Prophet

Anthony Butler channels an exuberant machine funk identity through his Prophet project. The underground artist first surfaced during the 1980s via a privately pressed LP, then secured a platform for his next album more than three decades afterward on the respected Stones Throw imprint. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Butler picked up multiple instruments while still young and received an all-state honor in his final year of high school. Following graduation he relocated to the Bay Area, performing first with a military band and later joining an ensemble that specialized in lengthy all-covers engagements. Eventually striking out solo, he produced original tracks largely unassisted, relying on drum machine and synthesizer. After failing to attract label attention he issued his debut solo album, Right on Time, independently in 1984.

Upon returning to Baton Rouge in the late 1990s, Butler resumed playing with various groups, most prominently Henry Turner, Jr. & Flavor. In the intervening years Right on Time attracted a niche following among dedicated collectors. The album resurfaced in 2013 through the Beat Electric label, distributed via Peoples Potential Unlimited. While attending a record fair, Butler encountered Peanut Butter Wolf—one of the handful of enthusiasts who owned an original pressing—and was soon signed to the DJ’s Stones Throw roster. Provided studio time alongside labelmate Mndsgn, he completed his second widely distributed full-length, Wanna Be Your Man, which appeared in 2018 and included a fresh take on the debut track “Tonight” featuring Nite Jewel.