Reviews (page 9 of 14)
I mean it’s prince…
When this album popped up the day after 1999, I thought it was a cruel joke. 1999 was so irrelevant today that i couldn't wait for it to be over. In the spirit of the game, though, I popped on Purple Rain and heck yea. The songs are succinct, more inspired, and the whole thing just rips. Crazy what 2 years can do for an artist. This record is very much so one to listen to (several times) before you die. 1999 has come and gone, though, and we don't need it again.
Definitely better than Sign 'O' The Times and 1999, both of which I gave a 3. But there's something in Prince's style that always stops his music just short of being truly legendary. Maybe it's the lack of distinctive melodic hooks (in most tracks), where an album like Thriller excels in exactly that way. Even Let's Go Crazy, a song defined by its fast, rhythmic synths and drum machine – which is surely the perfect setup to an incredibly catchy hit – ends up just being a hit. Not catchy. At least, not in the sense that it'll be stuck in my head for the rest of the evening. Prince creates music that kind of goes in one ear and out the other (no doubt magnified by the overdone 80s production style), and for that I can hardly justify a 5-star review. But man, I completely understand why this guy was (and is!) so popular. He exudes allure, sexuality, mystery. Not just in his lyrics (which are suspect enough) but in his vocal delivery, his pained and lustful guitar playing, the contrasts between high and low energy. In these ways, where countless other artists miss the mark, Prince really delivers. No other famous artist has quite as high an innuendo-to-runtime density. The album art is hilarious to me, because it's so ugly it wraps back around to being kind of great. Purple and orange is a terrible colour duo. And those floral margins are completely unnecessary. I love it. Other highlights are the unexpectedly emotional ballad The Beautiful Ones, the otherworldly Darling Nikki, and the monumental title track. Dang, I wish I could give this album a higher rating. 4/5 Key tracks: Let's Go Crazy, The Beautiful Ones, Purple Rain
No soy muy fan de Prince pero este álbum está muy bien. Hay momentos a medias del álbum que me noto un poco cansado de oírlo, pero terminar con Purple Rain es perfecto para dejar un gran sabor de boca. Canción destacada: Purple Rain
Funny to get this album the day after I was conflicted about listening to Michael Jackson "Off the Wall." It was nice to be able to enjoy Prince's genius (which, let's face it, blows Michael Jackson out of the water) unencumbered by the baggage of the whole sexual assault of children. This album feels equally very much of its time and way ahead of its time in equal measure.
Another chance for Prince to achieve his greatest goal - convincing me that he really is all that. And do you know what? He's done well here. It feels redundant to point out that the guitar playing on here is absolutely [mind-blown emoji] throughout, but it can't pass unremarked. Overall the songs feel deeper than on 1999, and the big hits are beyond great. Despite that, there is a bit too much filler to get it into absolute classic territory. Needless to say, the 8 minute closing title track is the highlight; partly because it's dead good, and partly because it takes you straight back to a power ballads night, on your (increasingly sticky) knees, arms in the air as you bellow out the 45th chorus. Lovely stuff.
Purple rain is the only stand on song on here for me 😭
Started a 3, ended a low 4. The hits from the album are strong, the rest was okay. I don't think this is the best album ever, though. 4/5
The transition from I Would Die 4 U into Baby I'm A Star is just *chefs kiss*
18/02/25 Obviously Prince is a classic, and this was a good album.
I like Prince and Purple Rain is a masterpiece. It's a bit over the top and I think you need to be in the right mindset to really get into it. I was not digging Prince yesterday. Perhaps a different day and it's a 5.
A great album with some of his best work
Really liked this album
Prince sews together an epic here and puts his full range of creativity on display. Many hits with "Doves Cry" top track but the lesser played ones like "Computer Blue" are where you really get into the depths of his digital talents. Hard to see Prince as a baddass on a bike with the cover but the man/woman/alien? sure has left a mark on the music world. Need to watch the film again...3.58.
