12" Test Pressing of T.C. Ellis' single ‘Pussycat’ (Warner Bros/PRO-A-4909) from Specialty Records Corporation, accompanied by an original article by famous rock journalist Jon Bream. The original version of ‘Pussycat’ was included on the 1991 album True Confessions by T. C. Ellis (a.k.a. David Ellis). T. C. Ellis is notable as a Prince protégé, a rapper who performed and starred in Prince's 1991 film Graffiti Bridge. He starred as a young, up-and-coming rapper.
Prince produced several tracks on T. C. Ellis’ debut album, which was distributed on his personal label, Paisley Park Records. Co-produced by funk icon George Clinton, who also provides guest vocals, with additional 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. Test pressings are manufactured in very limited quantity (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. The vinyl appears to be in unplayed condition.
Accompanied by an original article about T. C. Ellis written by rock journalist Jon Bream. The article, titled "With a little help from Prince," features a color photo of T.C. Ellis, and was published in the Minneapolis Star Tribune on March 19, 1991. In the article, Bream identifies T. C. Ellis as being "the first rapper to break out of the Twin Cities," comparing his style to many other more famous rappers of the time. The article includes details about the artist's upbringing, musical influences, and plans to tour.
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