Riff Tone

Computer Blue

Prince & The Revolution

Guitarrock1980s

Original Gear

GuitarHohner Madcat Telecaster (Prince's main Tele-style guitar for Purple Rain era studio recordings)

AmpMesa/Boogie Mark IIC+ (studio, Purple Rain sessions; Prince's main amp for this era)

PickupsSingle-coil (stock Hohner Madcat Telecaster pickups, likely bridge position for riff)

Amp Settings

gain6

bass6

mid7

treble7

reverb3

presence6

Effects & Signal Chain

delayBoss Boss DM-2 Delay

Notes

Studio recording, 1983-1984, Purple Rain sessions at the Warehouse using Ampex MM1200 tape machine. No evidence of live rig or alternate guitars for the riff section. Wendy Melvoin played the main riff in rehearsal, but Prince played the studio riff on the Madcat. No pedalboard photo for this session; pedal use inferred from era and audio.

Tone Character(10)

percussive and bitingbright and cuttingtight, focused midrangeslightly compressedsnappy and articulatemild breakup with claritydynamic and responsivefunky, rhythmic chordingdistinct, staccato riffingnot heavily saturated

Difficulty

The riff requires intermediate skill due to its syncopated funk rhythm, precise muting, and dynamic articulation. While not technically advanced, it demands tight timing and groove.

Sources

Prince & Prince – Purple Rain - Gear & Equipment Used on the Album | Equipboard Prince | Equipboard Wendy Melvoin: Playing for the Revolution - Premier Guitar

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