Introduction
Did you know that one of the most heartbreaking ballads of the early nineteen nineties, a song that resonated with millions struggling with loss and loneliness, was actually penned by the same artist who brought us “Little Red Corvette” and “Kiss?” Prince, the enigmatic and fiercely independent musical genius, is rightly celebrated for his own electrifying performances and groundbreaking albums. His name conjures images of ruffled shirts, high heels, and a stage presence that redefined what it meant to be a rock star. But beneath the flamboyant exterior and the virtuoso guitar solos lay a songwriting talent of unparalleled depth and versatility. While his own hits cemented his place in music history, many of his compositions found even greater success when interpreted by other artists, showcasing the breadth of his songwriting prowess and the universality of his musical vision. This article explores some of the most memorable examples of songs penned by Prince that achieved fame through the voices and artistry of others, proving that his influence extends far beyond his own purple reign.
Nothing Compares 2 U: A Ballad of Profound Emotion
“Nothing Compares 2 U” is arguably the most well-known example of a Prince song achieving massive success in the hands of another artist. Written for his side project, The Family, in nineteen eighty-five, the song initially remained relatively obscure. The original Prince recording, while powerful, didn’t capture the raw emotional intensity that would later define Sinead O’Connor’s iconic version. Prince’s original version is beautiful in its own right, a somber ballad with a touch of gospel influence. It’s introspective and subtly yearning, hinting at the pain of separation.
Sinead O’Connor’s rendition, released in nineteen ninety, transformed the song into a global phenomenon. Her haunting vocals, stripped of any artifice, conveyed a profound sense of grief and vulnerability. The minimalist arrangement, combined with the song’s stark lyrics, created an atmosphere of intense emotional intimacy. The music video, featuring O’Connor’s shaved head and tear-streaked face, became a cultural touchstone, perfectly capturing the song’s themes of loss and longing. O’Connor’s version resonated deeply with a generation grappling with complex emotions, making it an anthem for the heartbroken and the isolated.
Her interpretation wasn’t simply a cover; it was a reinterpretation. She imbued the song with her own personal experiences and pain, transforming it into something deeply personal and universal. While Prince’s version is a beautiful lament, O’Connor’s version is a visceral expression of grief. Reportedly, Prince felt complex emotions regarding the massive success of O’Connor’s version. One anecdote mentions his displeasure at her unwillingness to discuss him in interviews, while others suggest he admired her interpretation while remaining protective of his intellectual property. Regardless, “Nothing Compares 2 U” stands as a testament to both Prince’s songwriting genius and Sinead O’Connor’s ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level.
Manic Monday: Power Pop Perfection
From the depths of heartbreak to the anxieties of the work week, Prince’s songwriting range knew no bounds. “Manic Monday,” a shimmering slice of power pop perfection, became a breakthrough hit for The Bangles in nineteen eighty-six. Credited to “Christopher,” a pseudonym often used by Prince for songs he gave to other artists, “Manic Monday” offered a lighter, more playful side of his songwriting. The song perfectly captured the feeling of dread that accompanies the start of a long work week, resonating with anyone who’s ever wished for the weekend to last just a little bit longer.
The Bangles, with their infectious harmonies and effortlessly cool image, were the perfect vehicle for the song. Their version is bright, energetic, and instantly memorable. Susanna Hoffs’ lead vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s blend of wistful melancholy and upbeat pop sensibility. The song’s success propelled The Bangles to international stardom, solidifying their place as one of the leading female bands of the nineteen eighties.
“Manic Monday” showcased Prince’s ability to craft a commercially viable pop song without sacrificing his artistic integrity. While his own music often pushed boundaries and challenged conventions, he clearly understood the formula for a catchy, radio-friendly hit. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Prince’s knack for writing hooks that stay with you long after the song is over. It’s said that Prince originally intended the song for Apollonia Six, another project he was involved with, but ultimately felt it was a better fit for The Bangles. This decision proved to be a stroke of genius, as “Manic Monday” became one of The Bangles’ signature songs.
I Feel For You: A Groundbreaking Blend of R&B and Hip-Hop
Prince’s influence extended beyond pop and rock, reaching into the realms of R&B and hip-hop. “I Feel For You,” originally appearing on his nineteen seventy-nine self-titled album, became a massive hit for Chaka Khan in nineteen eighty-four, thanks to a groundbreaking remix that incorporated elements of hip-hop. Prince’s original version is a smooth, soulful ballad, showcasing his signature falsetto vocals and intricate keyboard arrangements. It’s a classic Prince track, but it didn’t achieve the widespread recognition of some of his other early hits.
