Prince

• Stage Name: Prince

• Birth Name: Prince Rogers Nelson

• Place of Birth: Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.

• Date of Birth: June 7, 1958

• Died: April 21, 2016 (57 years)

• Years Lived: 1958 - 2016

• Genres: Funk, Jazz, Pop, R&B, Rock, Soul

Early Life and Background

Birth and Family

Prince Rogers Nelson was born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. His father, John L. Nelson, was a jazz pianist and songwriter, and his mother, Mattie Della Shaw, was a jazz singer. Prince had one full sister, Tyka Nelson, and several half-siblings from his parents’ previous relationships.

Childhood

Prince showed an early interest in music, influenced by his parents’ musical background. He started playing the piano at a young age and later learned to play the guitar and drums. His parents’ separation when he was ten years old deeply affected him and fueled his passion for music.

Education

Prince attended Minneapolis’s Bryant Junior High and Central High School. He was largely self-taught in music, spending countless hours practicing various instruments. He formed his first band, Grand Central (later renamed Champagne), during high school, showcasing his musical talent and ambition.

Musical Beginnings

First Encounters with Music

Prince’s early performances were in local Minneapolis clubs and parties with his band Grand Central. He played various instruments, showing his versatility and prodigious talent. His first instrument was the piano, followed by the guitar and drums.

Early Bands or Groups

Prince’s first band was Grand Central, which he formed with his cousin Charles Smith and friend André Anderson (later known as André Cymone). The band played funk, rock, and R&B covers, and they gained a local following. Prince’s talent quickly stood out, leading to early recording opportunities.

Career Breakthrough

Discovery

Prince was discovered by local producer Chris Moon, who helped him record his first demo. Moon introduced Prince to Owen Husney, who became his manager and secured him a recording contract with Warner Bros. Records when he was just 19 years old.

Debut Release

Prince’s debut album, For You, was released in 1978. Although it did not achieve significant commercial success, it showcased his multi-instrumental abilities and unique sound. His second album, Prince (1979), featured the hit single “I Wanna Be Your Lover,” which became a major success and established him as a rising star.

Significant Performances

Prince’s early significant performances included his first major tour opening for Rick James in 1980. His dynamic stage presence and flamboyant style quickly garnered attention, setting the stage for his future as a live performer.

Rise to Fame

Major Albums and Hits

Prince’s rise to fame was marked by a series of successful albums and hit singles. Dirty Mind (1980), Controversy (1981), and 1999 (1982) were critical and commercial successes. His 1984 album Purple Rain, accompanied by the film of the same name, catapulted him to superstardom, featuring hits like “When Doves Cry” and “Let’s Go Crazy.”

Awards and Recognition

Throughout his career, Prince received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, an Academy Award for Best Original Song Score for Purple Rain, and a Golden Globe. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004 and received numerous other accolades for his contributions to music and culture.

Collaborations

Prince collaborated with many notable artists and producers, including Sheila E., The Time, Vanity 6, and Sheena Easton. He also wrote songs for other artists, such as “Manic Monday” for The Bangles and “Nothing Compares 2 U” for Sinéad O’Connor. His ability to work across genres and with diverse artists showcased his versatility and influence.

Personal Life

Relationships

Prince had several high-profile relationships, including with Susannah Melvoin, Vanity, Sheila E., Kim Basinger, and Apollonia Kotero. He was married twice, first to his backup dancer Mayte Garcia in 1996, with whom he had a son who tragically died shortly after birth. His second marriage was to Manuela Testolini from 2001 to 2006.

Challenges

Prince faced personal struggles, including conflicts with his record label, Warner Bros., over creative control and ownership of his music. This led to his famous battle to gain control of his master recordings and his decision to change his name to an unpronounceable symbol as a form of protest.

Philanthropy

Prince was known for his charitable work, often done quietly and anonymously. He supported various causes, including education, environmental issues, and social justice. He made significant contributions to schools, organizations, and individuals in need, using his wealth and influence to make a positive impact.

Musical Style and Influence

Genre and Style

Prince’s music spanned multiple genres, including funk, rock, R&B, pop, and soul. He was known for his eclectic style, blending elements from different musical traditions to create a unique and innovative sound. His ability to seamlessly transition between genres made him a versatile and groundbreaking artist.

