How to Get Into Prince

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

Getting into Prince can be daunting with his extensive catalog and diverse styles. This guide offers a clear starting point with 'Sign 'O' the Times', showcasing his unique blend of funk, rock, and pop. From there, you'll find paths to explore his essential albums and accessible works, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of his influential music.

Moderate entry
A few key albums to navigate

Start here

Sign "O" the Times

Sign "O" the Times

1987

Best starting point

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

Start with "Kiss" from The Hits/The B-Sides

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

Songs to start with

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

  1. 1

    "Le Grind" — from The Black Album (1994)

    establishes the sonic palette early

Listening paths

Pick a path through Prince's catalog.

Go deeper

Common questions

What does Prince sound like?

A pulsating groove intertwines with intricate layers of instrumentation, creating a rich texture that invites movement and engagement. Rooted in contemporary R&B and funk. Start with Sign "O" the Times.

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 "Sign "O" the Times" (1987), "For You" (1978), "Dirty Mind" (1980), "1999" (1982) and "Sign "O" the Times" (1987).

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.

How many albums does Prince have?

Prince has 64 releases in their discography, including 60 albums and 4 EPs.