11 Underrated Prince Songs: A Must-Hear List

Hey there, music lovers and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’m diving into a topic that’s close to my heart – the genius of Prince.

We all know his iconic hits, but there’s a treasure trove of underrated gems in his discography that often fly under the radar. I’ve been spinning records for years, and every time I drop a lesser-known Prince track, the room lights up with a unique vibe.

So, I decided to curate a list of 11 underrated Prince songs that deserve more spotlight. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just dipping your toes into his vast ocean of music, these tracks will show you a different side of the Purple One.

Let’s groove into the world of Prince’s hidden masterpieces!

Here are the underrated Prince Songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Prince Songs

Underrated Prince Songss in a list format:

1. “Joy in Repetition” from ‘Graffiti Bridge’ (1990, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

“Joy in Repetition” is one of those Prince tracks that immediately captivates you with its storytelling. Released on the ‘Graffiti Bridge’ album in 1990 under the Paisley Park and Warner Bros. labels, this song is a deep cut that showcases Prince’s ability to weave a narrative with a hypnotic groove. The song tells the story of a man mesmerized by a woman singing in a club, with the phrase “Love me” repeated like a mantra. The guitar work is sublime, and Prince’s vocals are hauntingly beautiful. I chose this song because it’s a perfect example of how Prince could create a whole world within a song, and it’s a world worth revisiting.

2. “The Ballad of Dorothy Parker” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’ (1987, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

This track from the critically acclaimed ‘Sign o’ the Times’ album is a quirky, jazz-infused number that really stands out. Released in 1987 under Paisley Park and Warner Bros., “The Ballad of Dorothy Parker” showcases Prince’s experimental side. The song’s narrative, about a dreamlike encounter with a waitress, is as intriguing as its sound – a mix of electronic and acoustic elements. Prince’s playful and somewhat introspective lyrics combined with a laid-back, almost conversational vocal delivery make this track a unique piece in his catalog. I love this song for its storytelling and its ability to transport the listener to another place.

3. “Starfish and Coffee” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’ (1987, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

Another gem from ‘Sign o’ the Times’, “Starfish and Coffee” is a whimsical and uplifting tune. The song, released in 1987, is a delightful narrative about a schoolgirl named Cynthia Rose, known for her eccentric breakfast choices. What makes this song stand out is its simplicity and the joyous, almost childlike wonder in its lyrics and melody. It’s a departure from Prince’s more complex compositions, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter. I chose this song because it’s a feel-good track that never fails to bring a smile, and it’s a testament to Prince’s ability to create magic with music.

4. “Lady Cab Driver” from ‘1999’ (1982, Warner Bros.)

“Lady Cab Driver,” from the ‘1999’ album, is a funk-laden track that’s often overlooked. Released in 1982 under Warner Bros., this song is a journey through various emotions, from frustration to desire. The driving bassline, combined with Prince’s passionate vocals and a groovy guitar riff, creates a compelling narrative. The song’s extended outro, featuring a simulated conversation with a cab driver, is both provocative and introspective. I love this track for its raw energy and the way it encapsulates the diverse themes Prince could explore in a single song.

5. “Something in the Water (Does Not Compute)” from ‘1999’ (1982, Warner Bros.)

“Something in the Water (Does Not Compute)” is a standout track on the ‘1999’ album, known for its haunting synthesizer and emotional vocal performance. Released in 1982 by Warner Bros., this song delves into the complexities of a troubled relationship, with Prince’s vocals ranging from vulnerable to aggressive. The synth-driven melody creates a sense of tension and unease, perfectly complementing the lyrics. I chose this song because it’s a brilliant example of Prince’s ability to convey deep emotion and narrative through his unique soundscapes.

6. “Condition of the Heart” from ‘Around the World in a Day’ (1985, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

From the 1985 album ‘Around the World in a Day’, “Condition of the Heart” is a poignant ballad that showcases Prince’s softer, more introspective side. Released under Paisley Park and Warner Bros., this track is a beautifully crafted story of longing and heartache. The song starts with a solo piano intro, leading into Prince’s expressive vocals, which convey a deep sense of vulnerability. The orchestration builds up, adding layers to the emotional depth of the song. I included this track for its raw emotion and the way it highlights Prince’s skill as a storyteller through music.

7. “She’s Always in My Hair” (B-side of “Raspberry Beret” single, 1985, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

“She’s Always in My Hair” is an electrifying B-side to the “Raspberry Beret” single from 1985, released under Paisley Park and Warner Bros. This song is a hidden gem that combines rock and funk elements, showcasing Prince’s versatility. The guitar work is exceptional, and the lyrics are a tribute to the women who have been influential in his life. The song’s energy is infectious, making it a favorite among Prince enthusiasts. I chose this song for its raw power and the way it captures the essence of Prince’s musical genius.

