Introduction
When introducing an artist as iconic and multifaceted as Prince to someone who has never heard him, the choice of songs becomes a mix of personal taste and cultural importance. This list aims to represent Prince's incredible legacy with a collection of his most iconic and influential tracks. Here are my top 10 picks for anyone interested in the genius of Prince:
Top 10 Prince Songs for New Listeners
01. When Doves Cry
This is arguably my personal no.1 on the list. 'When Doves Cry' is a perfect example of the musical elements that make Prince a legend, particularly during his glory years of the 1980s. The beginning features a messy yet captivating solo that sets the tone for what follows. The song's synthesis of rock, pop, and funk perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the golden age of synth pop.
02. Kiss
Similar to 'When Doves Cry,' 'Kiss' embodies the same genre-bending brilliance. While I may not have appreciated his high octave vocals initially, they've grown on me over time. The guitar licks in this track are something truly legendary. It even boasts a place in the soundtrack of the video game GTA: Vice City, demonstrating its lasting impact on popular culture. The funky guitar riffs are of such legendary status that they inspire eternal love among fans of 80s music.
03. Get off
While this song might be an acquired taste, I personally adore it. The screeches and synthesized sounds, combined with the low drop bass, create a unique and powerful experience. It's reminiscent of tracks produced by musician legends like Michael Jackson and Dr. Dre, and its use in the film P.S. I Love You further cements its place in pop culture.
04. Purple Rain
'Purple Rain' is one of the best-known tracks from Prince's discography. Although it's not the only song widely recognized, it remains a cultural landmark. When discussing Prince with others, 'Purple Rain' often comes to mind first, much like the track Animals by Martin Garrix, which is one of the most recognizable tracks in electronic dance music. It serves as a universal anthem that everyone can relate to.
05. Musicology
Towards the end of Prince's career, he created a significant body of work. 'Musicology' is one of his most recent works and a testament to his continuous evolution as a musician. It's a mellowed-down funk-soul number that can be appreciated by anyone. And it's refreshing to have a song from Prince that doesn't require a PG-13 rating for nudity, making it a more accessible choice for family gatherings.
06. Batdance
This is one of Prince's more FUN songs. The 0:37-1:00 snippet alone makes it clear why it's a standout track. The energy and drive in the music are invigorating, making it sound almost like it could have inspired some of the late 80's and early 90's Indian music directors. It's a track that captures the spirit of the era in a fun and engaging way.
07. Cream
Cream has a certain vibe that reminds me of George Michael's work. It's a track that exudes a raw and genuine feeling, making it a standout in Prince's vast discography. The melody and rhythm are incredibly captivating, and it's a must-listen for any fan of Prince's music.
08. Controversy
'Controversy' is a digitally-driven track that feels almost like it could have been made by Daft Punk in 2016. The chorus sounds less like controversy and more like something straight out of the future. It's a track that showcases Prince's ability to stay ahead of the times, making it a must-own for any fan.
09. You Got the Look
'You Got the Look' is a definite 80's anthem. The drums have a metallic sheen that could almost be used by a metal band. The track has traces of Roxette and Robert Palmer's 'Addicted to Love,' which adds a unique layer of complexity to the song. It's a true representation of Prince's ability to blend genres and create something fresh and exciting.
10. The Most Beautiful Girl in the World
You wouldn't expect to hear this track from Prince, but he must have been pressured to contribute to early 90's love ballads. Despite the unlikely genre, the bassline is incredibly captivating and adds a layer of charm to the track. Prince always found a way to blend unexpected elements into his work, and this is a shining example of that.
Conclusion
These ten songs provide a comprehensive overview of Prince's musical journey and highlight his influence on music. From the soaring synth-pop of 'When Doves Cry' to the driving fun of 'Batdance,' there's something for everyone in this list. By familiarizing yourself with these tracks, you'll be able to appreciate the full scope of Prince's genius and why he remains one of the most influential artists of all time.