Few artists have ever matched the genius, charisma, and sheer artistic innovation of Prince. A true musical pioneer, he effortlessly blended genres—funk, rock, pop, R&B, and soul—into a sound that was uniquely his own. With his flamboyant style, electrifying stage presence, and unrivaled musicianship, Prince became a pop culture icon, leaving an indelible mark on music history. Over the course of his illustrious career, he released an astonishing catalog of hits, each showcasing his boundless creativity and fearless experimentation. Whether he was penning party anthems, heartfelt ballads, or socially conscious masterpieces, Prince had a knack for creating timeless music that resonated with audiences around the globe.
In this article, we’ll revisit the top 10 most popular Prince songs of all time—tracks that not only dominated the charts but also defined his legacy. From the anthemic power of “Purple Rain” to the boundary-breaking brilliance of “When Doves Cry,” these songs represent the very best of an artist who constantly redefined what music could be. Each track is a testament to Prince’s genius, his ability to connect on a deeply emotional level, and his enduring influence on generations of musicians and fans alike. Get ready to dive into the unforgettable hits from the one and only Prince.
1. Purple Rain (1984)
Released in June 1984, “Purple Rain” is more than just a song—it’s a monumental moment in music history. As the title track of Prince’s groundbreaking album and movie, this sweeping power ballad blends rock, gospel, and orchestral elements to create a soul-stirring masterpiece. The lyrics, drenched in longing, love, and redemption, resonate deeply with listeners, while Prince’s emotionally charged guitar solo cements his legacy as a musical genius. The song became an anthem of resilience and vulnerability, earning Prince an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for the Purple Rain film. Beyond its accolades, “Purple Rain” is a transcendent piece of art—part cinematic experience, part emotional journey. Decades later, its timeless appeal continues to captivate audiences, proving that this track is not just a highlight of Prince’s career but one of the greatest songs ever created.
2. When Doves Cry (1984)
In May 1984, Prince shocked the world with “When Doves Cry,” a track that rewrote the rules of pop music. With no bassline—a bold and unconventional choice—the song relies on haunting synths, intricate guitar work, and Prince’s deeply personal lyrics to leave a lasting impression. Exploring themes of love, conflict, and emotional vulnerability, it struck a chord with listeners worldwide. Spending five weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, “When Doves Cry” became Prince’s first chart-topping hit and solidified his reputation as a fearless innovator. The song’s raw, minimalist production and genre-defying sound felt revolutionary in 1984 and still feel fresh today. It’s not just a song; it’s an experience, a testament to Prince’s unmatched ability to push musical boundaries while creating something profoundly relatable.
3. Kiss (1986)
“Kiss,” released in February 1986, is Prince at his most seductive, playful, and effortlessly cool. Initially written as a bare-bones demo for another artist, Prince reclaimed the track and transformed it into a funk-driven masterpiece. The song’s minimalist groove, razor-sharp guitar licks, and falsetto vocals ooze charisma and energy, proving that less truly is more. The cheeky, flirtatious lyrics combined with the infectious rhythm made “Kiss” an instant classic, earning Prince a Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance and a spot at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its stripped-down production highlights Prince’s genius as a musician who could make even the simplest arrangements sound groundbreaking. “Kiss” remains an enduring staple in his catalog, a song that invites listeners to dance, smile, and fall under Prince’s spell.
4. 1999 (1982)
Few songs define an era like Prince’s “1999.” Released in September 1982 as the title track of his fifth studio album, this electrifying anthem is a celebration of life in uncertain times. With its iconic line, “Tonight we’re gonna party like it’s 1999,” the song became a rallying cry for joy and liberation, set against a backdrop of funky synths, layered vocals, and an irresistibly danceable beat. As Prince’s breakthrough hit on the pop charts, “1999” marked the moment he became a global phenomenon. Its apocalyptic yet celebratory tone perfectly captured the zeitgeist of the 1980s while cementing its place as a timeless party anthem. Decades later, it’s impossible not to feel the same sense of exhilaration every time that unmistakable opening chord kicks in.
5. Little Red Corvette (1983)
“Little Red Corvette,” released in February 1983, was Prince’s first mainstream hit, and it’s easy to see why. A seamless blend of rock and funk, the song captures the thrill of fleeting romance and reckless passion through its evocative lyrics and automotive metaphors. Prince’s delivery strikes the perfect balance between vulnerability and swagger, drawing listeners into a story that feels both intimate and cinematic. As one of the first Black artists to gain heavy rotation on MTV, Prince used “Little Red Corvette” to break barriers and introduce his unique artistry to a broader audience. The track’s infectious melody and heartfelt emotion made it a top 10 hit, and its legacy as a pop classic endures.
6. Let’s Go Crazy (1984)
“Let’s Go Crazy,” released in July 1984, is a fiery anthem that inspires listeners to embrace life’s chaos with joy and defiance. Opening with Prince’s now-iconic monologue, the song builds into an explosive fusion of rock, funk, and pop, driven by blistering guitar solos and an unrelenting beat. Its lyrics are both a celebration of life’s highs and a rallying cry against despair, urging listeners to live with passion and purpose. As a standout track from the Purple Rain soundtrack, “Let’s Go Crazy” became a #1 hit and one of Prince’s most electrifying performances. It’s more than a song—it’s a moment of pure exhilaration and one of the ultimate feel-good tracks of all time.
7. Raspberry Beret (1985)
In May 1985, Prince delivered a dose of pure nostalgia with “Raspberry Beret,” a sunny, whimsical track from the Around the World in a Day album. Departing from the funk-heavy sound of his earlier work, this song leans into a breezy, psychedelic vibe, complete with lush strings and an infectious melody. The lyrics tell a charming story of young love and a memorable romantic encounter with a girl wearing a raspberry beret. With its colorful storytelling and carefree energy, “Raspberry Beret” became a top 10 hit and showcased Prince’s ability to effortlessly experiment with different musical styles. Its lighthearted charm and vivid imagery make it an enduring fan favorite.
8. I Would Die 4 U (1984)
“I Would Die 4 U,” released in November 1984, is a poignant synth-pop gem that captures Prince’s spiritual and emotional depth. As part of the Purple Rain soundtrack, the song combines a pulsating rhythm with heartfelt lyrics about selflessness and unconditional love. Its minimalist production allows Prince’s message of devotion to shine through, creating a track that feels both universal and deeply personal. Reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, “I Would Die 4 U” is a testament to Prince’s ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level.
9. Sign o’ the Times (1987)
“Sign o’ the Times,” released in February 1987, stands as one of Prince’s most socially conscious and impactful works. Addressing topics like poverty, addiction, and the AIDS crisis, the song pairs stark, sobering lyrics with a minimalist production of haunting synths and drum beats. As the title track of his critically acclaimed double album, it revealed Prince’s willingness to confront societal issues head-on while showcasing his musical innovation. Though it didn’t dominate the charts, its cultural and artistic significance is undeniable, solidifying its place among Prince’s most revered songs.
10. Cream (1991)
In September 1991, Prince unveiled “Cream,” a sultry, confident track that exudes effortless cool. From its seductive groove to its cheeky lyrics, the song is pure charisma, driven by Prince’s swaggering vocal performance. As part of the Diamonds and Pearls album, “Cream” climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming his fifth #1 hit. It’s a testament to Prince’s ability to evolve with the times while maintaining his signature style. Playful, flirtatious, and endlessly catchy, “Cream” remains one of his most memorable hits.