Prince Rogers Nelson, simply known as Prince, remains an indelible figure in music history. As a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer, Prince transcended genres and redefined musical boundaries. Hailing from Minneapolis, this extraordinary prince musician crafted a unique sound that resonated across generations, delivering timeless hits like “Diamonds and Pearls” and “Little Red Corvette.” His prolific career spanned 39 studio albums, countless singles, seven Grammy Awards, and over 100 million records sold worldwide. Prince’s untimely passing in April 2016 at the age of 57, due to an accidental overdose, left a void in the music world, but his songs continue to inspire and captivate.
Beyond his musical genius, Prince was a fierce advocate for artist rights and creative freedom. He challenged the industry norms, famously changing his name to a symbol to assert ownership over his work and becoming known as “The Artist Formerly Known as Prince.” This bold move underscored his unwavering commitment to artistic autonomy. Born to a social worker mother and a jazz musician father, Prince’s upbringing deeply influenced his musical journey. He pioneered the “Minneapolis sound,” a vibrant fusion of rock, soul, jazz, blues, R&B, hip hop, funk, gospel, and electronic music. His musical journey began early, writing his first song at the age of seven on his father’s piano. By 19, he had signed with Warner Brothers Records, launching a career that would produce seminal albums such as For You (1978) and Prince (1979).
Exploring the Essential Prince Musician Songs: A Top 25 Countdown
Compiling a definitive ranking of Prince’s songs is a near-impossible task, given his vast and diverse catalog. However, to appreciate the breadth of his artistry, here’s a curated list of 25 essential tracks that showcase his evolution as a musician and songwriter. These songs, ranging from soulful ballads to electrifying funk anthems, represent just a fraction of his immense talent.
25. “So Dark (remix)” (1998)
Originally from his 1994 album Come as “Dark,” this track was reimagined for the Crystal Ball album in 1998 as “So Dark (remix).” This version leans heavily into R&B and neo-soul influences, departing from the original’s jazzier feel. “So Dark” offers a smooth and accessible entry point for those new to Prince’s diverse musical landscape, with its contemporary groove and inviting tempo.
24. “Controversy” (1981)
“Controversy” is a quintessential example of Prince’s early 80s funk-electronic sound. Built upon a driving bassline and synth layers, the song is both danceable and thought-provoking. Prince’s signature vocals, playful ad-libs, and even a rap verse, make “Controversy” a perfect encapsulation of his genre-bending approach and a staple for any Prince party.
23. “Mountains” (Prince and The Revolution, 1986)
From the Parade album and soundtrack to the film Under the Cherry Moon, “Mountains” is a collaborative effort with Wendy & Lisa of The Revolution. Its rhythmic complexity and cinematic quality evoke a sense of visual storytelling, making it feel like the soundtrack to a dramatic scene unfolding on screen. The song’s sophisticated arrangement highlights Prince’s ability to create music that transcends mere listening and becomes an immersive experience.
22. “Baby I’m a Star” (1984)
“Baby I’m a Star,” from the legendary Purple Rain soundtrack, is an anthem of self-affirmation and rockstar ambition. The song perfectly embodies the spirit of the Purple Rain film, a rock musical deeply intertwined with Prince’s own life story, channeled through the protagonist “The Kid.” Interestingly, Tim Burton initially considered using “Baby I’m A Star” for a scene in his Batman movie before Prince himself was brought in to create original music for the film, ultimately contributing tracks like “200 Balloons” and “Trust.”
21. “Xotica” (2003)
“Xotica” is a departure from Prince’s vocal-heavy hits, showcasing his instrumental prowess. This sultry jazz instrumental from the Xpectation album, a digital-download-only release, features a relaxed drum groove, soulful saxophone melodies, and shimmering electronic piano chords. “Xotica” highlights Prince’s versatility as a musician and his ability to explore diverse sonic territories.
