Prince, the legendary and highly influential musician, left an indelible mark on the music industry through his remarkable talent and innovative style.
With an extraordinary musical journey that spanned decades, Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson, captivated audiences worldwide with his electrifying performances and unique musicality. This article delves into Prince’s essential albums, posthumous releases, and the evolution of his music.
Prince Albums in Chronological Order
| Studio Album | Release Date |
| For You | 1978 |
| Prince | 1979 |
| Dirty Mind | 1980 |
| Controversy | 1981 |
| 1999 | 1982 |
| Purple Rain | 1984 |
| Around the World in a Day | 1985 |
| Parade | 1986 |
| Sign o’ the Times | 1987 |
| Lovesexy | 1988 |
| Batman | 1989 |
| Graffiti Bridge | 1990 |
| Diamonds and Pearls | 1991 |
| Love Symbol Album | 1992 |
| Come | 1994 |
| The Black Album | 1994 |
| The Gold Experience | 1995 |
| Chaos and Disorder | 1996 |
| Emancipation | 1996 |
| Crystal Ball | 1998 |
| The Truth | 1998 |
| Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic | 1999 |
| The Vault: Old Friends 4 Sale | 1999 |
| The Rainbow Children | 2001 |
| One Nite Alone… | 2002 |
| Xpectation | 2003 |
| N.E.W.S | 2003 |
| Musicology | 2004 |
| The Chocolate Invasion | 2004 |
| The Slaughterhouse | 2004 |
| 3121 | 2006 |
| Planet Earth | 2007 |
| Lotusflow3r | 2009 |
| MPLSound | 2009 |
| 20Ten | 2010 |
| Plectrumelectrum | 2014 |
| Art Official Age | 2014 |
| Hit n Run Phase One | 2015 |
| Hit n Run Phase Two | 2015 |
| Piano and a Microphone 1983 | 2018 |
| Originals | 2019 |
| Welcome 2 America | 2021 |
Let’s take a chronological journey through Prince’s discography, exploring each album along with its release date and providing a brief description.
For You (1978)
Prince’s debut album, “For You,” introduced the world to his multi-instrumental talents and showcased a fusion of genres including R&B, funk, and rock. This groundbreaking release established Prince as a versatile artist with a polished sound.
Tracks
- For You
- In Love
- Soft and Wet
- Crazy You
- Just as Long as We’re Together
- Baby
- My Love Is Forever
- So Blue
- I’m Yours
Prince (1979)
The self-titled album “Prince” marked his second studio release, featuring the breakthrough single “I Wanna Be Your Lover.” With this album, Prince demonstrated his growth as an artist, delivering a more refined and captivating musical experience.
Tracks
- I Wanna Be Your Lover
- Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad?
- Sexy Dancer
- When We’re Dancing Close and Slow
- With You
- Bambi
- Still Waiting
- I Feel for You
- It’s Gonna Be Lonely
Dirty Mind (1980)
In 1980, Prince released the provocative and controversial album “Dirty Mind,” which blurred the boundaries of new wave, funk, and rock. Notable tracks like “When You Were Mine” and the title track showcased his daring approach to music and lyrics.
Tracks
- Dirty Mind
- When You Were Mine
- Do It All Night
- Gotta Broken Heart Again
- Uptown
- Head
- Sister
- Partyup
Controversy (1981)
Expanding on his provocative themes, Prince released “Controversy” in 1981. This album fearlessly explored social and political issues, featuring tracks like “Controversy” and “Sexuality,” which challenged societal norms.
Tracks
- Controversy
- Sexuality
- Do Me, Baby
- Private Joy
- Ronnie, Talk to Russia
- Let’s Work
- Annie Christian
- Jack U Off
1999 (1982)
A major breakthrough for Prince, the double album “1999” solidified his position as a musical icon. With hits like the iconic title track, “Little Red Corvette,” and “Delirious,” Prince seamlessly blended pop, rock, and funk, captivating a broad audience.
Tracks
- 1999
- Little Red Corvette
- Delirious
- Let’s Pretend We’re Married
- D.M.S.R.
