On August 10, 1993, the U.S. release of Jevetta Steele’s album Here It Is quietly introduced the world to two exceptional Prince compositions — “Hold Me” and “Open Book.” While these tracks may not have reached the mainstream spotlight at the time, they stand as prime examples of Prince’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that could seamlessly fit into another artist’s repertoire.
“Hold Me” has an especially interesting journey. Prince first recorded the song in December 1990 during sessions that would eventually shape Diamonds and Pearls. Early on, it was considered for inclusion on the album but ultimately set aside because its sound bore too close a resemblance to the title track. Not one to let a good song go to waste, Prince offered it to Anita Baker, who, despite her vocal prowess and compatibility with the track’s mood, never recorded it. It wasn’t until October 1991 that Jevetta Steele — a gifted vocalist best known for her work with The Steeles and her stunning solo performances — laid down her vocal overdubs, giving “Hold Me” a lush, soulful new life.
The second Prince composition on Here It Is, “Open Book,” is even more of a deep cut. Recorded in January 1991, it was initially intended for Martika’s album Martika’s Kitchen. While Martika never ended up using it, the song lingered in Prince’s creative vault. Many Prince aficionados have speculated that “Open Book” could have been a powerful closing track on one of his own albums — an intimate, stripped-down piece that reveals a raw emotional side not often at the forefront of his commercial releases. Jevetta Steele eventually recorded her vocals sometime before the summer of 1993, transforming the track into a soulful, heartfelt ballad that resonates with authenticity.
Both “Hold Me” and “Open Book” demonstrate Prince’s remarkable versatility as a songwriter. These are not the funk-driven, guitar-heavy anthems for which he is most famous, but rather delicate, emotionally nuanced compositions. In Jevetta Steele’s hands, they became deeply expressive works that allowed her voice to shine while retaining Prince’s distinctive musical fingerprint.
For years, “Open Book” remained largely unknown outside of hardcore Prince circles. Fans often referred to it as one of the “hidden gems” of his catalog, praising its vulnerability and understated beauty. This status was cemented when it was finally included in the Diamonds and Pearls Deluxe Edition box set, allowing a new generation of listeners to discover its quiet brilliance.
The release of Here It Is on August 10, 1993, may not have made major headlines at the time, but for those who follow Prince’s sprawling musical legacy, it represents an important footnote. It’s a reminder that some of his finest work wasn’t always front and center on his own albums — instead, it often found life through the voices of other talented artists like Jevetta Steele.
Three decades later, both “Hold Me” and “Open Book” stand as enduring testaments to Prince’s gift for songwriting — and to the magic that happens when a master craftsman’s work meets a voice that can carry its soul.
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