Prince Rogers Nelson, known mononymously as Prince, was an American singer, songwriter, musician, record producer, and actor. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of all time and was known for his eclectic and innovative music style that blended funk, rock, R&B, and pop. Over the course of his four-decade career, Prince released 39 studio albums, sold over 150 million records, won seven Grammy Awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004.
Prince’s music has left an indelible mark on popular culture, and his influence can be felt across multiple genres of music. From the iconic guitar riff of “Purple Rain” to the infectious groove of “Kiss,” Prince’s songs have become timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences today. In this article, we will explore the top 20 best Prince songs of all time, highlighting the tracks that best represent the genius of this musical icon. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual listener, this list is sure to showcase the breadth and depth of Prince’s incredible musical legacy.
1. “Purple Rain”
“Purple Rain” is a legendary power ballad by the iconic musician Prince. Released in 1984 as the title track to his album and film of the same name, the song is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time. It features a slow, melodic guitar solo that builds to a climax, accompanied by Prince’s soaring vocals and a haunting keyboard riff. The lyrics are emotionally charged, telling the story of a troubled romantic relationship, and the title refers to the metaphorical “purple rain” that falls during the stormy ending. The song has become a cultural touchstone and is often played at weddings, funerals, and other significant events. Its impact and enduring popularity are a testament to Prince’s musical genius and the timeless quality of his art.
2. “Kiss”
“Kiss” is a hit song by the legendary musician Prince, released in 1986 as the lead single from his album “Parade.” The song has a unique and infectious sound, featuring a funky guitar riff, electronic beats, and Prince’s distinctive falsetto vocals. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, with Prince inviting a love interest to kiss him rather than waste time with conversation. The song was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it remains a beloved classic in Prince’s vast catalogue of music. “Kiss” showcases Prince’s unparalleled talent as a musician, songwriter, and performer, and its catchy beat and infectious energy have made it a dancefloor staple for decades.
3. “When Doves Cry”
“When Doves Cry” is a timeless classic by the legendary musician Prince, released in 1984 as the lead single from his album “Purple Rain.” The song features a unique and memorable sound, with its signature synth riff, driving drumbeat, and Prince’s emotive vocals. The lyrics describe a troubled romantic relationship, with Prince expressing his frustration and confusion about the situation. The song’s impact was immediate and immense, becoming Prince’s first number-one single and earning critical acclaim for its groundbreaking sound and unconventional structure. “When Doves Cry” is a testament to Prince’s immense musical talent and innovative approach to pop music, and it continues to inspire and influence artists across genres to this day.
4. “Nothing Compares 2 U”
“Nothing Compares 2 U” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by Irish singer-songwriter Sinéad O’Connor, originally written by Prince for his band The Family in 1985. O’Connor’s version, released in 1990, features sparse instrumentation and her emotive, powerful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a broken relationship, with O’Connor’s vulnerable performance capturing the pain and heartache of lost love. The song’s simple, stripped-down arrangement allows the emotional depth of the lyrics and O’Connor’s voice to take center stage, making it a powerful and enduring masterpiece. “Nothing Compares 2 U” has become an iconic song, frequently covered by other artists and widely regarded as one of the greatest ballads of all time. Its impact and longevity are a testament to the universal themes of love and loss that it explores, and to the power of great songwriting and performance to move and inspire listeners.
5. “Erotic City”
“Erotic City” is a provocative and funky dance track by the iconic musician Prince, originally released as a B-side to his hit single “Let’s Go Crazy” in 1984. The song features a groovy bassline, electronic beats, and Prince’s sultry vocals, with lyrics that are both suggestive and playful. The song’s hook, “All of my purple life, I’ve been looking for a dame, that would want to be my wife, that was my intention, babe,” has become a classic Prince lyric, showcasing his unique style and irreverent approach to sexuality. “Erotic City” was a hit on dancefloors and clubs around the world, and its enduring popularity is a testament to Prince’s ability to create music that is both infectious and boundary-pushing. The song remains a beloved classic in Prince’s vast catalogue of music, and a testament to his legacy as a pioneering artist who pushed the boundaries of genre, identity, and sexuality.
6. “The Cross”
“The Cross” is a powerful and moving rock ballad by the iconic musician Prince, released in 1987 as the closing track to his album “Sign o’ the Times.” The song features a soaring guitar solo, driving drums, and Prince’s impassioned vocals, with lyrics that explore themes of faith, redemption, and personal struggle. The song’s chorus, “I’ll never break the cross, if you don’t believe in God, how can you believe in love,” showcases Prince’s unique blend of spirituality and sexuality, and the song’s emotional intensity has made it a fan favorite and a staple of Prince’s live performances. “The Cross” is a testament to Prince’s immense talent as a musician and songwriter, and its enduring popularity is a tribute to the universality of its themes and the power of music to inspire and uplift listeners.
