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Pepé Willie
band, 94 East, will always be remembered as the band that gave the young Prince Rogers Nelson his first studio experience – let's face it, a good enough reason to be remem- bered. What's often overlooked is the skill and talent of Willie's ensemble and the influence it had on the developing 'Minneapolis Sound' – not to mention the influence it had on the developing Prince." – Quote from Snapper Music |
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94 EAST was originally formed in the late 70s in Minneapolis by Pepé Willie. Pepé was raised in show business in Brooklyn, New York, and learned the business of music working with his uncle, Clarence Collins, founding member of Little Anthony & The Imperials. Pepé moved to Minneapolis in the mid-70s, and started working with a teen band composed of Prince (Rogers Nelson), Andre’ Anderson (Cymone), Morris Day, William Dowdy, and Linda Anderson – then named Grand Central. Pepé coached Grand Central and subsequently hired Prince to record tracks on 94 East’s classic “demo sessions." Pepé later hired Prince to record on the songs, 10:15 and Fortune Teller, featured on their recent release, 94 East featuring 10:15 & Fortune Tell Remix with Prince on Guitar. 94 East was originally introduced in 1985 on Hot Pink Records with an LP entitled “Minneapolis Genius 94 East featuring Prince; The Historical Recordings”. The group was named after Interstate 94 and “East” acknowledged the connection between Pepé’s roots in Brooklyn and Minneapolis. The CD documents 94 East as one of the pillars on which the “Minneapolis Sound” was founded. 94 East also released an international 2-CD set in 1995 on the UK label, Charly Records, titled Symbolic Beginning. 94 East gives a high energy show with a mix of original and popular cover songs. You are guaranteed to enjoy!!! Members: Pepé Willie, Marcy Ingvoldstad, Kristie Lazenberry |
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R&B / Hip Hop / Pop
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