“In the mid-80s, The Bangles were just another struggling rock band from Los Angeles. Then one day, they received a demo tape, signed simply ‘Christopher.’ It was the perfect pop song. They had no idea who sent it, but they recorded it. It wasn’t until they were working on the track, that they stumbled upon the truth: it had been written by Prince, who was using the pseudonym Christopher Tracy for his movie ‘Under the Cherry Moon.’ After seeing them perform, he had decided his song ‘Manic Monday’ was a perfect fit for them and just sent it over anonymously. It became their first massive hit.”
In the mid-1980s, The Bangles were a talented but relatively unknown rock band from Los Angeles. They had the sound, the style, and the drive—but not yet the breakthrough. Then, out of nowhere, they received a demo tape. It was unsigned except for one name: Christopher.
The song was perfect. Catchy, melodic, and emotionally rich. They recorded it immediately, sensing its potential. Only later did they discover the truth: Christopher was a pseudonym used by Prince, inspired by his character Christopher Tracy in the film Under the Cherry Moon.
Prince had seen The Bangles perform live and was struck by their energy and vocal harmonies. He believed his song “Manic Monday” would suit them better than anyone else. So he sent it anonymously—no strings attached, no ego, just music.
“Manic Monday” became The Bangles’ first major hit, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. It launched them into the mainstream, paving the way for future successes like “Walk Like an Egyptian” and “Eternal Flame.”
Prince’s gesture was more than generous—it was visionary. He didn’t just write a song; he gave a band their moment. And he did it quietly, letting the music speak.
This story is a reminder of how creative generosity can change lives. Prince didn’t need credit. He saw talent, offered support, and stepped back. The Bangles, in turn, honored the song with a performance that still resonates decades later.