7. “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?”
“How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?” is a soulful and emotive ballad by the legendary musician Prince, originally released as the B-side to his 1982 single “1999.” The song features Prince’s plaintive vocals accompanied by a simple piano melody, with lyrics that express the pain and confusion of a failed relationship. The song’s chorus, “How come you don’t call me anymore?” has become a classic Prince lyric, and the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Alicia Keys, who had a hit with her version in 2002. “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?” is a testament to Prince’s immense talent as a songwriter and performer, and its emotional depth and universal themes of heartbreak and loss have made it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
8. “Raspberry Beret”
“Raspberry Beret” is a fun and playful pop-rock song by the iconic musician Prince, released in 1985 as the lead single from his album “Around the World in a Day.” The song features a bouncy guitar riff, upbeat drums, and Prince’s signature falsetto vocals, with lyrics that tell the story of a young man’s encounter with a girl wearing a raspberry beret. The song’s catchy chorus, “She wore a raspberry beret, the kind you find in a second-hand store,” has become a classic Prince lyric, and the song’s infectious energy and carefree spirit have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Prince’s live performances. “Raspberry Beret” is a testament to Prince’s ability to blend different musical styles and create music that is both accessible and innovative, and its enduring popularity is a tribute to his legacy as one of the greatest and most influential artists of all time.
9. “Ballad of Dorothy Parker”
“Ballad of Dorothy Parker” is a jazzy and experimental song by the iconic musician Prince, released in 1987 as the second track on his album “Sign o’ the Times.” The song features a sparse and funky groove, with Prince’s vocals delivered in a conversational style, and lyrics that tell the story of a chance encounter with a mysterious woman in a hotel lobby. The song’s unconventional structure and unpredictable shifts in mood and tempo reflect Prince’s restless creativity and willingness to take risks as an artist, and the song’s surreal imagery and cryptic narrative have made it a fan favorite and a cult classic among Prince’s devoted followers. “Ballad of Dorothy Parker” is a prime example of Prince’s unique and innovative approach to music-making, and its enduring popularity is a testament to his status as one of the most visionary and influential artists of his generation.
10. “The Beautiful Ones”
“The Beautiful Ones” is a haunting and emotionally charged ballad by the iconic musician Prince, released in 1984 as the third single from his album “Purple Rain.” The song features Prince’s impassioned vocals, accompanied by a simple piano melody and sparse instrumentation, with lyrics that express the anguish of unrequited love. The song’s dramatic build-up and explosive climax, with Prince’s signature guitar solo and falsetto wails, make it one of his most powerful and memorable performances. “The Beautiful Ones” is a testament to Prince’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music, and its themes of longing, desire, and heartbreak have resonated with listeners for decades. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Prince’s status as one of the greatest and most influential artists of all time, and a reminder of his extraordinary talent and legacy as a musician and performer.
11. “7”
“7” is an upbeat and infectious song by the legendary musician Prince, released in 1992 as the second single from his album “Symbol.” The song features a driving rhythm, catchy guitar riff, and a chorus that encourages listeners to “come on and dance” and celebrate life. The song’s lyrics also touch on spiritual themes, with references to the seven deadly sins and the Book of Revelation, reflecting Prince’s deep interest in religion and spirituality. “7” showcases Prince’s musical versatility and his ability to blend genres and styles, combining elements of rock, funk, and gospel into a seamless and energetic whole. The song’s upbeat and positive message has made it a fan favorite and a staple of Prince’s live shows, and its infectious energy and joyful spirit continue to inspire and uplift listeners today.
12. “Most Beautiful Girl In The World”
“Most Beautiful Girl In The World” is a romantic and soulful ballad by the iconic musician Prince, released in 1994 as a single from his album “The Gold Experience.” The song features a lush orchestral arrangement, with strings, horns, and piano providing a lush backdrop for Prince’s smooth and heartfelt vocals. The lyrics express Prince’s awe and admiration for a woman who is the “most beautiful girl in the world,” capturing the magic and wonder of falling in love. The song’s romantic sentiment and Prince’s passionate delivery make it one of his most beloved and memorable tracks, and it remains a favorite of fans and critics alike. “Most Beautiful Girl In The World” showcases Prince’s songwriting and vocal talents, as well as his ability to craft songs that speak to the heart and soul, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest artists of all time.
