Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, was an iconic American singer, songwriter, musician, and record producer. Known for his eclectic work, flamboyant stage presence, and wide vocal range, Prince was a musical innovator whose influence spanned multiple genres, including funk, rock, R&B, and pop.
Prince Career Highlights
1978: Released his debut album "For You," showcasing his multi-instrumental abilities and distinctive sound.
1979: Achieved his first major hit with the album "Prince," which included the singles "I Wanna Be Your Lover" and "Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?"
1980: Released the critically acclaimed album "Dirty Mind," noted for its controversial lyrics and blending of genres.
1982: Released "1999," which included the hit singles "1999" and "Little Red Corvette," establishing him as a major force in pop music.
1984: Achieved worldwide fame with the release of "Purple Rain" and its accompanying film. The album included hits like "When Doves Cry," "Let's Go Crazy," and the title track "Purple Rain."
1986: Released the album "Parade," which featured the hit "Kiss" and served as the soundtrack to his second film, "Under the Cherry Moon."
1987: Released "Sign o' the Times," widely regarded as one of his greatest works, featuring hits like "If I Was Your Girlfriend" and "U Got the Look."
1991: Formed the New Power Generation and released the album "Diamonds and Pearls," featuring hits like "Cream" and "Gett Off."
1993: Changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol (often referred to as "The Artist Formerly Known as Prince") as a protest against his record label.
2004: Released the critically acclaimed album "Musicology," marking a major comeback and winning two Grammy Awards.
2016: Passed away on April 21 at his Paisley Park home and recording studio, leaving behind an unparalleled musical legacy.
Prince Band - Members and Collaborations
The Revolution: Prince's backing band during the early 1980s, notable members included Wendy Melvoin (guitar), Lisa Coleman (keyboards), and Dr. Fink (keyboards).
The New Power Generation: Formed in the 1990s, the band included musicians like Michael Bland (drums), Sonny T. (bass), and Tommy Barbarella (keyboards).
Collaborations: Worked with numerous artists, including Sheila E., Vanity 6, Apollonia 6, The Time, and Mavis Staples.
Prince Grammy Awards
1984: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for "Purple Rain."
2004: Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for "Call My Name."
2004: Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for "Musicology."
3 Most Famous Prince Songs
- "Purple Rain"
- "When Doves Cry"
- "Kiss"
Prince Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
Known for his disputes with his record label, Warner Bros., over artistic control and ownership of his master recordings, leading to his name change to the Love Symbol.
Renowned for his prolific output, reportedly recording thousands of unreleased songs stored in his vault at Paisley Park.
Prince was deeply private and enigmatic, rarely giving interviews and maintaining a mysterious public persona.
His sudden death at the age of 57 was ruled an accidental overdose of fentanyl, a powerful opioid, sparking widespread mourning and tributes from fans and fellow artists worldwide.
Prince was known for his groundbreaking music videos and live performances, often challenging conventional norms with his androgynous style and provocative stage antics.
Eric Clapton, when asked by a journalist what it felt like to be the best guitarist in the World replied…
I don’t know, you’d better ask Prince
Prince ratings
Songs: Rasberry Beret, Little Red Corvette, Purple Rain
Gear: Cloud Guitar