Morris Day

Background

Morris Day was born on December 13, 1957, in Springfield, Illinois. He is a songwriter and a highly talented musician, though he is best known as the charismatic lead singer of The Time.

He was schoolmates with Prince and André Cymone — the trio formed an early band called Grand Central, and then later renamed themselves Champagne. Sometime later, Prince began his solo career but kept Cymone for his backing band. Both began planning another group with a more R&B sound, while Prince would explore other different musical styles. Prince creates a new band called The Time. Day helped Prince write a song called ‘Partyup’ for his album “Dirty Mind,” and Prince would soon return the favor, giving Day the lead singer position for The Time. He suggested guitarist Jesse Johnson, who completed the band’s lineup.

The band’s most important and visible period came in 1984 when Day played Prince’s antagonist in the movie “Purple Rain,” and that established Day’s presence on stage as a playboy. His exaggerated vanity won over thousands of fans, and his personality was further used to comedic effect on his band’s records on the songs ‘Chili Sauce’ and ‘If the Kid Can’t Make You Come’ from the album “Ice Cream Castle.” Day, even in the present, is a popular show attraction, fronting a revamped lineup for The Time. Jerome Benton, his “personal security,” continues to work with him on his shows.