Purple Rain is an iconic album no doubt. It deserves the praise as it contains a handful of fun hits and wraps with one of the all time ballads with the title track. While it's difficult to divorce the album from the film, if you look at it as just an album it deserves to be on every list. Say what you will about Prince's personal life or ridiculous antics but the man knew how to write a tune and orchestrate a movement. One of the best showmen ever and Purple Rain is considered his peak by many. His Superbowl halftime show is one of those historical transcendent performances mainly due seeing Purple Rain during a rainstorm. 3.67 stars
So. Much. 80s. Here! I'm not really a Prince fan, and this may in fact be the first time I've heard this album beyond the four now-classic singles. That said, it's almost exactly what I expected it to sound like, and I enjoyed seeing the video for "Let's go crazy" and its concert shots; it highlight what an impressive performer he was as well as an accomplished musician. I'm also struck by how different and much more interesting Sinead O'Conner's cover is of "I would die 4 u". (Also hilarious to read that the song "Purple rain" was originally conceived as a country song collaboration with Stevie Nicks, but she freaked out when she got the music to write lyrics to.) I've never really understood why Michael Jackson had so much of a bigger fan base than Prince, given Prince's added depth of musical abilities, but I'm not sure Prince ever tried to cultivate his celebrity status the way Michael Jackson did. I do wonder if Prince tried to compete with Jackson, though, given that he produced and scored a feature-length film for "Purple Rain", which certainly beats out "Thriller" lengthwise if nothing else. And full credit to Prince that this album rarely sounds like a soundtrack, with a few exceptions like the oddball "Computer blue" track. Even though I'm not a big fan of his music or style, it's hard not to respect the magnitude of this album in his career.
Not my favorite Prince album though "When Doves Cry" is terrific and is the reason I'm giving this a 4.
Surprisingly enough I really like prince. Very funny lyrics as well
Really nice album with great guitar as expected. Flows really well.
Lets Go Crazy, Take me with you, When doves cry and Purple Rain are excellent songs that have aged pretty well - especially for 80s music (in my broad opinion, the 80s didnt age as well as 60s/70s sound ideas) I draw a lot of parallels between what PR is and what 1999 was (2 years apart - Purple Rain has the Revolution backing it). Everything ive read makes it seem like The Revolution reinvented Princes sound, but I disagree. Example: Lets Go Crazy and 1999 are both pretty much crowd pleasing singles with the same vibe I honestly like 1999 more as an album. With that said, Purple Rain (the song) is truly Princes masterpiece 3.5 stars and rounding up because i felt bad I didnt give 1999 4 stars
Started out slow. Let’s go crazy doesn’t grab me. But The Beautiful Ones rocked. I don’t often love screaming vocals but this song joined Oh Darling in my scream hall of fameDarling Nikki was weird and awesome. I think I get Prince now
I enjoyed this about the same as 1999. Some really fun songs - Let’s Go Crazy and Baby I’m a Star are my favorites. Not really a bad song on this album, but just don’t click completely with Prince. I didn’t know Prince and Darling Nikki was the original instigator for the Parental Advisory warning. I had such an obsession and fascination with any album that had that little sticker. I remember really wanting the first Sugar Ray album (because Fly was all over the radio in third grade) but it had a song that repeated “Cash, I need some fucking cash”, so while I was able to borrow the album from my baby sitter at the time and hear this piece of art, I was not able to lobby my parents to let me own it myself.
A great album that I don’t really resonate with. It absolutely feels like a moment in time and whenever i listen to Prince i think about my mom and how much she enjoyed it when it first came out. Ultimately not for me but I can see the greatness in it
Okay
Rock, Soul, 1984 -> 4
the epitome of horniness
Warm and a bit wobbly - lovely tone. Guitar solos? Drum solos?
At the top of his game.
One of the best to ever do it.
Purple rain es un temazo sideral
Not all of the album is my preference, but Prince does some really unique and creative things that are undoubtedly impressive.
This album is a ton of fun from start to finish. Groovy tunes, extremely technical guitar solos, and cool synth hooks. Not every track is a banger, but almost all of them are. I am so glad I got to hear some Prince.
Prince is not my favorite, but no respect the craft put into this album
1984. Purple Rain / When Doves Cry / I Would Die 4 U
Prince’s best?
Forgot how funky Prince was in the early days. And how good a guitar soloist he was. Definite 4/5 for me. :)
I ended up listening to the Deluxe Expanded Edition because it was the only one available on Youtube.... it had 35 songs and currently I'm on track #14. Even though I haven't finished it, I can tell the album is really good and I can tell why people love Prince so much. Great album!
Really solid. Not too insanely 80s with the effects which I appreciate
I've heard the big hits off this album countless times; however, this is my first time hearing the rest of the album and man, Prince was such a great song writer and lyricist. 3 Years an Audioslave movie watch party soon?
