Born Andre Simon Anderson in Minneapolis, Minnesota, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and producer Andre Cymone grew up in a supportive household where fellow aspiring musicians congregated and practiced. One peer was Prince, who even stayed with the family for some time. Cymone and Prince were in fledgling bands, Grand Central and Champagne, until Prince signed a recording contract. After Prince released his debut, 1978’s For You, he had Cymone join his touring band as its bassist. Cymone remained with Prince until 1981, signed with Columbia as a solo artist, and landed a hit with “The Dance Electric.” Further success came in the late '80s after marrying Jody Watley. The two collaborated extensively, from Watley’s 1987 full-length solo debut through 1993’s Intimacy. ~ Andy Kellman