The Best Prince Songs capture the essence of an artist who redefined music with his unique sound and creativity.
Prince’s career spanned genres from funk to rock, with each song showcasing his impressive range and groundbreaking style.
Known for his bold lyrics, powerful voice, and unforgettable stage presence, Prince crafted songs that left a lasting mark on fans and music history alike.
This collection of Best Prince Songs brings together his most influential and beloved hits, celebrating his legacy and innovation.
Dive into these unforgettable tracks that highlight the genius and versatility of a true music icon.
1. “When Doves Cry” – Perfect Song By Prince (1984)
About this song:
- Album: Purple Rain
- Released: 1984
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: Experimental pop, neo-psychedelia, soul, avant-pop, synth-pop, funk
- Key Lyric: “Maybe I’m just too demanding. Maybe I’m just like my father, too bold.”
“When Doves Cry” was released in 1984, instantly standing out for its unique sound with no bass line, an unconventional choice by Prince.
Featured on the groundbreaking Purple Rain soundtrack, it explores the complexities of relationships and inner conflict.
The song, entirely self-produced and performed by Prince, highlights his musical genius and fearlessness in breaking traditional pop norms.
Its haunting melody and introspective lyrics offer a glimpse into Prince’s personal struggles, adding a depth rarely seen in pop music at the time.
“When Doves Cry” remains a testament to Prince’s artistry, blending raw emotion with innovative production.
2. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” – Best Song By Prince (1979)
About this song:
- Album: Prince
- Released: 1979
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: Disco, funk, pop, dance-pop, soul, post-disco
- Key Lyric: “I wanna be your lover. I wanna be the only one that makes you come running.”
Released in 1979, “I Wanna Be Your Lover” marked Prince’s first major hit, showcasing his early talent in blending pop with funk.
The song, from his self-titled album Prince, helped establish him as a rising star with a unique sound and bold lyricism.
Its catchy rhythm and smooth disco vibe captivated audiences, setting the stage for his future exploration of love and sensuality in music.
Prince’s intricate instrumentation and falsetto vocals on this track highlight his multifaceted artistry and charisma.
“I Wanna Be Your Lover” continues to be celebrated for its infectious energy and Prince’s confident approach to pop-funk.
3. “Mr. Nelson” – Recommended Song By Prince (2015)
About this song:
- Album: HITnRUN Phase One
- Released: 2015
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: R&B/Soul
- Key Lyric: “We don’t need no clouds, we know. Oh, oh, oh, oh.”
In “Mr. Nelson,” Prince pays homage to his own journey, using his birth name in the title as a nod to his roots.
Released in 2015 on HITnRUN Phase One, it’s one of his later works, capturing the evolved, introspective artist he had become.
The song mixes soulful melodies with electronic elements, reflecting his ability to innovate within his established sound.
Its lyrics subtly highlight themes of self-identity and resilience, a recurring motif in his music career.
“Mr. Nelson” is both a tribute to his past and a reminder of Prince’s enduring legacy in the music world.
4. “Sexy MF” – Awesome Song By Prince (1992)
About this song:
- Album: Love Symbol
- Released: 1992
- Artist: Prince and the New Power Generation
- Genre: Funk, funk rap, R&B
- Key Lyric: “We’re all alone in a villa on the Rivier’. That’s in France on the south side, in case you care.”
“Sexy MF” captures Prince’s daring style, blending bold lyrics with funk rhythms that showcase his boundary-pushing approach.
Released in 1992 on the Love Symbol album, this track is full of attitude and confidence, embodying Prince’s trademark charisma.
Prince created this song alongside his band, the New Power Generation, crafting a distinctive funk-infused rap vibe.
The playful, seductive lyrics reveal his love for experimentation and flair, which consistently set him apart in the music industry.
“Sexy MF” remains a fan favorite for its unapologetic style and Prince’s dynamic energy that shines throughout the track.
5. “Controversy” – Remarkable Song By Prince (1981)
About this song:
- Album: Controversy
- Released: 1981
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: Funk rock, new wave
- Key Lyric: “Do I believe in God? Do I believe in me?”
“Controversy” is a bold, introspective track by Prince, addressing societal and personal themes that defined much of his career.
Released in 1981 as the title track of the Controversy album, the song explores questions of identity, faith, and fame.
Prince’s provocative lyrics and infectious beat challenged norms, sparking conversations about individuality and acceptance.
Its mix of funk and new wave sounds highlights his unique ability to blend genres seamlessly.
