Prince Rogers Nelson, popularly known as Prince, was one of the most influential musicians of his generation. Over the course of his four-decade-long career, he produced a vast catalog of songs that spanned multiple genres, including rock, funk, pop, and R&B. His music was known for its innovative sound, provocative lyrics, and stunning live performances. Prince’s untimely death in 2016 was a great loss to the music world, but his legacy lives on through his timeless music.
In this article, we celebrate the life and music of Prince by counting down his 10 best songs of all time. From the funky grooves of “Kiss” to the rock-tinged “Purple Rain,” these songs showcase Prince’s immense talent and range as a musician. Whether you’re a die-hard Prince fan or a casual listener, this list will give you a glimpse into the genius of one of music’s greatest icons. So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the top 10 best Prince songs of all time
1. 1999
“1999” is a classic dance track from Prince’s 1982 album of the same name. The song is an upbeat celebration of life and the joy of partying, with its infectious beat and catchy chorus. The lyrics, which were written during the height of Cold War tensions, also carry a subtle message of hope and resilience in the face of global uncertainty. The song’s iconic opening hook, “Don’t worry, I won’t hurt you, I only want you to have some fun,” sets the tone for a high-energy dance floor anthem that has stood the test of time. “1999” is widely regarded as one of Prince’s signature songs, and has been covered by countless artists over the years. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the enduring appeal of Prince’s music, and his status as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
2. I Would Die 4 U
“I Would Die 4 U” is a track from Prince’s iconic 1984 album, “Purple Rain.” It is a powerful, emotional ballad that showcases Prince’s talent as both a songwriter and a performer. The song’s lyrics speak to the intensity of romantic love, with Prince proclaiming that he would do anything for his beloved. The chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “I would die for you,” is particularly memorable, and has become one of Prince’s most famous and beloved musical moments. Musically, the song is characterized by its driving beat, lush synthesizers, and soaring guitar solos, all of which contribute to the overall sense of drama and urgency. “I Would Die 4 U” is a true classic in Prince’s catalog, and a testament to his status as one of the most gifted and innovative musicians of his generation.
3. When Doves Cry
“When Doves Cry” is one of Prince’s most famous and influential songs, released in 1984 as the lead single from his “Purple Rain” album. The song’s distinctive sound, with its pulsing beat, haunting synthesizers, and absence of bass guitar, was groundbreaking at the time, and helped to define the sound of 80s pop and rock music. The lyrics, which touch on themes of love, sex, and family dysfunction, are also deeply evocative, and Prince’s vocal performance is particularly intense and raw. The song’s chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “how can you just leave me standing, alone in a world that’s so cold,” has become one of the most iconic moments in all of pop music. “When Doves Cry” is a true classic, and a testament to Prince’s innovative and boundary-pushing approach to music-making.
4. I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man
“I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man” is a rock-infused track from Prince’s 1987 album, “Sign o’ the Times.” The song features a driving guitar riff, catchy chorus, and a memorable saxophone solo, all of which help to make it one of Prince’s most enduring and beloved songs. Lyrically, the song is a lament about unrequited love, with Prince admitting that he can never replace the person his lover truly desires. Despite its somewhat melancholy subject matter, “I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man” is an upbeat and energetic track that showcases Prince’s remarkable versatility as a musician. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a beloved classic in the Prince canon.
5. Raspberry Beret
“Raspberry Beret” is a lively and upbeat song from Prince’s 1985 album, “Around the World in a Day.” The song features a catchy melody, cheerful lyrics, and a driving beat that make it an instant earworm. The lyrics tell the story of a young woman named Raspberry Beret, who catches Prince’s eye with her unique style and quirky personality. The song’s playful, almost childlike tone, is in keeping with the album’s overall psychedelic and whimsical vibe. “Raspberry Beret” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Prince a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Song. Today, it remains a beloved classic in the Prince catalog, and a testament to his enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and creative musicians of his generation.
6. The Beautiful Ones
“The Beautiful Ones” is a soulful ballad from Prince’s iconic 1984 album, “Purple Rain.” The song features a slow and sensuous melody, with Prince’s soaring vocals conveying the intensity of romantic longing and desire. The lyrics are deeply emotive, with Prince pleading with his lover to choose him over all others. Musically, the song is characterized by its lush production, with a combination of strings, synthesizers, and electric guitar creating a dreamy, ethereal sound. “The Beautiful Ones” is a standout track on an album filled with classics, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Prince’s status as one of the greatest musical icons of all time.
7. Purple Rain
“Purple Rain” is the title track and emotional centerpiece of Prince’s landmark 1984 album and accompanying film of the same name. The song is a powerful and cathartic ballad that showcases Prince’s remarkable vocal range and emotional depth. The lyrics touch on themes of heartbreak, loss, and redemption, with Prince’s soaring vocals and searing guitar solos conveying the intensity of his emotions. The song’s iconic chorus, with its repetition of the phrase “I only wanted to see you bathing in the purple rain,” has become one of the most famous and beloved moments in all of pop music. “Purple Rain” is a true classic, and a testament to Prince’s singular talent and vision as a musician and artist.
8. Kiss
“Kiss” is a funky and infectious track from Prince’s 1986 album, “Parade.” The song features a catchy guitar riff, sparse drumbeat, and Prince’s signature falsetto vocals, all of which combine to create a playful and upbeat dance floor anthem. The lyrics are cheeky and flirtatious, with Prince crooning lines like “You don’t have to be rich to be my girl, you don’t have to be cool to rule my world.” “Kiss” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and earning Prince a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance. Today, it remains one of his most popular and beloved songs, and has been covered by a wide variety of artists over the years. “Kiss” is a testament to Prince’s remarkable talent and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest musicians of all time.
9. Darling Nikki
“Darling Nikki” is a provocative and controversial track from Prince’s landmark 1984 album, “Purple Rain.” The song’s explicit lyrics and sexual content caused a stir at the time of its release, and led to the creation of the Parental Advisory label for explicit content. Musically, the song is characterized by its driving beat, distorted guitar riffs, and Prince’s suggestive vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a seductive woman named Nikki, who leads Prince on a wild and sensual journey. Despite its controversial subject matter, “Darling Nikki” has become a beloved classic in the Prince catalog, and is a testament to his willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms through his music.
10. Little Red Corvette
“Little Red Corvette” is a classic track from Prince’s 1982 album, “1999.” The song features a pulsing beat, catchy chorus, and Prince’s trademark falsetto vocals, all of which combine to create an infectious and upbeat pop anthem. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is like a little red Corvette, fast and exciting but ultimately unattainable. Musically, the song is characterized by its driving rhythm guitar and electrifying synthesizer solos. “Little Red Corvette” was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning Prince a Grammy nomination for Best Rock Performance. Today, it remains a beloved classic in the Prince catalog, and a testament to his ability to blend rock, funk, and pop influences into a unique and irresistible sound.
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.
