Two years ago today, Prince died.
We all die. This inevitable fact gives our lives meaning and urgency, initiates despair and depression, inspires art, appreciation of beauty, and reverent contemplation. The looming threat of death can inspire greatness and can breed anger, fear, and violence. Whether we embrace our end or fight it, ignore the inevitable or stare it in the face, we can’t avoid death. It will be the conclusion for all of us.
The memories and artifacts we leave behind, our legacy, offer a feint at immortality. Few of us will leave as rich and lasting a legacy as Prince Rogers Nelson.
Up until his death at age 57, Prince wrote and recorded hundreds (if not thousands) of songs, released an average of one studio album per year over his 39-year career, and performed live – with astonishing energy – countless times around the world.
Prince inspired multiple generations of artists and fans and his influence will be felt for generations to come.
To mark this day, I’ll share some of the lesser known gems in his oeuvre. I hope you can take a few minutes to appreciate some great music and remember the incomparable Prince.
RIP
The closing track from the album Diamonds and Pearls, this song inspired my vanity plate. Enjoy this live footage of the rarely performed rocker – Live for Love (Live):
One of my very favorite songs. From the “Love Symbol” album – Damn You:
I have to include a track from Prince’s wild side, so check out this b-side remix, also from the Diamonds and Pearls era – Violet the Organ Grinder:
No better way to finish this post than with the previously unavailable original version of one of his most famous songs, released by the Prince Estate just this week – Nothing Compares 2 U:
Peace & B Wild!