- Automatic
- Something in the Water (Does Not Compute)
- Free
- Lady Cab Driver
- All the Critics Love U in New York
- International Lover
Purple Rain (1984)
“Purple Rain” stands as Prince’s most successful and acclaimed work. Serving as the soundtrack to the film of the same name, the album became a cultural phenomenon. Hits like “When Doves Cry” and the titular track “Purple Rain” solidified Prince’s legendary status in the music industry.
Tracks
- Let’s Go Crazy
- Take Me with U
- The Beautiful Ones
- Computer Blue
- Darling Nikki
- When Doves Cry
- I Would Die 4 U
- Baby I’m a Star
- Purple Rain
Around the World in a Day (1985)
Departing from the sound of “Purple Rain,” Prince released the psychedelic and experimental album “Around the World in a Day.” This artistic departure showcased his versatility with tracks like “Raspberry Beret” and “Pop Life,” captivating fans with its unique musical landscape.
Tracks
- Around the World in a Day
- Paisley Park
- Condition of the Heart
- Raspberry Beret
- Tamborine
- America
- Pop Life
- The Ladder
- Temptation
Parade (1986)
The album “Parade” served as the soundtrack to the film “Under the Cherry Moon.” Prince masterfully blended pop, funk, and jazz elements, crafting hits like the infectious single “Kiss” and further showcasing his musical prowess.
Tracks
- Christopher Tracy’s Parade
- New Position
- I Wonder U
- Under the Cherry Moon
- Girls & Boys
- Life Can Be So Nice
- Venus de Milo
- Mountains
- Do U Lie?
- Kiss
- Anotherloverholenyohead
- Sometimes It Snows in April
Sign o’ the Times (1987)
Considered one of Prince’s greatest works, “Sign o’ the Times” is a critically acclaimed double album that reflects his range of musical styles. With socially conscious lyrics and tracks like the title song and “U Got the Look,” Prince demonstrated his ability to captivate and inspire through music.
Tracks
- Sign o’ the Times
- Play in the Sunshine
- Housequake
- The Ballad of Dorothy Parker
- It
- Starfish and Coffee
- Slow Love
- Hot Thing
- Forever in My Life
Lovesexy (1988)
“Lovesexy” stands as a spiritual and experimental album that explores themes of love, spirituality, and positivity. With the single “Alphabet St.,” Prince continued to push artistic boundaries, creating a unique listening experience.
Tracks
- Eye No
- Alphabet St.
- Glam Slam
- Anna Stesia
- Dance On
- Lovesexy
- When 2 R in Love
- I Wish U Heaven
- Positivity
Batman (1989)
Prince contributed to the soundtrack of the film “Batman” with an album of the same name. Embracing a darker and more rock-oriented sound, hits like “Batdance” showcased Prince’s ability to adapt and thrive across various genres.
Tracks
- The Future
- Electric Chair
- The Arms of Orion
- Partyman
- Vicki Waiting
Trust - Lemon Crush
- Scandalous
- Batdance
Graffiti Bridge (1990)
Released as the soundtrack to the film “Graffiti Bridge,” this album featured a mix of new material and collaborations with other artists. With its diverse range of tracks, Prince showcased his versatility and experimentation.
Tracks
- Can’t Stop This Feeling I Got
- New Power Generation, Part 1
- Release It
- The Question of U
- Elephants & Flowers
- Round and Round
- We Can Funk
- Joy in Repetition
- Love Machine
- Tick, Tick, Bang
- Shake!
- Thieves in the Temple
- The Latest Fashion
- Melody Cool
- Still Would Stand All Time
- Graffiti Bridge
- New Power Generation, Part 2
Diamonds and Pearls (1991)
Prince’s album “Diamonds and Pearls” embraced a more accessible pop sound, featuring the title track, the upbeat “Cream,” and the soulful ballad “Insatiable.” This release marked another successful chapter in Prince’s career.
Tracks
- Thunder
- Daddy Pop
- Diamonds and Pearls
- Cream
- Strollin’
- Willing and Able
- Gett Off
- Walk Don’t Walk
- Jughead
- Money Don’t Matter 2 Night
- Push
- Insatiable
- Live 4 Love (Last Words from the Cockpit)
Love Symbol Album (1992)
Released under Prince’s unpronounceable “Love Symbol,” this eclectic album merged various genres and included the hit song “7.” With its fusion of styles, Prince continued to redefine musical boundaries and captivate listeners.
