(ThyBlackMan.com) Few artists have had the seismic impact on music and culture that Prince did. The Purple One wasn’t just a musician; he was a genre-defying force, a master of reinvention, and a revolutionary in the music industry. His ability to blend rock, funk, pop, R&B, and electronic sounds remains unparalleled, making his catalog timeless. Even in 2025, his music remains essential listening, influencing new generations of artists and fans alike. Here are 10 Prince songs that remain must-listens today.
1. Purple Rain (1984)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
Few songs in music history carry the emotional weight of Purple Rain. This nearly nine-minute ballad, featuring one of the greatest guitar solos ever recorded, captures the essence of Prince’s artistry—raw, emotional, and transcendent. Even four decades after its release, the song remains a staple at concerts, sporting events, and moments of reflection.
Lyrically, Purple Rain is about redemption and letting go, themes that resonate deeply in today’s world of constant change and uncertainty. The song’s grandiosity and heartfelt performance make it timeless, proving that no one could deliver vulnerability with as much grandeur as Prince did. Additionally, its live performances, especially the unforgettable Super Bowl XLI halftime show, further solidified its legendary status.
Prince’s ability to make each live rendition of Purple Rain feel unique is another testament to its greatness. From the 1985 American Music Awards to his 2007 Super Bowl performance in the pouring rain, the song continues to create legendary moments. Fans still revisit these performances, proving its staying power in the cultural lexicon.
Its influence stretches beyond music, inspiring films, commercials, and even political speeches that evoke its themes of resilience and hope. Prince’s legacy as a performer is tied to Purple Rain, ensuring that its impact will last for generations.
2. When Doves Cry (1984)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
With When Doves Cry, Prince broke every rule of pop music. There’s no bassline, yet the song doesn’t need one—it thrives on its haunting synthesizers, piercing guitar, and gut-wrenching lyrics about fractured relationships. The production remains ahead of its time, proving that Prince was not just a musician but a sound architect.
Even in 2025, no song quite captures the pain of heartbreak and the complexities of love like When Doves Cry. Its raw energy and stripped-down brilliance serve as a masterclass in production, still inspiring artists looking to challenge traditional musical structures. The song also showcases Prince’s unique ability to blend poetic lyricism with experimental production, making it an eternal classic.
Beyond its technical innovation, When Doves Cry resonates emotionally with listeners, making it a top choice for anyone dealing with heartbreak or self-reflection. The song’s ability to capture both turmoil and beauty makes it timeless.
Prince’s unmatched vocal performance on this track—switching between controlled restraint and anguished wails—adds to its gripping quality. Its influence is still evident in modern R&B and electronic music, as artists continue to sample and reinterpret its sound.
3. Kiss (1986)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
Less is more has never been more evident than in Kiss. Prince stripped down the instrumentation to a funky, minimal groove, allowing his falsetto and suggestive lyrics to do all the talking. The song’s infectious rhythm makes it one of the best dance tracks ever recorded.
Why is it still essential today? Because the world still needs funk. Modern pop and R&B have borrowed heavily from Prince’s blueprint, but Kiss remains untouchable in its coolness, demonstrating that charisma and groove outweigh overproduction. The song’s influence can be seen in contemporary artists such as Bruno Mars and The Weeknd, who emulate Prince’s effortless style.
Prince’s playfulness in Kiss—from his unique vocal delivery to the cheeky lyrics—reminds listeners that great music doesn’t always need to be complex. Sometimes, a simple, groovy beat and charismatic vocals are all that’s needed to create a timeless hit.
Its commercial success and Grammy win solidified Prince’s dominance in the 80s music landscape. In 2025, Kiss remains an essential party anthem, proving that funk never goes out of style.
4. Let’s Go Crazy (1984)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life.” From the moment Prince delivers this iconic introduction, Let’s Go Crazy is an electrifying ride. A fusion of gospel, rock, and funk, the song embodies Prince’s limitless energy and showmanship.
With modern music often lacking spontaneity, Let’s Go Crazy reminds us of the power of pure, unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll. Its message about living fearlessly and embracing life remains as relevant today as it was in 1984. The song continues to be a call to arms for those looking for motivation, making it a staple in workout playlists and self-empowerment anthems.
The song’s legendary status is cemented by its role as an opening track in Purple Rain, setting the stage for the film and album. In concert, Let’s Go Crazy was often an explosive opener, further proving its ability to energize any audience.
Adding to its legacy, Let’s Go Crazy continues to be used in film soundtracks, advertisements, and sports events, showing that its high-octane energy never fades.
5. Little Red Corvette (1983)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
Little Red Corvette is a sultry blend of new wave, rock, and pop that turned Prince into a mainstream star. The metaphor of a one-night stand as a fast car was both sensual and poetic, capturing his ability to create deeply layered storytelling within a pop song.
This track still matters in 2025 because of its seamless fusion of different musical styles. The guitar work, electronic beats, and smooth vocals showcase Prince’s versatility, making it an excellent entry point for new listeners. In today’s digital world, where songs are overproduced and formulaic, Little Red Corvette remains a perfect example of pop music done right.