Chaka Khan’s version, however, was a revelation. Producer Arif Mardin reimagined the song as a high-energy dance track, incorporating elements of funk, R&B, and, most notably, hip-hop. The addition of a rap verse by Melle Mel, along with Stevie Wonder’s harmonica solo and the iconic vocal sample of Chaka Khan repeating the title, transformed the song into a cultural phenomenon. Khan’s powerful vocals soared over the infectious beat, creating a truly unforgettable listening experience.
“I Feel For You” was one of the first songs to successfully blend R&B and hip-hop, paving the way for future collaborations between artists from different genres. It was a commercial smash, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and crossing over to the pop charts. The song not only revitalized Chaka Khan’s career but also helped to introduce hip-hop to a wider audience. Reportedly, Prince was initially surprised by the success of Khan’s version, but he ultimately appreciated her innovative interpretation of his song.
Sugar Walls: Controversy and Chart Success
“Sugar Walls,” performed by Sheena Easton, offers a different lens into Prince’s songwriting gifts. While not as universally beloved as the other tracks mentioned, its impact is undeniable. Released in nineteen eighty-four, the song stirred controversy due to its suggestive lyrics. Penned by Prince, the song’s double entendres surrounding female anatomy led to both praise and criticism.
Despite the controversy, “Sugar Walls” became a hit for Easton, showcasing her vocal versatility and willingness to push boundaries. The song’s success further solidified Prince’s reputation as a provocative and innovative songwriter, unafraid to tackle taboo subjects. Easton, too, benefitted from the association, gaining a new level of notoriety and expanding her fanbase.
Why Did Prince Give Away Songs?
The question of why Prince, a fiercely independent artist, would give away so many of his songs to other artists is a complex one with several possible answers. One obvious motivation was financial. As a songwriter, Prince earned royalties every time one of his songs was performed or recorded, regardless of who was performing it. This provided a steady stream of income, allowing him to fund his own artistic endeavors.
Another possible reason was his desire to support and promote other artists, particularly women. Prince was known for mentoring and collaborating with female musicians, and giving them his songs was one way to help them achieve success. He saw potential in these artists and wanted to provide them with a platform to showcase their talents.
Artistic exploration may have also played a role. Prince was a restless creative spirit who was constantly experimenting with different sounds and styles. Giving his songs to other artists allowed him to see them interpreted in new and unexpected ways, pushing the boundaries of his own creativity. It allowed him to detach and see a song he created evolve in a new direction.
Of course, strategic career moves and contractual obligations likely played a part as well. Prince was a savvy businessman, and he may have seen giving away songs as a way to build relationships with other artists or fulfill contractual obligations. Finally, it’s also crucial to remember the sheer volume of material he created. He was famously prolific, writing and recording hundreds of songs that never saw the light of day. Giving some of these songs to other artists was a way to ensure that they were heard by a wider audience.
Prince’s Legacy as a Songwriter for Others
Prince’s impact on music history extends far beyond his own iconic performances. His songwriting contributions to other artists have left an indelible mark on popular culture, shaping the sound of the nineteen eighties and beyond. These songs are a testament to his talent, versatility, and generosity as a songwriter. He could write a heartfelt ballad for Sinead O’Connor, a pop hit for The Bangles, and an R&B and hip-hop fusion track for Chaka Khan. These different approaches highlights his dynamic talent.
The success of these songs has also brought greater awareness and appreciation to Prince’s work as a songwriter. Many people who may not have been familiar with his own music were introduced to his genius through the performances of other artists. It also invites speculation about the unreleased songs that may exist. What other hidden gems are waiting to be discovered? The possibilities are endless.
Conclusion
From heart-wrenching ballads to infectious pop anthems, the songs penned by Prince and popularized by other artists demonstrate the breadth and depth of his songwriting genius. He wasn’t just a performer; he was a master craftsman, capable of creating songs that resonated with audiences across genres and generations. These hits became iconic in their own right, solidifying Prince’s legacy as one of the most influential and versatile songwriters of all time. He didn’t just make music; he created magic that continues to reverberate through the music world, and will do so for decades to come. What would other artist do with the vast array of unreleased tracks he made? Only time will tell.