Tracks
- My Name Is Prince
- Sexy MF
- Love 2 the 9’s
- The Morning Papers
- The Max
- Segue
- Blue Light
- 👁 Wanna Melt with U
- Sweet Baby
- The Continental
- Damn U
- Arrogance
- The Flow
- “7”
- And God Created Woman
- 3 Chains o’ Gold
- Segue
- The Sacrifice of Victor
Come (1994)
The album “Come” served as a dark and introspective release, often associated with Prince’s desire for artistic freedom. Tracks like “Letitgo” and “Space” delved into themes of personal growth and emotional exploration.
Tracks
- Come
- Space
- Pheromone
- Loose!
- Papa
- Race
- Dark
- Solo
- Letitgo
- Orgasm
The Black Album (1994)
“The Black Album” comprises remastered audio tracks intended to attract a wider Black audience. However, it was swiftly withdrawn from release, adding an air of mystique and rarity to Prince’s discography.
Tracks
- Le Grind
- Cindy C.
- Dead on It
- When 2 R in Love
- Bob George
- Superfunkycalifragisexy
- 2 Nigs United 4 West Compton
- Rockhard in a Funky Place
The Gold Experience (1995)
Featuring the hit single “The Most Beautiful Girl in the World,” “The Gold Experience” explored themes of love, spirituality, and societal issues. This album showcased Prince’s ability to combine meaningful lyrics with infectious melodies.
Tracks
- P Control
- NPG Operator
- Endorphinmachine
- Shhh
- We March
- NPG Operator
- The Most Beautiful Girl in the World
- Dolphin
- NPG Operator
- Now
- NPG Operator
- 319
- NPG Operator
- Shy
- Billy Jack Bitch
- I Hate U
- NPG Operator
- Gold
Chaos and Disorder (1996)
Reflecting his dissatisfaction with his record label, Prince released the rock-oriented album “Chaos and Disorder.” Its raw and edgy sound captured Prince’s rebellious spirit and showcased his prowess as a guitarist.
Tracks
- Chaos and Disorder
- I Like It There
- Dinner with Delores
- The Same December
- Right the Wrong
- Zannalee
- I Rock, Therefore I Am
- Into the Light
- I Will
- Dig U Better Dead
- Had U
Emancipation (1996)
A triple album celebrating his independence from Warner Bros. Records, “Emancipation” demonstrated Prince’s creative freedom. With a diverse range of genres and his signature sound, Prince delivered an impressive display of his artistic capabilities.
Tracks
- Jam of the Year
- Right Back Here in My Arms
- Somebody’s Somebody
- Get Yo Groove On
- Courtin’ Time
- Betcha by Golly Wow!
- We Gets Up
- White Mansion
- Damned If 👁 Do
- 👁 Can’t Make U Love Me
- Mr. Happy
- In This Bed 👁 Scream
- Sex in the Summer
- One Kiss at a Time
- Soul Sanctuary
- Emale
- Curious Child
- Dreamin’ About U
- Joint 2 Joint
- The Holy River
- Let’s Have a Baby
- Saviour
- The Plan
- Friend, Lover, Sister, Mother/Wife
- Slave
- New World
- The Human Body
- Face Down
- La, La, La Means 👁 Love U
- Style
- Sleep Around
- Da, Da, Da
- My Computer
- One of Us
- The Love We Make
- Emancipation
Crystal Ball (1998)
“Crystal Ball” is a box set that compiles unreleased material from Prince’s vault. With tracks that span various genres, Prince’s versatility and experimentation shine through in this collection.
