"Prostitute" is the fourth studio album by the German synth-pop band Alphaville. Released in 1994, the album marked a departure from the band's earlier synth-pop sound, instead exploring genres such as chamber pop and art rock. The album is seen as Alphaville's most critically acclaimed work, playing with challenging themes and offering deep, lyrical complexity.
"Prostitute" was a product of nearly four years of continuous work by lead singer Marian Gold and keyboardist Bernhard Lloyd. Several of the album's songs were developed during this period while others were reworked versions of earlier Alphaville tracks. The album produced several notable singles including “Fools," "The Impossible Dream," and "She Fades Away."
The title "Prostitute" reflects the album's exploration of challenging themes and societal issues. It's not only about professional prostitution but also about the prostitution of mind, body, and soul that people are subjected to daily. This risk-taking stance and refusal to comply with the norm are considered one of the main reasons for the critical acclaim of the album.
The album didn't achieve the commercial success of the band's first two releases ("Forever Young" and "Afternoons in Utopia") but is often commended for its artistic integrity and ambition. Despite the unconventional sound and complex themes, "Prostitute" remains a key highlight in Alphaville's discography, showcasing the band's ability to evolve and push boundaries.
