From Guitar World · · 2m
Prince's Band Member on Learning Songs Fast
Prince's band member Levi Seacer Jr recalls learning songs in days, fines for missing parts, and his band's unique style.
In brief
Prince's band member Levi Seacer Jr recalls learning songs in days, fines for missing parts, and his band's unique style. Levi Seacer Jr learned Prince's songs in days, faced $50 fines for missing parts, and played with Prince's New Power Generation. Originally reported by Guitar World.
Levi Seacer Jr
Levi Seacer Jr was born in California in 1961 and began working with Prince in the 1980s.
Prince's Call
Prince called Levi Seacer Jr to join his band after a phone call from his secretary.
Bass Player
Levi Seacer Jr switched from guitar to bass after Prince asked him to play bass instead.
First Songs
Prince had Levi Seacer Jr and his band learn three songs from Sign O The Times in one day.
Learning Speed
Levi Seacer Jr and his band learned three songs a day for a week, creating a double album.
Fines for Missing Parts
Prince fined players $50 for missing parts, holding up five fingers if they missed a note.
Five Fingers of Death
Levi Seacer Jr called Prince's five-finger penalty the 'five fingers of death' to keep the band in line.
Prince's Basketball Skills
Prince played basketball in his heels, impressing Levi Seacer Jr with his skills.
New Power Generation
Levi Seacer Jr switched back to guitar after Prince brought Sonny Thompson into the band.
Sly Stone Influence
Prince's New Power Generation incorporated Sly Stone, Latin music, and fusion styles.
Chicken Grease
Prince used 'chicken grease' to describe hitting a raised 9th chord in the song Sexy MF.
Prince's Genius
Prince was a genius with a unique work ethic, practicing eight hours a day.
Band Dynamics
Levi Seacer Jr and Prince played counter-melodies to stay out of each other's way.
Prince's Personality
Prince was funny, creative, and could play any music style in 30 minutes.
What matters most
Levi Seacer Jr learned Prince's songs in days, faced $50 fines for missing parts, and played with Prince's New Power Generation.
