Very few musicians have had the profound impact on the world that Prince has left behind. His untimely passing in 2016 momentarily halted the world, shaking fans and music lovers alike. A gifted musician and artist, Prince redefined genres with his unique style. Through an impressive catalog of over three dozen studio albums, including a posthumous release, and more than 100 million records sold globally, he has cemented himself as a music legend.
Prince’s career is one of the most remarkable in music history, full of iconic music videos and unforgettable live performances. It is nearly impossible to capture his essence with just a few albums or even songs. As we approach the ninth anniversary of his passing, fans worldwide take this time to celebrate his legacy, listening to his music in heartfelt remembrance. In this spirit, let’s reflect on ten of Prince’s most significant hits that encapsulated his extraordinary career and showcase a talent that is truly rare.
1 1999
The Party Anthem of the ’80s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rblt2EtFfC4
Inspired by a documentary detailing Nostradamus’s apocalyptic prophecies, Prince crafted “1999”as a celebration of life in the face of impending doom. He envisioned a time when humanity would abandon its fears and party non-stop leading up to the millennium. This juxtaposition of chaos and joy is a hallmark of Prince’s artistry, encapsulating the light and dark in life.
2 Let’s Go Crazy
Celebrating Life’s Challenges
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aXJhDltzYVQ
Beginning with a powerful preacher’s address, “Let’s Go Crazy”opens with a unique energy that primes listeners for an uplifting journey through life’s complexities.
Dearly beloved
We are gathered here today
To get through this thing called “life”
This stark contrast between mortality and celebration underlies its joyful rhythm
3 Kiss
A Cultural Landmark, Thanks in Part to Julia Roberts
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H9tEvfIsDyo
Showcasing Prince’s exceptional vocal range, “Kiss”features an effortless falsetto and unique instrumentation that a traditional pop song could scarcely achieve. With a catchy groove and cheeky lyrics that call for romance, its seductive energy was immortalized further when Julia Roberts famously sang it in “Pretty Woman.”
You don’t have to be rich to be my girl
You don’t have to be cool to rule my world
4 Raspberry Beret
A Stellar Fusion of Strings and Synths
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7vRSu_wsNc
Featured on the 1984 album, “Around the World in a Day,”“Raspberry Beret”captivates with its intricate layers of string instruments and a lively percussion backdrop. This artistic choice creates a warm and nostalgic ambiance, embodying the imagery of young love. The song peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, reminding listeners of its timeless appeal.
5 Little Red Corvette
Prince’s Breakthrough Hit
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0KpfrJE4zw
As the lead single from the album “1999,”“Little Red Corvette”marked a significant commercial milestone by reaching the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 for the first time. The metaphor-rich lyrics ingeniously liken romance to driving a car, packed with sensual overtones. Its innovative use of synthesizers creates an otherworldly soundscape that has resonated with listeners since its debut.
6 Purple Rain
The Ultimate Prince Ballad
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvnYmWpD_T8
Undoubtedly his most defining song, “Purple Rain”stands out as Prince’s most streamed track, blending rich lyrical depth with a hauntingly beautiful melody. This seminal piece invokes imagery of emotional tumult and catharsis while showcasing Prince’s vocal and instrumental prowess. The accompanying album and film featured this track, symbolizing the high point of his artistic journey.
7 Sign ‘O’ The Times
A Masterclass in Experimental Sound
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EdxM72EZ94
Characterized by a blend of synthesizers and profound lyricism, “Sign O’ The Times”addresses pressing social issues and human struggles. It demonstrates Prince’s willingness to tackle uncomfortable truths head-on, all while pushing creative boundaries. This track cemented his reputation for marrying thought-provoking content with innovative sound.
8 I Wanna Be Your Lover
The Dawn of a Musical Prodigy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rp8WL621uGM
As the lead single from his self-titled 1979 album, “I Wanna Be Your Lover”encapsulates the sound of Prince’s formative years. While displaying his vocal talents, it contrasts considerably with his later more provocative style. This track is significant as it marked the beginning of his rise in the music scene, reaching number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100.
9 When Doves Cry
The Chart-Topping Breakthrough
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG3VcCAlUgE
Released as a single in 1984, “When Doves Cry”marked Prince’s first number one hit on the Billboard Hot 100, dominating for five consecutive weeks. Featuring a striking guitar solo and emotionally charged vocals that demonstrate his versatility, this song represents a pivotal moment in his career, showcasing both his lyrical and instrumental mastery.
10 Controversy
A Prelude to Artistic Evolution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4gazNwzC4H0
As the title track of his 1981 album, “Controversy”encapsulates the angst and societal discussions surrounding identity and sexuality. This song cleverly blends introspection with genre-defying sound, an early indicator of the daring evolution that characterized Prince’s career. With Prince masterfully handling multiple instrumental roles, this track holds up as a timeless piece.