Tracks
- Crystal Ball
- Dream Factory
- Acknowledge Me
- Ripopgodazippa
- Love Sign
- Hide the Bone
- 2morrow
- So Dark
- Movie Star
- Tell Me How U Wanna B Done
- Interactive
- Da Bang
- Calhoun Square
- What’s My Name
- Crucial
- An Honest Man
- Sexual Suicide
- Cloreen Baconskin
- Good Love
- Strays of the World
- Days of Wild
- Last Heart
- Poom Poom
- She Gave Her Angels
- 18 & Over
- The Ride
- Get Loose
- P Control
- Make Your Mama Happy
- Goodbye
The Truth (1998)
“The Truth” is an acoustic album featuring stripped-down arrangements and introspective lyrics. Focusing on themes of love, spirituality, and personal growth, Prince delivered a heartfelt and soulful listening experience.
Tracks
- The Truth
- Don’t Play Me
- Circle of Amour
- 3rd 👁
- Dionne
- Man in a Uniform
- Animal Kingdom
- The Other Side of the Pillow
- Fascination
- One of Your Tears
- Comeback
- Welcome 2 the Dawn
Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999)
“Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic” marked a collaborative effort between Prince and various artists, including Lenny Kravitz, Gwen Stefani, and Sheryl Crow. This release blended pop, rock, and R&B elements, resulting in an energetic and captivating album.
Tracks
- Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic
- Undisputed
- The Greatest Romance Ever Sold
- Segue
- Hot Wit U
- Tangerine
- So Far, So Pleased
- The Sun, the Moon and Stars
- Everyday Is a Winding Road
- Segue
- Man’O’War
- Baby Knows
- 👁 Love U, but 👁 Don’t Trust U Anymore
- Silly Game
- Strange but True
- Wherever U Go, Whatever U Do
- Segue
- Prettyman
The Vault: Old Friends 4 Sale (1999)
“The Vault” refers to Prince’s personal storage of unreleased songs, demos, and albums. It’s a testament to his prolific nature and unwavering dedication to his craft. “Old Friends 4 Sale” is one such album that emerged from this mysterious trove, captivating fans with its enigmatic allure.
Tracks
- The Rest of My Life
- It’s About That Walk
- She Spoke 2 Me
- 5 Women
- When the Lights Go Down
- My Little Pill
- There Is Lonely
- Old Friends 4 Sale
- Sarah
- Extraordinary
The Rainbow Children
“The Rainbow Children” is a concept album that delves into themes of spirituality, love, and social issues. Combining jazz, funk, and rock elements, Prince crafted a unique sonic landscape that challenged musical conventions.
Tracks
- Rainbow Children
- Muse 2 the Pharaoh
- Digital Garden
- The Work, pt. 1
- Everywhere
- The Sensual Everafter
- Mellow
- 1+1+1 Is 3
- Deconstruction
- Wedding Feast
- She Loves Me 4 Me
- Family Name
- The Everlasting Now
- Last December
- Untitled
One Nite Alone… (2002)
A solo piano and vocal album, “One Nite Alone…” showcased Prince’s intimate and raw performances. Featuring original compositions and covers, this stripped-down release allowed listeners to experience Prince’s musicality on a deeper level.
Tracks
- One Nite Alone…
- U’re Gonna C Me
- Here on Earth
- A Case of U
- Have a Heart
- Objects in the Mirror
- Avalanche
- Pearls B4 the Swine
- Young and Beautiful
- Arboretum
Xpectation (2003)
“Xpectation” is an instrumental album primarily composed of jazz fusion tracks. With this release, Prince demonstrated his exceptional skills as a musician and producer, crafting intricate and captivating compositions.
Tracks
- Xhalation
- Xcogitate
- Xemplify
- Xpectation
- Xotica
- Xogenous
- Xpand
- Xosphere
- Xpedition
N.E.W.S (2003)
“N.E.W.S” is a jazz-influenced instrumental album where each track represents a different compass point (North, East, West, and South). This experimental release showcased Prince’s willingness to explore new sonic territories.
Tracks
- North
- East
- West
- South
Musicology (2004)
With “Musicology,” Prince returned to a more accessible sound, blending funk, rock, and R&B influences. The Grammy-winning title track and “Call My Name” exemplify Prince’s ability to create infectious and memorable hits.
Tracks
- Musicology
- Illusion, Coma, Pimp & Circumstance
- A Million Days
- Life ‘o’ the Party
- Call My Name
- Cinnamon Girl
- What Do U Want Me 2 Do?
