Few artists in music history have redefined genres, pushed boundaries, and created a body of work as influential as Prince. Known for his unmatched creativity, electrifying stage presence, and genre-blurring style, Prince has given the world an extraordinary catalog of songs that remain timeless. From funky grooves to heart-wrenching ballads, his music transcends generations, constantly evolving but always unmistakably his. With a career spanning over four decades, narrowing down his greatest hits is no easy task, but some tracks stand above the rest for their cultural impact, chart success, and sheer brilliance. These are the songs that defined eras, broke musical barriers, and solidified Prince as one of the most iconic artists of all time. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just beginning to explore his unparalleled legacy, this list of the top 10 most popular Prince songs will take you on a journey through some of the most unforgettable moments in music history. Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Prince, where funk, rock, pop, and soul collide in the most spectacular ways. Let’s celebrate the songs that made the world dance, cry, and party like it’s 1999!
1. “Purple Rain” (1984)
Released as the title track of Prince’s groundbreaking Purple Rain album, “Purple Rain” has long been considered his crowning achievement. This epic blend of rock, soul, and gospel transcends musical genres and stands as a powerful emotional anthem. It begins with a soft, haunting guitar melody that slowly builds into an intense crescendo, leading to one of Prince’s most moving vocal performances. The song’s climactic moment is a blistering guitar solo that has since become iconic. At nearly nine minutes long, “Purple Rain” serves as the perfect conclusion to the album and became a highlight of Prince’s live shows. After his unforgettable Super Bowl performance in 1985, the song gained even more cultural prominence. Today, it’s remembered not just as one of Prince’s most beloved tracks but as one of the greatest songs in rock history.
2. “When Doves Cry” (1984)
“When Doves Cry,” released as the lead single from Purple Rain in 1984, is one of Prince’s most innovative songs. It was his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and is instantly recognizable for its lack of a bassline, a creative decision that gives it an eerie, stripped-down feel. The song starts with a scorching guitar solo before diving into a sparse, almost mechanical rhythm that underscores Prince’s raw, impassioned vocals. The lyrics dive deep into themes of love, pain, and emotional turmoil, giving the track an introspective, haunting quality. Its unconventional structure, merging elements of pop, rock, and funk, was groundbreaking, further cementing Prince’s reputation as a musical visionary. “When Doves Cry” remains one of his most daring and influential works.
3. “Let’s Go Crazy” (1984)
“Let’s Go Crazy” is the explosive opener to Purple Rain, released in 1984. The song grabs listeners’ attention right away with its spoken-word intro, setting a spiritual tone before launching into an energetic blend of rock and funk. The lyrics encourage listeners to embrace life’s chaos and live with reckless abandon, a message that resonated deeply with the energy of the 1980s. The song’s rapid-fire tempo, infectious beat, and electrifying guitar work make it a standout. As the track progresses, Prince delivers an unforgettable guitar solo that demonstrates his extraordinary musical talent. Topping the Billboard charts, “Let’s Go Crazy” became a defining song of the decade and remains one of Prince’s most recognizable anthems, embodying his rebellious spirit.
4. “Kiss” (1986)
Released in 1986 as the lead single from Parade, “Kiss” is a minimalist masterpiece that became an instant classic. Built around a simple but infectious guitar riff, the song’s sparse arrangement allows Prince’s charismatic vocals to take center stage. His playful falsetto and cheeky lyrics about love and attraction give the track a fun, flirtatious vibe. Despite its stripped-down production, “Kiss” packs a punch, and its funky groove made it an immediate hit, topping the charts and earning Prince a Grammy for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Its timeless appeal has made “Kiss” one of Prince’s most enduring hits, continuing to influence artists across genres.
5. “1999” (1982)
“1999” is one of Prince’s ultimate party anthems and remains one of his most iconic songs. Released as the title track of his 1982 album, the song envisions a party at the end of the world, blending Cold War anxieties with a sense of joyous rebellion. The upbeat tempo, driving synths, and chant of “Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1999” have made it a universal celebration anthem. Commercially, “1999” was a massive success, cracking the top 10 in multiple countries and solidifying Prince’s superstar status. Its message of living life to the fullest, despite the uncertainty of the future, continues to resonate, making it a go-to song for parties and major celebrations.
6. “Little Red Corvette” (1983)
Released in 1983 as a single from his 1999 album, “Little Red Corvette” was Prince’s first Top 10 hit and remains one of his most iconic tracks. The song is a seductive, mid-tempo pop ballad that uses a sleek sports car as a metaphor for a fast-paced, fleeting romance. Its dreamy synths, smooth production, and unforgettable chorus perfectly capture the 1980s pop sound while maintaining Prince’s unique blend of rock and R&B. “Little Red Corvette” marked a pivotal moment in Prince’s career, helping him cross over into mainstream success without sacrificing his eclectic, genre-bending style. It’s a classic that has stood the test of time.
7. “Raspberry Beret” (1985)
“Raspberry Beret,” released in 1985 as the lead single from Around the World in a Day, was a departure from Prince’s earlier work. This breezy, psychedelic pop track captures a sense of youthful nostalgia, wrapped in a whimsical, orchestral arrangement complete with strings and tambourines. The song’s carefree lyrics tell the story of a first romantic encounter with a girl wearing a raspberry beret, and its lighthearted, infectious melody made it a hit on both radio and MTV. “Raspberry Beret” showcases Prince’s versatility as a songwriter and his ability to craft pop gems while exploring new musical territories.
8. “Sign o’ the Times” (1987)
Released as the title track of his critically acclaimed 1987 double album, “Sign o’ the Times” is one of Prince’s most socially conscious songs. With its sparse, funk-driven beat and minimalist production, the song addresses pressing issues of the time, including AIDS, drug addiction, and urban violence. Prince’s understated, almost spoken-word delivery lends a haunting urgency to the lyrics, making it a powerful commentary on the state of the world. Despite its heavy themes, “Sign o’ the Times” was a commercial hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, and remains one of Prince’s most thought-provoking and timeless tracks.
9. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” (1979)
“I Wanna Be Your Lover,” from Prince’s second album Prince (1979), was his first major hit, reaching No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song is an irresistible blend of funk, R&B, and pop, showcasing Prince’s early knack for crafting infectious, danceable tracks. His falsetto vocals soar over a lively groove, and the song’s playful lyrics about unrequited love gave it a youthful, exuberant energy. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” not only introduced Prince to a broader audience but also hinted at the artistic brilliance that would define his career in the coming decades. It’s a disco-era favorite that remains timeless.
10. “Cream” (1991)
Released in 1991 as the second single from his Diamonds and Pearls album, “Cream” is a smooth, seductive track that blends bluesy rock with pop swagger. Written as a self-empowerment anthem, Prince reportedly penned the song while looking in the mirror, and the lyrics reflect a confident, self-assured attitude. The song’s sultry groove and seductive vocal delivery made it a chart-topping hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Cream” is a perfect example of Prince’s ability to combine sex appeal with musical finesse, further solidifying his reputation as one of the most versatile and influential artists of his generation.
Samuel Moore 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.
