Let's Work cover

Let's Work

Prince · 1982

10 min · 2 tracks · contemporary R&B

A pulsating blend of funk and dance-pop, driven by infectious grooves and Prince's signature vocal flair.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Let’s Work (dance remix) — This extended remix epitomizes the album's danceable spirit, layering intricate beats and synths that invite listeners to the floor while highlighting Prince's innovative production style.
  • →
    Gotta Stop (Messin’ About) — This track showcases a more playful side of Prince, with catchy hooks and a laid-back groove that contrasts sharply with the energetic lead single, enriching the album's overall texture.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

58 /100
Treeline
Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The single showcases Prince's ability to blend funk and dance-pop while maintaining a strong groove.

What we noticed

  • The title track features a steady four-on-the-floor beat, layered with synthesizers and rhythmic guitar riffs that drive the danceable groove.
  • Prince's vocal delivery on 'Let's Work' includes call-and-response elements, engaging listeners and encouraging participation.
  • The B-side, 'Gotta Stop (Messin’ About)', contrasts with a slower tempo and more introspective lyrics, providing a shift in mood.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This single continued Prince's rise after the success of '1999' and solidified his dance-pop appeal.
Themes
Minneapolis sound· dance floor grooves
Career context
When 'Let's Work' was released in January 1982, Prince was riding high on the success of his previous album, '1999'. This single marked a continued evolution in his sound, showcasing his ability to blend genres while further solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the Minneapolis sound movement.
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Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Let’s Work (dance remix) 8:02
  • 2 Gotta Stop (Messin’ About) 2:55

What to play next

1999
Listen next

1999

1982

Continues the energetic funk and dance-pop vibes with more layered production.
Controversy
Go back to

Controversy

1981

Sets the stage with a similar blend of funk and social themes that precede 'Let's Work'.
Full Prince discography Where to start with Prince Artists like Prince
contemporary R&B funk jazz

If this landed

Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.

What Time Is It?

What Time Is It?

The Time

Shares the same Minneapolis sound and infectious grooves, for dance floors.

C'est Chic

C'est Chic

Chic

Combines catchy melodies with danceable rhythms, embodying a vibrant funk-pop atmosphere.

Street Songs

Street Songs

Rick James

Delivers funk-infused grooves and a party vibe that aligns with the energetic spirit of 'Let's Work'.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata