Prince blasts music industry

Prince is unhappy with the state of the current music scene

Pop star Prince has blasted the state of the current music scene, saying there is too much emphasis on commercial songs.

The star, who recently reverted to his original name, blamed music industry bosses for creating an "SOS" situation.

He also spoke of his new-found freedom after finally severing ties with his record company.

Prince, who turned 42 this week, opened up to fans during an internet chat on Thursday.

Prince was known as The Artist during a wrangle with his record company

He declared: "Music is going through an SOS syndrome.

"Record companies run every kind of music. They programme us with their choices, which usually means the fools with long-term contracts."

Prince reclaimed his name last month after years of being known as The Artist, or just a symbol.

Sunshine

The change marked the end of a seven-year contract battle with Warner Bros records, who he claimed exercised too much control over his music.

He told fans freedom was now "like sunshine to a flower".

Prince, who has made more than 20 top-selling albums, said he was currently working on a seven-CD collection that would feature samples from some of his biggest hits.

The star also talked about the decision to hold an open day at his Paisley Park recording studios earlier this week.

"The spirit moved me to allow the many celebrations that usually occur all over the world to happen in my own backyard," he gushed.

Prince will play his first gig of the summer in Minneapolis on 13 June.