“But did Jackson and Prince really dislike each other? The evidence
suggests that the rivalry was for real, if not a bit one-sided. On his
2004 album Musicology, Prince had a lyric that went, “My voice is
getting higher/And Eye ain’t never had my nose done/That’s the other
guy.” He also ducked out of the Jackson-helmed “We Are The World”
sessions (though he did end up donating a song to the benefit album).
However, recent interviews with former Prince band members reveal a
more genial side. “They’d shoot hoops at Paisley Park,” longtime
Prince drummer Bobby Z told the Star-Tribune. Prince had a deep-seeded
competitive nature, so it’s easy to see where he would measure himself
against Jackson’s success. Engineer David Z told a story about
Prince’s attempt to play ping-pong with Jackson. “Michael drops his
paddle and holds his hands up in front of his face so the ball won’t
hit him. Michael walks out with his bodyguard, and Prince starts
strutting around like a rooster. ‘Did you see that? He played like
Helen Keller.’”
An incisive feature by the brilliant Peter Hartlaub runs in tomorrow’s San Francisco Chronicle. Hartlaub calls our book “a history, a celebration, a support group and an argument for pingpong as a pop cultural force.” Congratulations Peter. You are now the early front runner for a Pullitzer.
Sports Illustrated lauded our humble tome in their Media Review of the year. We are delighted to have received this honor and are desperately trying not to take offense at being labeled low brow.
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San Francisco: We are a mere 36 hours away from the Grandmaster Challenge storming into town. More on the scope of the event from today’s Flavorpill, Thrillist, and, honor of honors, in Leah Garchik’s San Francisco Chronicle Column which is the holy of holies as far as we are concerned.
Come and raise a paddle with us in the auto body shop. We have a slew of champions taking on all comers, loads of liquor, Dave Eggers, Andrew Myint, and Jerry Harrison battling to the death, and the greatest cause in 826 who will benefit from all of the blood, sweat, and beers. With thanks to MySpace, K-Swiss, and Joola who are making this magic happen.
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Dandy Don Meredith RIP. Football was his game. Ping Pong was his passion.
We were Daily Candied this morning. Massive honor. Better than an Oscar, Pullitzer, or Nobel Peace Prize right? Maira Kalman’s book is also on the list and beyond superb.
We would love to see you in San Francisco. Please come… and spread the word. All proceeds to 826 National.