Prince Launches Protege

And he's set to release three new albums in 2009

Prince, one of the biggest musical icons of the 20th Century revealed to L.A Times journalist, Ann Powers, that he intends on releasing three albums this year, MPLSOUND, Lotus Flower and the third, Elixir, will have vocals from his protg Bria Valente.

The singer, famed for hits such as Raspberry Beret, Purple Rain, Diamonds and Pearls, When Doves Cry and Little Red Corvette amongst many others, explained that he's in final negotiations with "a major retailer" to distribute the music.

Hes also developing on a fully interactive website that will allow fans to purchase the music directly. "The gatekeepers have to change" according to Prince, who will not be working with a record label to release the new material.

MPLSOUND is described as an electro-flavoured solo effort recorded at Paisley Park Studios, experimenting with "new ways of recording". Hip Hop fans will be happy to know that one of the tracks features a Q-Tip verse.

Lotus Flower is laden with Princes favourite vice, his guitar. Prince explained to Powers that he refocused on his playing while performing live dates with the singer Tamar Davis in 2006, his time out of the spotlight allowed him to immerse himself in the power of the riff. The album includes a track called Dreamer which was partly inspired by the radical black comedian Dick Gregory.

The third album, Elixir, sees the development of Princes protg Bria Valente, "This music is nasty, but it's not dirty," Prince said, explaining how sensual music aligns with his faith as a Jehovah's Witness "There's no profanity. It isn't promoting promiscuity. She's singing about her lover, who could be her partner for life."

Lasltly, Prince used the opportunity to dispel rumours that he was in support of Proposition 8, the gay-marriage ban, "I have friends that are gay and we study the Bible together."