Prince. The name alone evokes a sense of magic, rebellion, and unparalleled artistry. A musical genius who defied genres, Prince didn’t just create songs—he created worlds. From electrifying funk grooves to heart-wrenching ballads, his ability to innovate and push boundaries remains unmatched. Over the course of his prolific career, Prince gave us an overwhelming catalog of hits that have stood the test of time, each one bursting with raw emotion, infectious energy, and his signature flair for the unexpected.
With his untouchable talent as a singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Prince redefined what it meant to be a pop icon. Whether it’s the searing guitar solos of Purple Rain, the hypnotic beat of When Doves Cry, or the funk-fueled swagger of Kiss, every track is a testament to his genius. And let’s not forget his poetic and provocative lyrics—he made us dance, cry, and think, often all at once.
In celebration of his incredible legacy, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most popular Prince songs of all time. These aren’t just songs—they’re milestones in music history. So turn up the volume, let’s dive in, and relive the magic of the one and only Prince!
1. Purple Rain (1984)
Released on June 25, 1984, “Purple Rain” stands as Prince’s magnum opus and one of the most iconic songs in music history. Seamlessly blending rock, gospel, and soul, the track is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and redemption. At nearly nine minutes long, “Purple Rain” begins as a tender ballad before building to a soaring guitar solo that has become legendary. The song was recorded live during a Minneapolis concert, capturing the raw emotion and energy of Prince and his band, The Revolution. It serves as the title track for both the album and the film, cementing its place in popular culture. Winning Prince his first Grammy, “Purple Rain” transcended music, becoming a cultural touchstone and a timeless anthem of emotional depth and musical brilliance.
2. When Doves Cry (1984)
Released on May 16, 1984, “When Doves Cry” was unlike anything the world had heard before. As the lead single from Purple Rain, it broke musical conventions with its haunting, minimalist arrangement and complete absence of a bassline—a bold move that only Prince could pull off. He played every instrument on the track, demonstrating his unparalleled artistry and creativity. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and family strife, resonating deeply with listeners. Its fusion of funk, rock, and electronic elements created a sound that felt ahead of its time. “When Doves Cry” became Prince’s first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying his place as a musical innovator. More than a song, it’s an immersive experience that continues to captivate decades later.
3. 1999 (1982)
Released on September 24, 1982, “1999” is a celebratory anthem that became synonymous with joy and freedom. The track opens with a booming synthesizer riff that sets the tone for its infectious energy. With lyrics like “Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1999,” Prince captured the exhilaration of living in the moment, even in the face of uncertainty. The song’s blend of funk, rock, and new wave gave it a timeless quality that still electrifies dance floors today. “1999” was a breakthrough hit, catapulting Prince to international stardom and solidifying his reputation as a musical visionary. Decades later, it remains a go-to track for celebrations and a symbol of pure, unadulterated fun.
4. Kiss (1986)
Released on February 5, 1986, “Kiss” is a minimalist funk masterpiece that epitomizes Prince’s ability to create magic with simplicity. Originally written as an acoustic demo, Prince transformed it into a sleek, sultry groove featuring falsetto vocals and a hypnotic guitar riff. The song’s stripped-down production highlights Prince’s innovative approach to music, proving that less can indeed be more. Featured on the Parade album, “Kiss” became an instant classic, earning Prince a Grammy for Best R&B Performance. Its playful, cheeky lyrics and irresistible rhythm have kept it a dancefloor favorite for decades. “Kiss” isn’t just a song—it’s an experience in seduction and musical ingenuity.
5. Little Red Corvette (1983)
Released on February 9, 1983, “Little Red Corvette” was a defining moment in Prince’s career, marking his first Top 10 hit and cementing his place in mainstream music. A masterful blend of pop-rock and funk, the song uses the metaphor of a car to tell a story of fleeting romance and passion. Prince’s clever, seductive lyrics and cinematic production give the track a dreamy, atmospheric quality. The shimmering synths and electrifying guitar solo make “Little Red Corvette” feel like a journey, capturing both the thrill and vulnerability of love. It became one of the most iconic songs of the 1980s, showcasing Prince’s unparalleled ability to craft music that’s both catchy and deeply meaningful.
6. Raspberry Beret (1985)
Released on May 15, 1985, “Raspberry Beret” is a delightful, whimsical gem from Prince’s Around the World in a Day album. With its breezy melody, lush string arrangement, and nostalgic lyrics, the song paints a vivid picture of youthful romance and carefree joy. Prince’s storytelling takes center stage as he recounts a charming love affair with a girl in a raspberry-colored beret, capturing the magic of fleeting moments. The track’s playful energy and singalong chorus made it an instant hit, earning a spot in the Top 10 of the Billboard charts. “Raspberry Beret” is a testament to Prince’s ability to experiment with unique sounds while delivering infectious pop that stands the test of time.
7. Let’s Go Crazy (1984)
Released on July 18, 1984, “Let’s Go Crazy” kicks off the Purple Rain album with an electrifying sermon-like monologue that urges listeners to embrace life’s highs and overcome its challenges. Prince’s opening line, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life,” is nothing short of iconic. The track quickly transforms into a frenetic blend of rock, funk, and gospel, driven by Prince’s blistering guitar riffs and electrifying energy. “Let’s Go Crazy” became a No. 1 hit and a cornerstone of Prince’s live performances, where its powerful message and high-octane sound never failed to ignite audiences.
8. I Wanna Be Your Lover (1979)
Released on August 24, 1979, “I Wanna Be Your Lover” introduced the world to Prince’s unique musical genius. The track’s irresistible groove, playful lyrics, and falsetto-driven vocals made it an instant R&B chart-topper and a favorite on dance floors everywhere. With its blend of funk, disco, and pop, the song showcased Prince’s versatility and charm at the very start of his career. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” is seductive and infectious, laying the foundation for the groundbreaking work that would follow and establishing Prince as a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
9. Sign o’ the Times (1987)
Released on February 18, 1987, “Sign o’ the Times” is one of Prince’s most thought-provoking works, addressing pressing social issues with unflinching honesty. Over a sparse, drum-machine-driven beat, Prince tackles topics like poverty, AIDS, drug abuse, and nuclear war, creating a track that is both stark and powerful. The minimalist production allows the gravity of his lyrics to shine, making the song a poignant reflection on the state of the world. Critically acclaimed, “Sign o’ the Times” demonstrated Prince’s ability to combine social commentary with his signature sound, solidifying his legacy as both a musical innovator and a cultural commentator.
10. Cream (1991)
Released on September 9, 1991, “Cream” is a sultry, blues-infused track that radiates confidence and charm. Featured on the Diamonds and Pearls album, the song was inspired by Prince’s belief that he had created the perfect pop hit. And he wasn’t wrong—”Cream” became his fifth No. 1 single on the Billboard Hot 100, thanks to its seductive groove and cheeky lyrics. The track’s smooth rhythm and Prince’s playful delivery make it an undeniable standout in his catalog. “Cream” perfectly encapsulates Prince’s ability to blend sensuality with musical brilliance, leaving an indelible mark on listeners and fans alike.
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.