“Controversy” continues to be celebrated for its fearless approach and the introspective questions Prince raised through his music.
6. “The Beautiful Ones” – Stunning Song By Prince (1984)
About this song:
- Album: Purple Rain
- Released: 1984
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: Soul, new-age
- Key Lyric: “Paint a perfect picture. Bring to life.”
“The Beautiful Ones” presents an emotional depth that highlights Prince’s range as both a singer and composer.
Written for Purple Rain, this song is a passionate, soul-stirring ballad that captures longing and heartbreak.
Prince’s expressive vocals and powerful falsetto add a haunting quality, making it one of his most intimate pieces.
The song evolves from a gentle melody into a dramatic crescendo, showing his masterful control over intensity and mood.
“The Beautiful Ones” stands as a testament to Prince’s vulnerability and artistic exploration of love and desire.
7. “Guitar” – Excellent Song By Prince (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Planet Earth
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: Rock, funk rock, post-punk revival
- Key Lyric: “I love you, baby. But not like I love my guitar.”
“Guitar” is Prince’s ode to his love for music, using playful lyrics that hint at the joy he finds in his craft.
Part of the Planet Earth album, this song celebrates his rock influences with a catchy riff and energetic beat.
Prince’s guitar skills take center stage, blending rock and funk elements into a sound that is unmistakably his own.
The song was born from his deep connection to the guitar as his main creative outlet, evident in the track’s spirited tone.
“Guitar” is a lively showcase of his musical prowess, both as a guitarist and an innovator in rock.
8. “Letitgo” – Wonderful Song By Prince (1994)
About this song:
- Album: Come
- Released: 1994
- Artist: Prince
- Genre: R&B
- Key Lyric: “But now I’ve got to let it go (let it go). Lay back and let the vibe just flow.”
Released in 1994, “Letitgo” finds Prince reflecting on the need to move forward and leave the past behind.
The song, from his Come album, incorporates smooth R&B elements with laid-back rhythms that convey a sense of release.
Through his lyrics, Prince speaks to the liberation that comes with letting go of burdens, both personal and artistic.
His cool, relaxed delivery and layered instrumentation give the song a soothing quality, highlighting his skill in crafting atmospheric R&B.
“Letitgo” is a standout track for its theme of freedom, showing Prince’s ability to blend introspection with soulful melodies.
9. “Raspberry Beret” – Ideal Song By Prince (1985)
About this song:
- Album: Around the World in a Day
- Released: 1985
- Artist: Prince and the Revolution
- Genre: Neo-psychedelia, psychedelic pop
- Key Lyric: “She wore a raspberry beret. The kind you find in a second-hand store.”
“Raspberry Beret” tells a nostalgic story of young love with vivid, colorful imagery that has become iconic.
Released in 1985 on the Around the World in a Day album, it showcases Prince’s dive into psychedelic pop with The Revolution.
The song’s storytelling lyrics and upbeat melody reflect a playful side of Prince, capturing his flair for creating catchy yet meaningful tunes.
His use of imaginative details and whimsical soundscapes brings a sense of warmth and innocence to the track.
“Raspberry Beret” remains beloved for its joyful, carefree vibe and its place as a signature Prince anthem.
10. “Kiss” – Amazing Song By Prince (1986)
About this song:
- Album: Parade
- Released: 1986
- Artist: Prince and the Revolution
- Genre: Funk, pop
- Key Lyric: “You don’t have to be rich to be my girl. You don’t have to be cool to rule my world.”
“Kiss” captures Prince’s minimalist approach to funk, with a stripped-down sound that emphasizes rhythm and groove.
Originally part of the Parade album, it features a funky guitar riff and falsetto vocals that became a hallmark of his style.
Prince’s lyrics promote a message of self-assurance and individuality, a recurring theme in his music.
The song’s infectious beat and simple, yet bold, arrangement highlight his genius in creating memorable hooks with minimal instrumentation.
“Kiss” has endured as a fan favorite for its danceable energy and its confident, empowering vibe that resonates with listeners.
Conclusion
As you listen through these Best Prince Songs, let the music remind you of the genius and creativity that defined Prince’s legacy.
His songs capture everything from raw emotion to unmatched energy, showing his impact on music and culture.
These tracks not only highlight Prince’s talent but also reflect his fearless approach to artistry and self-expression.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to his work, these Best Prince Songs offer a timeless journey through his unique sound.
Celebrate Prince’s legacy by adding these songs to your playlist and experiencing the magic he brought to music.