The provocative 1980s girl group that Prince envisioned as a modern Supremes
In short: Before Apollonia 6, there was Vanity 6—a trio designed by Prince to perform in lingerie and sing of fantasy. While their provocative image and hits like 'Nasty Girl' defined an era, the group's formation was marked by disputed origins, bold stage names, and intense internal friction.
In the early 1980s, Prince sought to create a contemporary version of The Supremes. His original concept, initially titled 'The Hookers,' was intended to feature a trio performing sensual songs about romance and sex while dressed in lingerie. The group's lineup eventually stabilized with Denise Matthews—who adopted the stage name Vanity—alongside Brenda Bennett and Susan Moonsie. Prince chose the name Vanity 6 because he felt looking at Matthews was akin to seeing a female mirror image of himself.
The group's origins are not without controversy. While Prince was the primary architect, musician Rick James claimed the concept of a sexy trio in negligees singing of power and pain was actually stolen from him during a 1980 tour. Furthermore, the group's identity was shaped by Matthews's refusal to adopt the more extreme stage name 'Vagina,' which Prince had initially suggested.
Despite the friction caused by a hierarchy where Bennett often managed rehearsals, the group achieved significant international success. While their debut single, 'He's So Dull,' failed to reach the US Hot 100, it found success in Australia and the Netherlands. Their follow-up, 'Nasty Girl,' became a massive hit, reaching number one on the US Dance chart and number seven on the R&B chart. The group's era ended abruptly in 1983 when Vanity left the group following the end of her relationship with Prince, leading to the group's rebranding as Apollonia 6.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Vanity 6
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