- The Marrying Kind
- If Eye Was the Man in Ur Life
- On the Couch
- Dear Mr. Man
- Reflection
The Chocolate Invasion (2004)
Part of a planned series of albums titled “The Chocolate Invasion” and “The Slaughterhouse,” “The Chocolate Invasion” was released online. This album showcased Prince’s experimentation with various genres, adding another layer to his extensive body of work.
Tracks
- When 👁 Lay My Hands on U
- Judas Smile
- Supercute
- Underneath the Cream
- Sexmesexmenot
- Vavoom
- High
- The Dance
- Gamillah
- U Make My Sun Shine
The Slaughterhouse (2004)
Continuing the planned series, “The Slaughterhouse” explored edgier rock and funk sounds. With this release, Prince continued to push boundaries and captivate listeners with his innovative musical approach.
Tracks
- Silicon
- S&M Groove
- Y Should 👁 Do That When 👁 Can Do This?
- Golden Parachute
- Hypnoparadise
- Props ‘n’ Pounds
- Northside
- Peace
- 2045: Radical Man
- The Daisy Chain
3121 (2006)
“3121” blended pop, funk, and R&B elements, showcasing Prince’s ability to create infectious and groovy tracks. The album’s lead single, “Black Sweat,” exemplifies Prince’s talent for crafting irresistible melodies.
Tracks
- 3121
- Lolita
- Te Amo Corazón
- Black Sweat
- Incense and Candles
- Love
- Satisfied
- Fury
- The Word
- Beautiful, Loved and Blessed
- The Dance
- Get On the Boat
Planet Earth (2007)
“Planet Earth” features tracks like “Guitar,” “Future Baby Mama,” and the title track. Prince’s artistic vision shines through in this album, offering a captivating musical journey.
Tracks
- Planet Earth
- Guitar
- Somewhere Here on Earth
- The One U Wanna C
- Future Baby Mama
- Mr. Goodnight
- All the Midnights in the World
- Chelsea Rodgers
- Lion of Judah
- Resolution
Lotusflow3r (2009)
A triple album consisting of “Lotusflow3r,” “MPLSound,” and “Elixer,” this release showcased Prince’s fusion of rock, funk, and pop sounds. With each album offering a distinct sonic experience, Prince once again demonstrated his versatility and musical prowess.
Tracks
- From the Lotus…
- Boom
- Crimson and Clover
- 4ever
- Colonized Mind
- Feel Better, Feel Good, Feel Wonderful
- Love Like Jazz
- 77 Beverly Park
- Wall of Berlin
- “$”
- Dreamer
- …Back 2 the Lotus
MPLSound (2009)
MPLSound is the twenty-ninth studio album by the iconic American musician Prince. Released in 2009, this album showcases Prince’s versatility as an artist by combining various music genres. From funk and R&B to electronic and rock, MPLSound offers a refreshing and distinctive sonic experience. In this article, we delve into the creative process behind MPLSound, its notable tracks, and its impact on Prince’s discography.
Tracks
- (There’ll Never B) Another Like Me
- Chocolate Box (featuring Q-Tip)
- Dance 4 Me
- U’re Gonna C Me
- Here
- Valentina
- Better with Time
- Ol’ Skool Company
- No More Candy 4 U
20Ten (2010)
Released as a free covermount with several European publications, “20Ten” featured a mix of pop, rock, and funk tracks. Prince’s ability to create diverse and engaging music was on full display in this album.
Tracks
- Compassion
- Beginning Endlessly
- Future Soul Song
- Sticky Like Glue
- Act of God
- Lavaux
- Walk in Sand
- Sea of Everything
- Everybody Loves Me
- Laydown
Plectrumelectrum (2014)
“Plectrumelectrum” is a collaborative album with the all-female band 3rdEyeGirl. Combining rock, funk, and blues influences, this release highlights Prince’s ability to create electrifying and captivating music.
Tracks
- Wow
- Pretzelbodylogic
- Aintturninround
- Plectrumelectrum
- Whitecaps
- Fixurlifeup
- Boytrouble
- Stopthistrain
- Anotherlove
- Tictactoe
- Marz
- Funknroll
Art Official Age (2014)
“Art Official Age” is a solo album released on the same day as “Plectrumelectrum.” This release incorporates electronic and R&B elements, showcasing Prince’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries.
