What is the best Prince album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Sign "O" the Times" (1987). It's the most representative of what makes Prince worth hearing.

What are the best Prince albums?

The essential Prince albums include "For You" (1978), "Prince" (1979), "Dirty Mind" (1980), "Controversy" (1981) and "Do Me, Baby" (1982).

How many albums does Prince have?

Prince has 154 releases in their discography, including 63 albums and 4 EPs.

Photo: Yves Lorson · CC BY 2.0

Prince

Q: Who is Prince for?

If you're into contemporary R&B and funk, Prince is worth your time. A pulsating groove intertwines with intricate layers of instrumentation, creating a rich texture that invites movement and engagement.

A pulsating groove intertwines with intricate layers of instrumentation, creating a rich texture that invites movement and engagement.

contemporary R&B · funk · jazz · pop rock

United States

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Start here

The album

Sign "O" the Times (1987)

This album showcases Prince's diverse range, blending funk, rock, and pop in a cohesive experience that highlights his signature sound.

The song

“Kiss”

This track features an infectious groove and catchy hook, capturing Prince's style and energy effectively for new listeners.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Thunder" — from Diamonds and Pearls (1991)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"My Name Is Prince" — from Love Symbol (1992)

establishes the sonic palette early
3

"Wow" — from Plectrumelectrum (2014)

accessible entry with immediate hook
4

"In Love" — from For You (1978)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"When Eye Lay My Hands on U" — from The Chocolate Invasion (2004)

establishes the sonic palette early
6

"👁 No" — from Lovesexy (1988)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Prince

Prince matters because he redefined the boundaries of pop music, merging funk, rock, and R&B into a new, intoxicating sonic landscape.

His audacious persona and fearless exploration of sexuality and identity in his work transformed the cultural narrative around these themes, making space for future generations of artists to express their true selves without fear of judgment. Through electrifying performances and an unwavering commitment to his artistic vision, he challenged mainstream norms and left an indelible mark on both the music industry and popular culture. The innovation in Prince's process lies in his multi-instrumentalism and meticulous production style, which often involved layering sounds with unexpected textures and rhythms. He was not just a performer but a visionary architect of sound, utilizing technology and studio techniques to create immersive experiences that felt both intimate and grandiose. This hands-on approach allowed him to maintain a distinct voice while navigating various musical landscapes, continually pushing against conventional structures. Lyrically, Prince often navigated themes of love, desire, and self-exploration with a distinctive blend of sincerity and irony. His storytelling captures vivid emotional landscapes while inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences through impressionistic imagery rather than straightforward narratives. This duality creates a sense of intimacy that resonates deeply within his audience.

63 studio albums· 154 total releases· 4 decades· United States