Prince

Prince

ABOUT

Prince Rogers Nelson, known mononymously as Prince, was a groundbreaking American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer. Renowned for his eclectic work, flamboyant stage presence, and wide vocal range, Prince was an innovator in the music industry whose music blended a variety of genres, including funk, rock, R&B, and pop. His pioneering sound and style, along with his advocacy for the artistic freedom of musicians, have solidified his legacy as one of the most influential artists in contemporary music history.

BEFORE FAME

Prince was born on June 7, 1958, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age, reportedly teaching himself to play the piano by the time he was seven, the guitar at thirteen, and the drums at fourteen. His early exposure to music came largely from his parents, Mattie Della and John L. Nelson, both of whom were jazz musicians. His passion for music only grew as he matured, and by his teenage years, he was already forming bands and recording his own music.

TRIVIA

An aspect of Prince's career that often fascinates fans is his extensive unreleased music catalog. Known for his prolific output, it is estimated that he wrote and recorded hundreds of songs that have never seen the light of day. Additionally, Prince was known for his secretive and enigmatic personality, often adopting various pseudonyms and personas such as "The Artist Formerly Known as Prince" or simply "The Artist." Despite his high profile, he managed to keep much of his private life out of the public eye, adding to the mystique that surrounded him.

FAMILY LIFE

Prince’s personal life was as intriguing as his professional one. He was married twice, first to his backup dancer and singer, Mayte Garcia, from 1996 to 2000. The couple had a son who tragically passed away shortly after birth owing to a rare genetic disorder, Pfeiffer syndrome. His second marriage was to Manuela Testolini from 2001 until their divorce in 2006. Prince was also known for his strong spirituality, having converted to the Jehovah's Witness faith in 2001, which he attributed as a source of guidance and inspiration in his life.

ASSOCIATED WITH

Prince’s influence and collaborations spanned numerous artists and genres. He wrote hits for other notable musicians, such as "Nothing Compares 2 U" for Sinéad O'Connor and "Manic Monday" for The Bangles. He also collaborated with an array of artists including Sheila E., who played drums and collaborated with him on several albums, and Sheena Easton, with whom he performed the duet "U Got the Look." His impact extended beyond direct collaborations, as his innovative music and business practices inspired many artists to take creative and financial control of their work.