Groovin’ Through the Minneapolis Sound: The Andre Cymone Story

Welcome back to the Cruisin’ the Barrio series, where we journey through the vibrant tapestry of musical history to celebrate legendary talent that has left an indelible mark on our hearts and souls. Each week, we delve into the stories of iconic artists who have shaped the landscape of music, reminding us of the timeless melodies and unforgettable moments that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Join us on this musical odyssey as we pay tribute to the legends who have paved the way for generations to come, right here on rox-tv.com.

Before we delve into the electrifying world of Andre Cymone, let’s take a moment to explore the background of this enigmatic artist. Born Andre Simon Anderson, Cymone grew up in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a city renowned for its vibrant music scene. It was here that he first crossed paths with another budding musician who would change the course of his life – Prince.

From their early years as childhood friends to their later collaborations and artistic endeavors, Andre Cymone and Prince shared a deep bond rooted in music. Together, they navigated the highs and lows of the music industry, each leaving an indelible mark on the other’s career.

The first time I encountered Andre was on a local show here in Detroit called “The Scene with Matt Morris,” which aired five days a week at 6:00 p.m. on WGPR in Detroit. As a new Prince fan eager to explore more of the Minneapolis sound, I was thrilled to learn that Andre would be featured on the show. I had recently picked up his debut album, “Living in the New Wave,” which, to me, is a total masterpiece.

Tracks like “Kelly’s Eyes,” “Ritz Club,” “Voice on the Radio,” and the all-time favorite “Baby Don’t Go,” along with the title single “Living in the New Wave,” became instant classics in my book. These are the kinds of jams that we continue to play all the time on Cruisin The Barrio. Of course, it’s no secret that Cymone had a profound influence on and was influenced by Prince, who was not only his contemporary but also his best friend.

Back in the day, many of us wondered why Prince seemed to have a complicated relationship with Andre Cymone. However, as I’ve grown older, I’ve come to believe that Prince was allowing Andre the space to come into his own and create awesome music. Personally, I’ve never had the opportunity to see Andre live – it’s definitely on my bucket list of concerts to attend in the future, along with my crew.

Beyond his solo career, Andre Cymone also made significant contributions to the music industry as a producer. He was married to ’80s pop star Jody Watley and produced several hits for her, as well as for other artists including Adam Ant. Andre’s versatility and talent shine through in his work, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

As we celebrate the legacy of Andre Cymone, let’s not forget the impact he has had on shaping the sound of a generation. His music continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, a testament to his enduring talent and influence.

Join us next week as we continue our exploration of the artists who have shaped the fabric of our musical landscape in the Cruisin The Barrio Artist Series. Until then, keep cruisin’ and groovin’ to the timeless beats of Andre Cymone.