Did you know these hit songs were written by Prince?
The music legend wrote numerous hits for other iconic performers
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MUSIC Purple rain
Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the remarkable legacy of Prince. He was much more than a pop culture icon; he was a trailblazer, a multi-instrumentalist, a prolific songwriter, a renowned producer, and an actor. As the LA Times put it, he was “our first post-everything pop star,” becoming a figure who transcended the barriers of genre, race, gender, and commercial success.
Throughout his extensive career spanning four decades, Prince captivated audiences with his unforgettable stage presence, iconic fashion choices, and limitless talent. Whether it was guitar drums, bass, or keyboards, he mastered countless musical instruments effortlessly. Combined with his extraordinary vocal range, which spanned from falsetto to baritone, music truly became his playground. This allowed him to reshape and push the boundaries of various genres, including the celebrated Minneapolis sound that blended funk, rock, synth-pop, and new wave.
At the tender age of seven, Prince wrote his first song, and by the time he turned 18, he achieved platinum success, setting the stage for a remarkable musical journey. With over 39 studio albums and an impressive collection of accolades, Prince sold over 100 million records worldwide. It seemed as though his career would continue to flourish, but unfortunately, his life was tragically cut short, leaving the world mourning the loss of a true legend.
Prince's influence on culture can be seen not only in his distinctive and extravagant fashion choices, but also in his extensive discography and diverse body of work. Yet, one of the most striking aspects of his generosity was his willingness to share his musical gifts with others. He wrote numerous songs for fellow artists and even allowed his music to be covered by other performers, often using a pen name. These songs topped the charts and became unexpected hits, further cementing Prince's impact on the world of music.
Take a look at the gallery to discover the surprisingly successful songs that you may not have realized were penned by Prince. It serves as a testament to his immense talent and enduring presence in music history.
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