Moreover, its narrative structure is engaging, telling a story rather than just delivering a hook. That kind of songwriting craft is becoming rare, making this song even more essential listening today.
6. Raspberry Beret (1985)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
Raspberry Beret is a whimsical, colorful tale about young love and adventure. With its psychedelic influences and airy instrumentation, it showcases Prince’s ability to craft dreamy, evocative worlds within his music. The song’s storytelling paints vivid images in the listener’s mind, something rare in today’s music landscape.
In 2025, Raspberry Beret remains an uplifting, feel-good song that transports listeners to a world of nostalgic bliss. It stands as a reminder that music can be both artistic and fun. Prince’s ability to fuse pop, rock, and funk into one seamless experience makes it one of his most celebrated and enduring songs. The unique arrangement, featuring string orchestration and bright percussion, continues to feel fresh even decades later.
Beyond its sound, Raspberry Beret is a song about youthful excitement and breaking free from routine. It carries a sense of optimism that remains relevant in a world where people crave escapism through music. The track has inspired modern indie and alternative artists, proving that its vibrant, carefree energy is still in demand.
7. Sign O’ The Times (1987)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
This song remains one of the most socially relevant tracks Prince ever recorded. Sign O’ The Times is a stark commentary on the state of the world, touching on war, drug epidemics, and societal collapse. Listening in 2025, it’s chilling how much of the song’s themes still apply.
Prince’s minimalistic approach to production on this track makes the message even more powerful. The song’s stripped-down drum machine beat and haunting synthesizers allow the lyrics to take center stage, a bold choice that sets it apart from other 80s anthems. Its raw, journalistic storytelling reflects the turbulence of the era, yet it remains eerily fitting for today’s socio-political climate.
With its emphasis on truth and consciousness, Sign O’ The Times stands as a powerful piece of protest music. It encourages critical thought, making it essential listening in an age where activism and social awareness remain at the forefront of public discourse.
8. I Would Die 4 U (1984)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
This track blends gospel-like devotion with synth-pop brilliance, making it an energetic and deeply moving experience. Prince’s passionate performance and the pulsating beat create a sense of urgency and spiritual transcendence that resonates across generations.
In 2025, I Would Die 4 U continues to inspire modern pop and dance tracks, showcasing how Prince’s blend of the sacred and the sensual was ahead of its time. The song serves as both a love anthem and a statement of divine commitment, drawing from religious overtones while maintaining a universal appeal.
Its electrifying energy and hypnotic groove make it a staple on dance floors and fitness playlists, proving its lasting impact. Prince’s exploration of devotion—whether to a lover, a cause, or a higher power—remains timeless, ensuring I Would Die 4 U is still relevant today.
9. Darling Nikki (1984)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
One of Prince’s most controversial tracks, Darling Nikki remains a fascinating piece of history. Its impact on music censorship and raw storytelling make it an essential listen. The song’s explicit nature led to the formation of parental advisory labels, proving just how much of a cultural disruptor Prince was.
Beyond the controversy, Darling Nikki is a masterclass in musical tension and storytelling. Its dark, moody instrumentation and suggestive lyrics create an intense listening experience that is unlike anything else in Prince’s catalog. The song’s unfiltered sexuality and raw emotion still feel daring in today’s music landscape.
For modern listeners, Darling Nikki serves as a reminder of Prince’s fearless approach to artistry. It challenges societal norms and refuses to conform, making it an anthem for self-expression and rebellion. In an era where artists continue to push boundaries, Darling Nikki remains a benchmark for authenticity and boldness in music.
10. Cream (1991)
Why It’s a Must-Listen in 2025
A confident, swagger-filled track, Cream showcases Prince’s ability to create a song that oozes style. It’s a celebration of self-love and ambition, making it a perfect anthem for today’s world. The song’s sultry groove and smooth delivery make it one of Prince’s most infectious hits.
In 2025, Cream still feels as fresh as ever, thanks to its timeless themes of confidence and success. Its bluesy guitar licks and funky bassline highlight Prince’s unparalleled musicianship, while the lyrics serve as a reminder to embrace one’s greatness. The song continues to be used in film soundtracks, commercials, and motivational playlists, proving its universal appeal.
More than just a hit single, Cream is a testament to Prince’s ability to make music that feels luxurious and empowering. It remains a go-to song for anyone looking to channel their inner superstar, ensuring its place as an essential listen in any era.
Prince’s music isn’t just timeless—it’s essential. Whether through his bold experimentation, unparalleled songwriting, or electrifying performances, his impact remains alive and well. These ten songs are just a starting point, but they represent the magic, genius, and depth of an artist who truly had no equal. Even in 2025, Prince’s music remains more than just a throwback—it’s a soundtrack for the present and future, continuing to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
From heart-wrenching ballads to electrifying rock anthems, Prince’s catalog is an ever-evolving treasure trove of musical excellence. His ability to blend diverse genres and push creative boundaries ensures that his legacy will never fade. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his music for the first time, these songs are essential listening, proving that Prince’s artistry will forever remain unmatched.
