Prince was one of the most talented musicians of his time, and his discography is a testament to his creativity and versatility. While he is often associated with pop and rock music, there is an undiscovered funky side to his music that is worth exploring. In this article, we will take a deep dive into the funky side of Prince's discography and uncover some hidden gems that will make you appreciate his music even more.
Prince started his music career in the late 1970s and released his debut album, For You, in 1978. While this album showcased Prince's talent as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, it was not until his second album, Prince, that he started to experiment with funk and R&B influences. Songs like "I Wanna Be Your Lover" and "Sexy Dancer" showcased his ability to blend different genres of music and create a unique sound that was all his own.
In 1981, Prince released his fourth album, Controversy, which marked a significant shift in his music. This album was more experimental and edgier than his previous works, and it featured several funk-influenced tracks like "Controversy" and "Let's Work." These songs showcased Prince's ability to merge funk, rock, and pop music in a way that was both innovative and accessible.
Prince's breakthrough album, 1999, was released in 1982 and solidified his status as an icon of the 80s music scene. This album was a tour de force of funk, rock, and pop music, with songs like "Little Red Corvette," "Delirious," and "1999" becoming instant classics. It also featured Prince's signature use of synthesizers and drum machines, which became a hallmark of his sound.
One of Prince's most iconic albums, Purple Rain, was released in 1984 and cemented his status as a superstar. This album was a masterclass in funk, rock, and pop music, with songs like "Let's Go Crazy," "When Doves Cry," and "Purple Rain" becoming instant classics. It also featured Prince's incredible guitar skills, which he showcased on several tracks, including the epic 8-minute guitar solo on "Purple Rain."
In 1987, Prince released Sign o' the Times, which is widely regarded as one of his best albums. This album was a departure from his previous works and showcased his ability to incorporate social commentary into his music. It featured several funk-influenced tracks, including "U Got the Look" and "Housequake," which showcased his ability to merge different genres of music into a cohesive whole.
In the 90s, Prince continued to experiment with funk, rock, and pop music, releasing several albums that showcased his versatility as a musician. He also continued to incorporate social commentary into his music, with songs like "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World" and "Dolphin" tackling issues like racism and environmentalism.
The Gold Experience, released in 1995, is one of Prince's most innovative albums. It featured several funk-influenced tracks, including "P. Control" and "Endorphinmachine," which showcased his ability to push the boundaries of funk music. This album also marked the first time that Prince incorporated hip-hop into his music, with the track "Gold" featuring rapper Q-Tip.
Musicology, released in 2004, marked a return to form for Prince, who had been struggling to connect with a younger audience in the 2000s. This album showcased his ability to merge funk, rock, and pop music in a way that was both innovative and accessible. It also featured several socially conscious tracks, including "Cinnamon Girl" and "Dear Mr. Man," which tackled issues like war and political corruption.
Prince's discography is a testament to his creativity, versatility, and ability to push the boundaries of funk, rock, and pop music. While he is often associated with pop and rock music, his funky side is a hidden gem that is worth exploring. From his early albums like Prince and Controversy to his later works like The Gold Experience and Musicology, Prince's ability to blend different genres of music and create a unique sound is truly unparalleled. His music will continue to inspire generations of music lovers for years to come.