20. “Black Sweat” (2006)
From the 3121 album, “Black Sweat” is a masterclass in minimalist funk. Its sparse arrangement puts the focus squarely on the rhythm and Prince’s commanding vocal performance. The song garnered Grammy nominations for Best R&B Song and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, solidifying its place as a standout track in Prince’s later discography.
19. “Mr. Nelson” (Prince with Lianne La Havas, 2015)
“Mr. Nelson” is a unique collaboration with UK singer Lianne La Havas, demonstrating Prince’s constant musical evolution even late in his career. The song blends a reggaeton rhythm with the tempo of electronic dance music, creating an unexpected and captivating sonic landscape. Its ethereal atmosphere and cross-genre experimentation exemplify Prince’s boundless creativity.
18. “The Beautiful Ones” (1984)
A powerful love ballad from Purple Rain, “The Beautiful Ones” is a testament to Prince’s songwriting depth. While originally recorded in the early 80s, the song gained broader recognition through Mariah Carey’s 1997 cover on her album Butterfly, reimagined as a duet with R&B group Dru Hill. This song showcases Prince’s ability to craft emotionally resonant melodies and lyrics that endure across interpretations.
17. “Delirious” (1982)
“Delirious,” from the 1999 album, followed the success of “Little Red Corvette” and further cemented Prince’s pop crossover appeal. Built on a classic 8-bar blues structure, “Delirious” is a playful and suggestive track that uses clever metaphors to explore themes of desire and infatuation. Its catchy rhythm and lyrical wit made it an instant fan favorite.
16. “Sexy M.F.” (1992)
“Sexy M.F.” is a high-energy funk jam reminiscent of James Brown, from Prince’s symbolically titled 14th album (often referred to as the Symbol album). This confident and flamboyant track showcases Prince’s lyrical dexterity, moving seamlessly between rapping and spoken word. Its infectious groove and unapologetic attitude make it a standout in his 90s output.
15. “Let’s Go Crazy” (1984)
“Let’s Go Crazy” is the ultimate high-octane opener, serving as the lead track for both the Purple Rain album and film, and a frequent concert opener for Prince. Its exhilarating rhythm, iconic guitar riff, and uplifting message make it a perfect anthem for letting loose and embracing life’s joys. It’s a quintessential Prince song that embodies his energetic stage presence and musical dynamism.
14. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” (1979)
“I Wanna Be Your Lover,” the lead single from his second album Prince, marked a significant step in defining his artistic persona. The song is accompanied by a visually striking, disco-inspired video featuring Prince front and center, delivering intense eye contact and expressive dance moves. This track captured the burgeoning Prince aesthetic – a blend of sensuality, confidence, and musical innovation.
13. “Cream” (Prince & The New Power Generation, 1991)
From the Diamonds and Pearls album, “Cream” is a sexually charged hit that epitomized the mainstream pop music scene of the 1990s. The accompanying music video further amplified the song’s suggestive nature, aligning with the era’s exploration of sensuality in popular culture. “Cream” is a prime example of Prince’s ability to blend provocative themes with irresistible pop hooks.
12. “Pop Life” (1985)
“Pop Life,” from the Around The World In A Day album, offers a wry and insightful commentary on the complexities of fame. Co-written with The Revolution, the song explores the paradoxical nature of celebrity, with its allure and inherent pressures. Its playful melody and thoughtful lyrics provide a glimpse into Prince’s reflections on his own public persona.
11. “U Got the Look” (Prince, featuring Sheena Easton, 1987)
“U Got the Look,” from Sign o’ the Times, is a percussion-driven track featuring both electronic and hand drums, the latter played by the renowned Sheila E. This song, with its infectious rhythm and duet vocals with Sheena Easton, is a testament to Prince’s ability to create sophisticated pop songs with layered musical textures and broad appeal.
10. “1999” (1982)
“1999,” from the album of the same name, is an apocalyptic party anthem that has become deeply ingrained in popular culture. Its message of celebrating life in the face of uncertainty resonated widely, and the song’s infectious energy and singalong chorus have made it a perennial favorite for New Year’s Eve celebrations and beyond. “1999” captures Prince’s ability to blend social commentary with irresistible dance grooves.
