Photoshoots were always fun for me, especially back then. I've never been conceited, but it was good just to let loose in front of the cameras. Beyond music, I'd never found another real outlet until fashion and imagery changed my life.
On that album cover, I offered my side profile to one camera. Despite this angle, from the top down, I'd worn a black tank top with matching pants. Ankle boots prompted my footsteps to click time. As I wore this favorite headband from Momma, curls swooped down towards my shoulders. Once again, this variation of nearly gothic make-up and dark lipstick had then accented my own dark skin.
This vibrant color of light baby blue painted the wall beside my head. Taking one marker, I'd written "Peace + Pain" to show my record's title in onyx cursive letters. Quiet yet daring at once. I could only imagine what critics would write down later.
When it was time for the release party, other celebrities flocked to visit. Everyone from George Michael to Lionel arrived to congratulate me, but my eyes zeroed in when Madonna smiled for the cameras with someone here. Someone I also knew.
Michael.
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It wasn't until Madonna walked away that Michael noticed me. He must've snuck in here to avoid greeting me among everyone else. As we all knew, Mike never really enjoyed parties like this before, so it was to know that he supported my project.
"Hey, Big Shot." Michael laughed to himself before we shared this overdue embrace. It was also one of the few times Jackson greeted without using my full name. I'd guessed that the vibe around here actually loosened him up for once.
"It's so good to see you. Thanks for coming." I pulled away, but still smiled of course. I stood on Cloud Nine ever since this album reached shelves everywhere. Fans had swarmed record stores and others already wanted brand-new work.
As many colorful spotlights flooded this nightclub, this disc jockey began to play one of my favorite tracks on the album. An upbeat instrumental prompted everyone to dance all over this place. Reflecting on the process now, it wasn't long before I realized something huge: I'd actually recorded early New Jack Swing back in 1985.
"Is Dr. Fink on this song? Goodness!" Michael raved about this song in his own adorable way without cursing, of course. I'd never forget the smile on our faces when I realized what he meant and laughed out loud. He was just too funny.
"No. Good guess, but I created most of these records myself. I do love Matt, though." I referred to Matt Fink, Prince's longtime keyboardist and synthesizer extraordinaire. I wanted to slap Matt for both of his solos on "Baby I'm A Star."
"Congratulations." Michael grinned once more. As the music changed, I snapped my fingers and we continued talking. By the time my records faded out, applause filled this entire space. Michael hugged me again and I of course welcomed that hold.
"What's next?" Michael folded both arms as we sat down together and cooled off from dancing. This VIP section overlooked the main level. Bottles popped and cigarette smoke wafted, but I wouldn't act too crazy in front of Michael, even on a night like this. We didn't need to argue about images again. I'd party harder later.
"I'll start rehearsing for a tour soon." I winked, explaining the big news to Michael. I'd previously revealed that information at the beginning of this party. That upcoming span of time with gigs would kick off my very first round of concerts. This one idea turned its wheel in my mind for years, but I'd finally begin another dream.
"Are you serious?" Michael returned his smile. I beamed right back, happily remembering my early days with music. To be honest, even that Grammy win at the ceremony last didn't mean as much to me touring almost everywhere soon.
"Yep! I'm going on tour." Just when I planned to describe more details for Michael, noise echoed from downstairs. I didn't know what to think until Michael and I glanced over the silver railing together. As though planned, "Holly Rock" by Sheila E thundered out of nowhere from speakers located all over this packed nightclub.
"Go ahead," Not even seconds later, Michael then laughed to himself once more, leaving me to walk down the steps and meet up with Sheila. I could only imagine who else showed up to my party. I also knew this celebration was far from over.
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"The music wasn't my idea. That DJ wanted to introduce me. I'm so sorry!" Shelia chuckled. We'd both reached the dance floor now. I didn't even care. Happiness ran through my veins this evening and nothing at the moment could ruin my mood.
"Stop fussing. Thank you for coming." I still grinned towards Sheila at this point. In the middle of our conversation though, someone else covered my eyes with both hands out of nowhere. My mind jumbled with questions until I then turned around.
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"Surprised?" Prince stood here in all of his flamboyant glory. On the other hand, Sheila bid farewell to me and walked away, but before jokingly rolling her eyes first. Music continued playing as Prince and I caught up. Other celebrities danced nearby.
"Of course I am. Why would you even come to see me? Sure we're friends, but the tour isn't over." I ranted for a moment. Prince wouldn't finish the "Purple Rain" tour until Spring and those gigs weren't even close to slowing up their momentum yet.
"I'm not performing tonight and Sheila wanted to see you before our flight out of town tomorrow. Most of the band is actually partying somewhere around here, too. You just haven't noticed." while speaking, Prince then offered this low chuckle that complimented his matching voice. Another song played for our eardrums.
"Bullshit answer." I giggled for once. Prince rolled his eyes in return, but still knew that he was caught. We still laughed together again, but realized that something was different about our encounter. I just couldn't figure what this moment meant.
By the time I returned home from celebrating that wonderful night, fresh flowers perched on my coffee table. I actually couldn't help smiling as comfortable silence now filled this living room. Prince even attached this card with his own message:
