In this episode of the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast, I’m joined by acclaimed music writer and former editor of Smash Hits and Q Magazine, John McKie, to talk about his new book Prince: A Sign O’ The Times, published by Bonnier Books.
This extraordinary and definitive work on Prince draws on over 200 exclusive new interviews with bandmates, engineers, ex-girlfriends, bodyguards, assistants, wardrobe designers, and more. It’s a kaleidoscopic portrait of one of the most enigmatic and fiercely creative artists in music history.
John explains how Sign o’ the Times became the perfect prism through which to understand Prince — an album that captures his musical and emotional range, his genre-defying brilliance, and his relentless work ethic. The conversation touches on the myth versus the man, his competitiveness with Michael Jackson, his perfectionism in the studio, and the sheer scope of his talent as a multi-instrumentalist.
We also explore Prince’s legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame performance — that jaw-dropping guitar solo during While My Guitar Gently Weeps — as well as his influences from Carlos Santana and Jimi Hendrix, and the playful precision that made him such a unique performer.
John shares fascinating insights into the writing process too — a five-year journey that led him through 220 interviews and countless discoveries, from Prince’s hidden generosity and humour to his meticulous control of image and presentation.
“However good you think Prince is… he’s better.” — Jimmy Jam (quoted in the book)
For fans of Purple Rain, 1999, or anyone curious about how a single artist could bend pop, funk, rock, and soul into something timeless, Prince: A Sign O’ The Times is essential reading.
It’s not just another biography — it’s a 500-page deep dive into creativity, ambition, and humanity, told through the story of an album that redefined what pop could be.
About the Book
Prince: A Sign O’ The Times
By John McKie
Published by Bonnier Books – 18 September 2025
Based on over 200 exclusive interviews, this is the most comprehensive book ever written about Prince — the music, the mystery, and the man.
“I loved how John used Sign o’ the Times as the anchor for Prince’s whole story — it’s like watching a modern drama that jumps back and forth through time but always lands on a deeper truth.
The sections on guitar — his tone, influences, and that breathtaking Rock and Roll Hall of Fame solo — are some of the best I’ve read. It’s a superb book that every Prince fan should have on their Christmas list.”
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