9. “So Blue” (1978)
“So Blue” offers a rare glimpse into Prince’s acoustic side. This ballad, from his debut album For You, is an emotionally raw and somewhat unconventional love song that shifts tempo and mood. Stripped down to its core elements, “So Blue” highlights Prince’s vocal talent and soulful delivery, showcasing a different facet of his musical artistry beyond his multi-instrumental virtuosity.
8. “Purple Rain” (1984)
“Purple Rain” is arguably Prince’s most iconic song, lending its name to his groundbreaking album and film. This power ballad encapsulates the emotional core of the Purple Rain project and has become synonymous with Prince’s artistry. Its soaring melody, heartfelt lyrics, and epic guitar solo have cemented its status as a timeless classic and one of the most recognizable songs of the 1980s.
7. “Sometimes It Snows In April” (1986)
“Sometimes It Snows In April,” from Parade, is a poignant and melancholic ballad that demonstrates Prince’s ability to evoke profound emotion with simple instrumentation. Released over 30 years into his career, this song showcases his continued capacity for reinvention and raw emotional expression. Its understated beauty and lyrical depth make it a deeply moving listening experience.
6. “Kiss” (1986)
“Kiss,” from Parade, is a minimalist funk masterpiece that is consistently ranked among Prince’s best songs by critics and fans. Its stripped-down arrangement, driven by a simple drum machine beat and Prince’s distinctive vocals, is incredibly effective. American Songwriter ranked it number three on their list of top Prince songs, and Rolling Stone placed it at No. 85 on their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, highlighting its enduring impact and critical acclaim.
5. “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” (1995)
“The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” is a straightforward and sincere declaration of love, a sentiment that permeates much of Prince’s music, though often in more metaphorical ways. This song is an unadorned expression of adoration and appreciation, a classic love song delivered with Prince’s characteristic passion and vocal finesse.
4. “Little Red Corvette” (1983)
“Little Red Corvette,” from 1999, was described by Billboard in 1983 as a “racy rock number,” a fitting description for its blend of rock energy and suggestive lyrics. This song, with its memorable melody and relatable themes of love and relationships, transcends generational boundaries. It became Prince’s highest-charting single at the time, reaching number six on the Billboard Hot 100 and marking a major breakthrough in his career.
3. “Raspberry Beret” (1985)
“Raspberry Beret,” from Around The World In A Day, is a whimsical and charming song with a distinct visual identity, thanks to its iconic music video featuring actress Jackie Swanson. The song’s lighthearted narrative and catchy melody have broad appeal, making it a crowd-pleaser across diverse audiences. It’s a prime example of Prince’s ability to craft songs that are both musically sophisticated and universally enjoyable.
2. “When Doves Cry” (1984)
Another monumental hit from Purple Rain, “When Doves Cry” was specifically written to complement a key emotional segment of the film, addressing themes of family conflict and romantic entanglement. This song, notable for its lack of a bassline, became Prince’s first Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 single in the U.S. and achieved global chart success, solidifying his status as a global superstar.
1. “Diamonds and Pearls” (1991)
“Diamonds and Pearls,” the title track from the album of the same name, is a sonic masterpiece that encapsulates the full spectrum of Prince’s musical genius. Its rich and layered composition evokes a wide range of emotions, showcasing his unparalleled ability to blend diverse genres and create music that is both technically brilliant and deeply affecting. “Diamonds and Pearls” stands as a testament to Prince’s enduring legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
The Enduring Legacy of a Musical Prince
Prince’s impact extends far beyond his impressive discography. He championed self-expression, challenging societal norms through his androgynous persona and pushing boundaries of identity and sexuality in his music and performances. His creative vision and multi-genre approach have influenced generations of musicians and music lovers. Prince’s unwavering advocacy for artist empowerment has reshaped the music industry, leaving an indelible mark on how artists perceive their creative and business autonomy. His music, cultural impact, and innovative spirit ensure that Prince will forever be remembered as a true musical icon.
