Scarce 12″ vinyl test pressing of T.C. Ellis’ single “Pussycat” (Warner Bros/PRO-A-4909) from Specialty Records Corporation. The original version of “Pussycat” was included on the 1991 album 'True Confessions.' Prince produced several tracks on the album, which was distributed on his personal label, Paisley Park Records. Co-produced and guest vocals by funk icon George Clinton, with background vocals from Mallia 'Queen of Funk' Franklin, the song “Pussycat” was T.C. Ellis’ second commercially-released single on the album. Five versions of this song are included on this test pressing: the “Pussycat (Cat in the Hat Mix),” “Pussycat (Extended Mix),” “Pussycat (Radio Edit),” “Pussycat (Jeep Mix),” and “Pussycat (Quick Mix).” The test pressing features a white label with typed titles, catalogue numbers, and a white sleeve, 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, which is the case here.
T.C. Ellis (a.k.a., David Ellis) is notable as a Prince protégé, as a rapper who performed and starred in Prince’s 1991 film “Graffiti Bridge.” He starred as a young, up-and-coming rapper, performing one song in the film. In terms of his work as a musician, T.C. Ellis continues to be most closely associated with Prince.
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.
