released on 9th July 1996 by Warner Bros. Records, the album reached number 26 in the United States and number 14 in the United Kingdom. Prince chose not to promote the album as he was still embroiled in a contractual dispute with Warner Bros., leading to its release solely to fulfil his contractual obligations. The inlay sleeve bears the message: “Originally intended 4 private use only, this compilation serves as the last original material recorded by (love symbol) 4 warner brothers records – may you live 2 see the dawn”.

The single “Dinner with Delores” was exclusively released in the United Kingdom and achieved moderate success, despite minimal promotion. Although out of print for several years, the album became available digitally on Tidal in 2016 and on iTunes in 2018. It was subsequently reissued on CD and vinyl in September 2019, featuring artwork depicting a bloody hypodermic needle with a dollar bill inside it, and a human heart in a toilet bowl.

Production-wise, Prince claimed the album was completed swiftly, yet over a third of its content originated from sessions for The Gold Experience and Come. Notably, Rosie Gaines returned to contribute vocals on five tracks, alongside Michael B. and Sonny T. who participated in their final sessions as regular New Power Generation members. Following Prince’s passing, the album received retrospective praise for its rock-oriented sound and impressive guitar work.

In the aftermath of Chaos and Disorder, Prince severed ties with Warner Bros., leading to an 18-year hiatus before he released another album with the label. The subsequent release, 2014’s Plectrumelectrum, marked a significant milestone as Prince regained control of his masters, resolving a longstanding point of contention.