8. “Mountains” from ‘Parade’ (1986, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

“Mountains,” from the 1986 album ‘Parade’, is an uplifting track that blends pop, funk, and psychedelia. Released under Paisley Park and Warner Bros., this song stands out for its vibrant instrumentation and positive message about love and resilience. The arrangement is rich and layered, with a chorus that’s irresistibly catchy. “Mountains” showcases Prince’s ability to create music that’s both thought-provoking and danceable. I love this track for its feel-good vibe and its testament to Prince’s talent for crafting songs that transcend genres.

9. “I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’ (1987, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

This track from ‘Sign o’ the Times’ is a brilliant blend of rock and pop. Released in 1987 under Paisley Park and Warner Bros., “I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man” features one of Prince’s most memorable guitar solos. The song’s narrative, about a man unwilling to be a rebound, is delivered with a mix of swagger and sensitivity. The upbeat tempo contrasts with the somewhat melancholic lyrics, creating a unique listening experience. I chose this song for its incredible guitar work and the way it showcases Prince’s skill in blending different musical styles.

10. “7” from ‘Love Symbol Album’ (1992, Paisley Park/Warner Bros.)

From the ‘Love Symbol Album’ in 1992, “7” is a mystical and symbolic song that combines elements of rock, pop, and Middle Eastern influences. Released under Paisley Park and Warner Bros., this track stands out for its lyrical depth and the intriguing story it tells about prophecy and transformation. The song’s arrangement is rich and multi-layered, creating an almost cinematic feel. I included “7” for its storytelling prowess and the way it highlights Prince’s ability to infuse his music with deep symbolism and eclectic influences.

11. “The Love We Make” from ‘Emancipation’

• Emotional Depth: Released after Prince’s split with Warner Bros., this track from ‘Emancipation’ is seen as a reflection of his feelings during this period. The song’s emotional intensity is a testament to his ability to channel personal experiences into his music.

Fun Facts: Underrated Prince Songs Songs

1. “Joy in Repetition” from ‘Graffiti Bridge’

• Live Favorite: Despite its relative obscurity on the album, “Joy in Repetition” became a fan favorite in live performances. Prince’s passionate live renditions often extended the song, showcasing his improvisational skills and the track’s hypnotic groove.

2. “The Ballad of Dorothy Parker” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’

• Recording Quirk: This song was recorded during a thunderstorm which caused a power surge, leading to a partially malfunctioning recording console. The unique, slightly muffled sound quality of the track is a result of this technical glitch, which Prince decided to keep.

3. “Starfish and Coffee” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’

• Inspired by a True Story: The whimsical lyrics of “Starfish and Coffee” were inspired by a real-life childhood classmate of Prince’s then-girlfriend, Susannah Melvoin. The song captures the innocence and imagination of childhood in a unique way.

4. “Lady Cab Driver” from ‘1999’

• Layered Instrumentation: Prince played all the instruments on this track, showcasing his multi-instrumental prowess. The song’s complex layers of sound are a testament to his ability to create a full-band feel as a solo artist.

5. “Something in the Water (Does Not Compute)” from ‘1999’

• Synthesizer Showcase: This song is notable for its extensive use of the Oberheim OB-X synthesizer, which Prince used to create its distinctive, haunting sound. It’s a prime example of his skill in using technology to enhance his music.

6. “Condition of the Heart” from ‘Around the World in a Day’

• Solo Performance: Like many of his songs, Prince performed all the vocals and instruments on “Condition of the Heart.” The track’s intimate feel is enhanced by this solo approach, giving it a deeply personal touch.

7. “She’s Always in My Hair” (B-side of “Raspberry Beret” single)

• B-side Gem: Often overshadowed by the A-side hit “Raspberry Beret,” this song has gained a cult following. Its B-side status belies its popularity among fans, who appreciate its raw energy and guitar work.

8. “Mountains” from ‘Parade’

• Collaborative Effort: “Mountains” is one of the few Prince tracks co-written with Wendy & Lisa, members of The Revolution. Their influence is evident in the song’s harmonious and melodic structure.

9. “I Could Never Take the Place of Your Man” from ‘Sign o’ the Times’

• Years in the Making: This song was originally recorded in 1982 but wasn’t released until 1987. The five-year gap between its recording and release shows Prince’s penchant for perfectionism and his vast archive of unreleased material.

10. “7” from ‘Love Symbol Album’

• Symbolic Lyrics: The song’s lyrics are filled with apocalyptic and biblical references, reflecting Prince’s interest in spirituality and prophecy. The number seven is often associated with completeness and perfection in various religious and cultural contexts.

And there you have it, fellow music enthusiasts! We’ve journeyed through some of Prince’s most underrated yet brilliant tracks. Each song is a hidden gem, shining with its unique brilliance in the vast universe of Prince’s music. Keep exploring, keep listening, and remember, there’s always more to discover in the world of music.

Thanks for reading.

TBone