all that existed in the 70's, into the 80's, into Prince.

That's a excellent observation.

I mean some would say the same of Steveland Wunderkind but I think the difference is in that Rick represented being a true rock star to Stevie's matyr/almost angelic/slash political presence. Making Rick a much more exciting figure to watch at any point in his life. Rick was just... open.

I also find it odd how much Rick notes Hollywood in his lyrics - almost a strange tie of art imitating life or vice versa.

I do think it's a travesty that Rick's use of genre bending songwriting has yet to be discovered and celebrated. The song he did on Dinah Shore (the second number) started off like Zepp's Ocean Song. lol. Just incredible!