PURPLE RAIN - SINGING DENTIST BANNED FROM COVERING PURPLE RAIN

PRINCE has banned a dentist who performs opera versions of modern songs from covering his hit Purple Rain.

Sony BMG offered NHS employee Andrew Bain a record deal after he sent them operatic version of the 1984 hit, reports the NME.

However, getting permission to use the song appears to have been like pulling teeth, with PRINCE flatly refusing inclusion of the tune on Bain's album.

"Without Purple Rain I wouldn't be where I am today," said the dentist after learning he would not be able to use the song.

"I struggled until I took a chance, mixed my operatic style with pop in Purple Rain, and realised my dreams."

Artists whose song Bain will be covering on the record include ABBA, BRYAN ADAMS and DAVID BOWIE.

Elsewhere, Bowie recently collaborated with LOST IN TRANSLATION star Scarlett Johansson on her album of TOM WAITS covers.