The Hits/The B-Sides cover

The Hits/The B-Sides

Prince · 1993

227 min · 56 tracks · contemporary R&B

A vibrant collection of funk, rock, and soul showcasing Prince's eclectic artistry and emotional depth across multiple genres.

Top tracks — play these first

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    When Doves Cry Start here — This track stands out for its groundbreaking production and emotional intensity, featuring no bass line yet creating an unforgettable groove that captures the essence of Prince's artistry.
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    Purple Rain — A cornerstone of Prince's catalog, this song showcases his ability to blend rock balladry with soulful vocals, culminating in a powerful guitar solo that defines his signature sound.
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    Kiss — With its minimalist funk beat and playful lyrics, this track exemplifies Prince’s knack for catchy melodies while pushing boundaries in sexual expression within mainstream music.
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    Nothing Compares 2 U (live) — This live rendition highlights Prince's raw vocal prowess and emotional delivery, bringing new life to a song that became synonymous with heartbreak and longing.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • danceable tracks for parties
  • nostalgic sing-alongs with friends
  • eclectic mix for varied moods
  • late-night groove sessions
  • energetic anthems for celebration

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer longer, cohesive albums
  • seeking immediate gratification

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Compiles key tracks showcasing Prince's eclectic style, solidifying his cultural impact.
Themes
Minneapolis sound evolution· sensual grooves· emotional guitar anthems
Career context
Released on September 13, 1993, The Hits/The B-Sides marked a significant moment in Prince's career as it compiled tracks from his prolific output during the 1980s and early 90s. This album came after his commercial peak with albums like Purple Rain and Sign “O” the Times, serving as both a retrospective and a celebration of his diverse musical styles and themes. At this point, Prince was navigating tensions with his record label while continuing to innovate musically.

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 When Doves Cry Start here 3:48
  • 2 Pop Life 3:42
  • 3 Soft and Wet 3:03
  • 4 I Feel for You 3:25
  • 5 Why You Wanna Treat Me So Bad? 3:48
  • 6 When You Were Mine 3:43
  • 7 Uptown 4:09
  • 8 Let’s Go Crazy 4:39
  • 9 1999 3:37
  • 10 I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man 3:40
  • 11 Nothing Compares 2 U (live) 4:58
  • 12 Adore 4:41
  • 13 Pink Cashmere 6:15
  • 14 Alphabet St. 5:39
  • 15 Sign “O” the Times 3:43
  • 16 Thieves in the Temple 3:20
  • 17 Diamonds and Pearls 4:20
  • 18 7 5:09

Disc 2

  • 1 Controversy 3:35
  • 2 Dirty Mind 3:49
  • 3 I Wanna Be Your Lover 2:58
  • 4 Head 4:43
  • 5 Do Me, Baby 3:57
  • 6 Delirious 2:39
  • 7 Little Red Corvette 4:56
  • 8 I Would Die 4 U 2:57
  • 9 Raspberry Beret 3:32
  • 10 If I Was Your Girlfriend 3:46
  • 11 Kiss 3:46
  • 12 Peach 3:48
  • 13 U Got the Look 3:47
  • 14 Sexy M. F. 5:26
  • 15 Gett Off 4:30
  • 16 Cream 4:13
  • 17 Pope 3:28
  • 18 Purple Rain 8:40

Disc 3

  • 1 Hello 3:24
  • 2 200 Balloons 5:06
  • 3 Escape 3:30
  • 4 Gotta Stop (Messin’ About) 2:55
  • 5 Horny Toad 2:12
  • 6 Feel U Up 3:44
  • 7 Girl 3:48
  • 8 I Love U in Me 4:13
  • 9 Erotic City 3:55
  • 10 Shockadelica 3:31
  • 11 Irresistible Bitch 4:12
  • 12 Scarlet Pussy 4:18
  • 13 La, La, La, He, He, Hee 3:22
  • 14 She’s Always in My Hair 3:27
  • 15 17 Days 3:55
  • 16 How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore 3:51
  • 17 Another Lonely Christmas 4:52
  • 18 God 4:03
  • 19 4 the Tears in Your Eyes 3:24
  • 20 Power Fantastic 4:45

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata