Prince. The name alone evokes a sense of musical royalty, and for good reason. Over a career spanning more than four decades, this electrifying artist redefined what it meant to be a musician, pushing the boundaries of pop, rock, funk, and R&B while creating an unparalleled legacy. From his flamboyant style to his genre-blending sound, Prince’s influence on music and culture is undeniable. He wasn’t just an artist—he was a visionary, a provocateur, and a master of reinvention. But perhaps most important of all, Prince was a hitmaker. His catalog is filled with iconic songs that have stood the test of time, each one showcasing his extraordinary versatility and fearless creativity. Whether he was belting out a heartfelt ballad, crafting a funky dance anthem, or shredding on his guitar, Prince knew exactly how to captivate an audience. In this article, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Prince songs of all time—tracks that not only dominated the charts but also captured the hearts of millions around the world. So, let’s dive into the ultimate playlist of a legend, and celebrate the songs that made Prince a musical immortal.
1. “Purple Rain” (1984)
“Purple Rain” became the defining anthem of Prince’s career, released as the title track of his 1984 album. The song, a slow-burning rock ballad, builds to an emotional climax with an unforgettable guitar solo. It’s a masterpiece of emotional storytelling, touching on themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption, and its blend of rock, orchestral elements, and gospel influences gave it a timeless quality. “Purple Rain” also served as the powerful finale in his film of the same name, sealing its place in pop culture history. Its raw emotion, combined with Prince’s captivating performance, made it one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, earning him his first Grammy Award and solidifying his legacy as one of music’s greats.
2. “When Doves Cry” (1984)
A true innovation in pop music, “When Doves Cry” was the lead single from Purple Rain and instantly stood out for its bold absence of a bass line. Released in May 1984, the song’s haunting and minimalist production, paired with Prince’s dynamic vocals, created a unique sonic landscape. The lyrics delve into the complexities of a troubled relationship, and Prince’s performance spans from soft whispers to wailing cries. With its fusion of rock, funk, and electronic music, “When Doves Cry” became an instant classic, topping charts for weeks and marking Prince’s first No. 1 hit. The track remains a testament to his fearless creativity and his ability to push musical boundaries.
3. “Kiss” (1986)
Released in 1986 on the Parade album, “Kiss” marked a turning point in pop music with its minimalist, funky sound. Stripped down to the basics, the track features a sharp, snapping beat, a simple guitar riff, and Prince’s captivating falsetto performance. Despite its sparse arrangement, “Kiss” oozes sensuality, proving that sometimes less is more. The song’s infectious groove and bare-bones production made it a chart-topping hit and earned Prince another Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance. Its playful, flirtatious vibe and irresistible rhythm turned “Kiss” into an instant classic and a fan favorite, showcasing Prince’s mastery in creating genre-defying hits.
4. “1999” (1982)
“1999,” the title track from Prince’s 1982 album, became an anthem for partygoers everywhere. Released during the height of Cold War tensions, the song encouraged people to embrace life despite uncertainty. With its upbeat synths, driving rhythm, and iconic chorus (“Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1999!”), “1999” captured the collective anxiety and optimism of its time. The track’s infectious energy made it a dancefloor staple and marked a major breakthrough in Prince’s career. It launched him to international stardom, becoming one of his most beloved and enduring hits. Even today, the song’s joyful, celebratory spirit continues to resonate.
5. “Let’s Go Crazy” (1984)
Opening with a dramatic, sermon-like monologue, “Let’s Go Crazy” quickly morphs into a high-energy explosion of rock and funk. Released as the second single from Purple Rain, the song became a defining moment in Prince’s career. Its central theme—embracing chaos and living life to the fullest—struck a chord with audiences. The track’s frenzied energy, paired with Prince’s electrifying guitar work, culminates in an unforgettable closing solo. “Let’s Go Crazy” reached No. 1 on the charts in 1984 and solidified Prince’s status as a musical powerhouse, delivering the kind of unbridled passion that made his live performances legendary.
6. “Little Red Corvette” (1983)
“Little Red Corvette,” released in 1983 as the second single from 1999, is a smooth, synth-heavy ode to a passionate yet fleeting romance. The song uses car imagery to describe the fast-paced nature of a wild love affair, creating a perfect balance between sensuality and melancholy. It became one of Prince’s first major crossover hits, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard charts and helping to introduce him to a broader audience. Its polished production, catchy hook, and relatable themes of desire and regret turned “Little Red Corvette” into a radio favorite and solidified Prince’s growing status as a pop icon.
7. “Raspberry Beret” (1985)
“Raspberry Beret,” the standout track from Around the World in a Day (1985), showcased Prince’s more whimsical, light-hearted side. With its breezy, psychedelic pop sound, the song tells the tale of a youthful romance with a girl who wore the titular beret. The lush strings, vibrant harmonies, and carefree vibe mark a departure from his usual funk-driven sound. Despite the stylistic shift, “Raspberry Beret” became a fan favorite, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its infectious charm and playful storytelling highlighted Prince’s versatility as an artist, further cementing his place in music history.
8. “I Would Die 4 U” (1984)
Released in December 1984 as part of the Purple Rain soundtrack, “I Would Die 4 U” is an uptempo, synth-heavy track that blends pop melodies with spiritual undertones. The song explores themes of sacrifice and devotion, with Prince casting himself in a near-messianic light. Its catchy rhythm, danceable beat, and powerful lyrics made it an instant hit. Often performed live, “I Would Die 4 U” became a concert staple and further exemplified the duality in Prince’s music—where spirituality and sensuality coexisted. This track remains one of Prince’s most beloved songs, representing the profound depth of his artistic vision.
9. “Sign o’ the Times” (1987)
“Sign o’ the Times,” the title track from Prince’s 1987 double album, stands as one of his most socially conscious works. The song tackles pressing issues of the time—AIDS, drug addiction, and urban violence—delivered with stark, minimalist production. A pulsating drum machine and sparse synths create an eerie atmosphere, allowing the weight of Prince’s politically charged lyrics to take center stage. This song marked a shift in his songwriting toward more serious, thought-provoking themes and is often hailed as one of his greatest achievements. “Sign o’ the Times” remains a poignant commentary on the challenges of the late 20th century.
10. “Cream” (1991)
“Released in 1991 from the Diamonds and Pearls album, “Cream” showcases Prince at his most playful and seductive. Built on a smooth, slinky groove, the song’s confident lyrics and slick production exude effortless charm. With lines like “You’re so good / Baby, there ain’t nobody better,” the track is filled with swagger and flirtatious energy. “Cream” quickly became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Prince’s place as a master of blending pop with funk. Its catchy hook and irresistible rhythm made it a fan favorite and another standout in Prince’s long list of chart-toppers.
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.