13. “Let’s Go Crazy”
“Let’s Go Crazy” is a high-energy and electrifying track from Prince’s iconic 1984 album “Purple Rain.” The song opens with a sermon-like spoken-word intro, in which Prince declares “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life,” before launching into a frenzied guitar riff that sets the tone for the rest of the song. With its upbeat tempo, driving beat, and infectious chorus, “Let’s Go Crazy” is a celebration of life and the joys of living in the moment. Prince’s passionate and exuberant vocals are matched by his virtuosic guitar playing, which reaches a frenzied climax in the song’s iconic guitar solo. The song’s message of living life to the fullest and embracing the moment has resonated with fans for decades, making it one of Prince’s most enduring and beloved tracks.
15. “Controversy”
“Controversy” is a provocative and socially conscious track from Prince’s eponymous 1981 album. The song opens with a funky bassline and Prince’s falsetto vocals, before launching into a politically charged commentary on issues such as racial identity, sexuality, and religious beliefs. The song’s lyrics are filled with provocative questions and statements, challenging listeners to confront their own prejudices and preconceptions. Musically, “Controversy” is a masterful blend of funk, rock, and electronic elements, showcasing Prince’s innovative and genre-defying approach to music. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus have made it a fan favorite and a staple of Prince’s live performances. Overall, “Controversy” is a bold and daring statement from one of music’s most fearless and boundary-pushing artists.
16. “A Love Bizarre”
“A Love Bizarre” is a funky and upbeat duet between Prince and Sheila E, released in 1985. The song is known for its infectious bassline, catchy guitar riffs, and energetic drumming. The lyrics speak of an unconventional love that is full of surprises and challenges. Prince and Sheila E. trade vocals throughout the song, with Prince’s falsetto adding an extra layer of sensuality to the already sultry track. The song’s instrumental break features a blistering guitar solo by Prince, showcasing his virtuosity on the instrument. “A Love Bizarre” is considered a classic example of Prince’s unique blend of funk, rock, and pop, and remains a fan favorite to this day.
17. “Sometimes It Snows In April”
“Sometimes It Snows In April” is a poignant ballad by Prince that appears on his 1986 album Parade. The song features Prince’s emotive vocals and a sparse arrangement that consists primarily of piano and strings. Lyrically, the song reflects on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death, as Prince sings about the loss of a loved one and the sadness that accompanies it. The song takes on added significance as Prince himself passed away in April of 2016, lending the song an even greater sense of melancholy and reflection. Despite its somber subject matter, “Sometimes It Snows In April” remains one of Prince’s most beloved and enduring ballads, a testament to the singer’s ability to convey complex emotions through his music.
18. “I Feel For You”
“I Feel For You” is a funk and R&B song originally written and recorded by Prince, but it was Chaka Khan’s version that made it a hit in 1984. The song features Prince’s iconic synthesizer riff and a rap verse that was considered ahead of its time. The song is an upbeat, danceable track that showcases both Khan’s powerful vocals and Prince’s musical prowess. The combination of the two artists results in an infectious, feel-good song that became a classic of the era. “I Feel For You” won Prince a Grammy award for Best R&B Song in 1985 and remains one of his most popular compositions, a testament to his songwriting and musical influence.
19. “Little Red Corvette”
Released in 1983, “Little Red Corvette” is a classic song by the legendary artist Prince. The song features a catchy synth-pop melody, rock guitar riffs, and Prince’s soulful vocals. The song is about a man who meets a woman at a party and has a one-night stand with her. The little red Corvette is a metaphor for the woman, as she is sleek, fast, and sexy. The lyrics describe the man’s longing for the woman and his regret for not being able to have a deeper connection with her. The song’s popularity helped to establish Prince as a major force in pop music and paved the way for his later success. “Little Red Corvette” is considered to be one of Prince’s most recognizable and enduring songs, a true classic of the 1980s.
20. “Diamonds and Pearls”
“Diamonds and Pearls” is a song by Prince, featuring the backing band The New Power Generation, released in 1991. The song is known for its catchy chorus and smooth melody, with Prince’s signature falsetto vocals accompanied by a pulsating beat and pop-infused instrumentation. The lyrics revolve around the idea of material possessions such as diamonds and pearls not being able to compare to the value of true love and companionship. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming a popular radio hit. The music video features Prince and his band performing in a studio setting with colorful lighting and extravagant costumes, further emphasizing the song’s theme of luxury and glamour. “Diamonds and Pearls” remains a beloved classic in Prince’s catalog, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend various musical genres and create infectious pop hits.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