Influences

Prince was influenced by a wide range of artists and genres, including James Brown, Jimi Hendrix, Sly and the Family Stone, Stevie Wonder, and The Beatles. His music reflected these influences while incorporating his distinct creative vision and style.

Impact on Music

Prince’s impact on music is immense. He revolutionized the music industry with his innovative sound, dynamic performances, and boundary-pushing creativity. His influence extends to countless artists across various genres, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans worldwide.

Later Career and Legacy

Continued Success

Prince continued to release music and tour extensively throughout his career. Albums like Sign o’ the Times (1987), Diamonds and Pearls (1991), and Musicology (2004) received critical acclaim and commercial success. He remained a prolific artist, constantly evolving his sound and pushing musical boundaries.

Retirement or Passing

Prince passed away on April 21, 2016, at the age of 57, due to an accidental overdose of fentanyl. His death was a significant loss to the music world, and fans around the globe mourned the passing of one of the most influential and innovative artists of all time.

Posthumous Releases and Tributes

Following his death, several posthumous releases and tributes celebrated Prince’s legacy. Albums like Piano & A Microphone 1983 (2018) and Originals (2019) offered new insights into his creative process. Numerous tribute concerts and events have honored his contributions to music, ensuring that his legacy endures.

Discography

Albums:

1. For You (1978) – Warner Bros.
2. Prince (1979) – Warner Bros.
3. Dirty Mind (1980) – Warner Bros.
4. Controversy (1981) – Warner Bros.
5. 1999 (1982) – Warner Bros.
6. Purple Rain (1984) – Warner Bros.
7. Around the World in a Day (1985) – Paisley Park
8. Parade (1986) – Paisley Park
9. Sign o’ the Times (1987) – Paisley Park
10. Lovesexy (1988) – Paisley Park
11. Batman (1989) – Warner Bros.
12. Graffiti Bridge (1990) – Warner Bros.
13. Diamonds and Pearls (1991) – Paisley Park
14. Love Symbol Album (1992) – Paisley Park
15. Come (1994) – Warner Bros.
16. The Gold Experience (1995) – Warner Bros.
17. Chaos and Disorder (1996) – Warner Bros.
18. Emancipation (1996) – NPG
19. The Rainbow Children (2001) – NPG
20. Musicology (2004) – NPG/Columbia
21. 3121 (2006) – NPG/Universal
22. Planet Earth (2007) – NPG/Columbia
23. Art Official Age (2014) – NPG/Warner Bros.
24. Hit n Run Phase One (2015) – NPG
25. Hit n Run Phase Two (2015) – NPG

Singles:

1. “I Wanna Be Your Lover” (1979) – Billboard Hot 100: #11
2. “1999” (1982) – Billboard Hot 100: #12
3. “Little Red Corvette” (1983) – Billboard Hot 100: #6
4. “When Doves Cry” (1984) – Billboard Hot 100: #1
5. “Let’s Go Crazy” (1984) – Billboard Hot 100: #1
6. “Purple Rain” (1984) – Billboard Hot 100: #2
7. “Kiss” (1986) – Billboard Hot 100: #1
8. “Sign o’ the Times” (1987) – Billboard Hot 100: #3
9. “Batdance” (1989) – Billboard Hot 100: #1
10. “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World” (1994) – Billboard Hot 100: #3

Collaborations:

1. “Nothing Compares 2 U” – Written for The Family and later popularized by Sinéad O’Connor.
2. “Manic Monday” – Written for The Bangles.
3. “Love Song” – Duet with Madonna.
4. “U Got the Look” – Featuring Sheena Easton.
5. Watch the Throne – Collaboration with Kanye West.

Conclusion

Summary of Impact

Prince’s impact on music and culture is immeasurable. He was a pioneer in blending genres, a masterful musician, and a captivating performer. His innovative approach to music production and performance set new standards in the industry.

Legacy

Prince is remembered as one of the greatest musicians of all time. His influence continues to inspire artists across genres, and his contributions to music, fashion, and culture are celebrated worldwide. Memorials and tributes, including the annual Prince Celebration at Paisley Park, ensure that his legacy lives on.