Tracks
- Art Official Cage
- Clouds
- Breakdown
- The Gold Standard
- U Know
- Breakfast Can Wait
- This Could Be Us
- What It Feels Like
- affirmation I & II
- Way Back Home
- Funknroll
- Time
- affirmation III
Hit n Run Phase One (2015)
An exclusive album initially released on the streaming service Tidal, “Hit n Run Phase One” features captivating tracks such as “Baltimore,” “Stare,” and “Big City.” Prince’s ability to captivate listeners remained strong in this release.
Tracks
- Million $ Show
- Shut This Down
- Ain’t About 2 Stop
- Like a Mack
- This Could B Us
- Fallinlove2nite
- X’s Face
- Hardrocklover
- Mr. Nelson
- 1000’s of X’s & O’s
- June
Hit n Run Phase Two (2015)
Continuing the journey of “Hit n Run Phase One,” the second phase of the album delivers a collection of powerful and eclectic songs. Prince’s musical genius shines through in tracks like “RocknRoll LoveAffair” and “Xtraloveable.”
Tracks
- Baltimore
- Rocknroll Loveaffair
- 2 Y. 2 D.
- Look at Me, Look at U
- Stare
- Xtraloveable
- Groovy Potential
- When She Comes
- Screwdriver
- Black Muse
- Revelation
- Big City
Piano and a Microphone 1983 (2018)
“Piano and a Microphone 1983” offers an intimate and raw glimpse into Prince’s artistry. Featuring recordings of his solo performances, this album allows listeners to experience the sheer brilliance and vulnerability of Prince’s talent.
Tracks
- 17 Days
- Purple Rain
- A Case of You
- Mary Don’t You Weep
- Strange Relationship
- International Lover
- Wednesday
- Cold Coffee & Cocaine
- Why the Butterflies
Originals (2019)
“Originals” is a compilation album that features Prince’s original recordings of songs he wrote for other artists. With this release, listeners gain a deeper understanding of Prince’s creative genius and his impact on the music industry.
Tracks
- Sex Shooter
- Jungle Love
- Manic Monday
- Noon Rendezvous
- Make-Up
- 100 MPH
- You’re My Love
- Holly Rock
- Baby, You’re a Trip
- The Glamorous Life
- Gigolos Get Lonely Too
- Love… Thy Will Be Done
- Dear Michaelangelo
- Wouldn’t You Love to Love Me?
- Nothing Compares 2 U
Welcome 2 America (2021)
“Welcome 2 America” is a posthumously released album that explores themes of racial and social injustice, technology’s influence on society, and personal introspection. Prince’s powerful lyrics and soulful sound resonate throughout this thought-provoking and timely release.
Tracks
- Welcome 2 America
- Running Game (Son of a Slave Master)
- Born 2 Die
- 1000 Light Years from Here
- Hot Summer
- Stand Up and B Strong
- Check the Record
- Same Page, Different Book
- When She Comes
- 1010 (Rin Tin Tin)
- Yes
- One Day We Will All B Free
Prince’s Musical Evolution
Prince’s discography reflects an incredible musical evolution, with his sound continuously evolving and pushing boundaries. From his early albums blending R&B, funk, and rock to his later experiments with jazz, pop, and electronic elements, Prince showcased his versatility and willingness to explore new territories.
Prince’s music was characterized by his exceptional songwriting skills, electrifying performances, and his ability to fuse different genres seamlessly. He fearlessly addressed controversial themes, challenged societal norms, and used his platform to advocate for social justice and equality.
Through his innovative approach to music production, Prince incorporated a wide range of instruments, infusing his tracks with intricate arrangements and captivating melodies. His mastery of the guitar was particularly notable, as he delivered electrifying solos and showcased his virtuosity during live performances. Here are some essential songs that everyone should know.
Prince’s influence on the music industry cannot be overstated. His unique style and fearless artistry continue to inspire countless musicians and shape the landscape of popular music. Prince’s music transcends genres and generations, leaving an enduring legacy that will forever be celebrated.