Scarce 12” two-sided vinyl test pressing of Sheila E.’s single “Droppin’ Like Flies” (Warner Bros/PRO-A1-4647-SR1) from Specialty Records Corporation. The original version of “Droppin’ Like Flies” was included on the album “Sex Cymbal” (it was the second commercial single released from the album). The single, released on May 17, 1991, peaked at 23 on the US Dance charts. Five versions of this song are included on this test pressing: the “Black Flag Club Mix,” “Droppin’ Like Flies (Edit),” “Droppin’ Like Flies (7” Edit Radio Mix),” “Venus Fly Dub,” and “Combat Bonus Beats.” The test pressing features a white label with typed titles, catalogue numbers, and white outer and inner sleeves, which is typical of a test pressing. The vinyl appears to be in un-played condition.
Test pressings are manufactured in very limited quantities (often fewer than 25 copies) for the purpose of listening to materials being considered for commercial release or for evaluating the quality of a finished product. They are usually the first discs made from production stampers and sound better than commercially available vinyl. Often the song content of a test pressing mirrors that of a commercial vinyl release. However, in this case, two of the versions of “Droppin’ Like Flies” included on this test pressing are not included on the commercial 12” vinyl release of this single nor the album “Sex Cymbal,” making this test pressing even more rare because it contains “alternative material.”
Grammy-nominated artist Sheila E. is one of the more famous Prince protégés, known by some as the “Queen of Percussion.” Her signature songs and biggest solo hits include “The Glamorous Life” and “A Love Bizarre.” Though she has performed and recorded with Beyoncé, Marvin Gaye, Herbie Hancock, Diana Ross, Cyndi Lauper, Phil Collins, and Ringo Starr (and starred in four films), she is most closely associated with Prince for whom she extensively recorded and toured. In fine condition.
The Prince Estate is not affiliated, associated, or connected with RR Auction or this auction, nor has it endorsed, authenticated or sponsored the items available for auction. Further, The Prince Estate has not licensed any of its intellectual property to RR Auction.