I also only knew the hits, which are superb, but had never heard the rest. Honestly, the other songs on this album are a bit underwhelming. The masturbating line in darling Nikki is rough. Still gonna give it a 4
The highs are about as good as it gets. The lows are not bad by any means, but there are a couple songs that I could live without. I’ve been really waffling between a 4 and 5. Might be harsh, but just doesn’t quite get there for me. 9/10
Classic. Also rather enjoyed the ones I didn't hear before like "Baby I'm a star" and "take me with you"
Otimo album Purple rain é um calssico e certamente um platina dobrado do gueto.
Baby I'm a Star was a surprise banger
First listen to this fully beyond the the title track and Doves. Surprised by how much I liked it. Was just a bit young for the Prince sensation
Often rated as a top 10 album, it doesn't deliver on that promise for me. It's great...some absolutely great songs (loved Computer Blue and the singles are, well singles), but something just didn't quite click for me. It seems so theatrical...probably the whole movie thing but whatever.
A fairly mellow Prince album - gotta love Darling Nikki and When Doves Cry.
I know “let’s go crazy” and I love it. I’ve never listed to this album before. Only the singles.
Dips a little toward end of side one, back to greatness on side 2
i mean it’s prince it’s weird it’s fun it’s dynamic
Very nice album! And, ahhh, of course, Purple Rain song is just iconic!
Pre-listening thoughts: maybe I’m just like my mother…😨 she’s never satisfied…💔 why do we scream at each other…😢 this is what is sounds like… 🤫when the doves cry 🦆 Post/during listening thoughts: this is incredibly 80s but this is like lowkey what defined the pop sound of the 80s. Great vocals, great guitar playing, some horny ass lyrics but whatever it’s Prince. 8.5/10 DID I NEED TO HEAR THIS BEFORE I DIE: if you’re looking for some solid 80s pop this is a great place to start Fav tracks: really enjoyed almost all of this. So close to 5 stars but a few tracks sank it a little. When Doves Cry is an all time fav Least fav tracks: The Beautiful Ones, didn’t dislike Darling Nikki musically but lyrically…
A fantastic pop album
Killer Album. Two stand outs in When Doves Cry and Let’s Go Crazy. Consistently good.
a classic for sure, and a good one at that, but i dont really have an affinity with the pop of this era so i guess it just doesnt hit as hard for me. i can see how this could be a 5 for many many people out there, just not quite for me. (the fact that i'm having to defend a 4 for this shows the regard this album is held to)
I want to like this more. I _WANT_ to give it a 5, really. But I always felt the title track was a bit long (but that's a quibble, it's still frigging amazing), and "Darling Nikki" is... ok? I remember the blowback from it a little when I was a teen. But ultimately, the song itself has to have a good groove and beat, and I never thought so. And "The Beautiful Ones"... would have been better if he toned his vocals down a little, for me. But the other songs, geez. They are all so. damn. GOOD. Not even the big ones, "Take Me With U", "Computer Blue," and then the whole second SIDE of the album is just... awesome stuff. It's on the cusp of being a 5-star album for me, but those two weak songs drag it down to maybe a 4.4. The rest of it is so strong, what a great snapshot of the time. Top tracks: "Let's Go Crazy," "When Doves Cry," "I Would Die 4 U," "Purple Rain"
purple rain makes it a solid 4 star album, that song alone is a perfect 5 stars.
神，无需多言
Excellent album, with a range of styles. A bit too much screaming, but otherwise quite enjoyable.
I’m an old guy; way older than this album (the album turned 40 this year). Prince himself was a bit too strange for me. So, I had to sneak into the garage with a pair of headphones and pretend I was listening to Bach. The album was that good - and still is…..
This is very futuristic, yet very retro album. Good combination of synth and guitar. Several songs on this albu. sound like there is a few songs in one song, becauase of changing atmosphere in the song. The best two songs of the album are "Purple rain" and "When doves cry". General rating of the album 8/10.
Great. Perfect purple pop from the prodigious Prince.
This is so over the top and so familiar. Bookended by absolute bangers. It's Purple F-ing Rain
i really enjoyed a lot of it but not entirely my thing, definitely deserving of being on here tho
Fav: Purple Rain Least Fav: Darling Nikki About as good as that Purple Rain cocktail I had a while ago
Yet another album where I knew the hits, but had never listened to the whole thing. Not exactly my thing, but still pretty good, a coherent piece of work.
Favorite Track: Let's Go Crazy
Prince brings the sex appeal that's for sure. With a sexy voice/time and even sexier lyrics. Catchy album for sure. And Purple Rain was a fantastic closing song. I enjoyed this album
Prince is a phenomenal musician. The album creates a unique and interesting atmosphere where Prince creates an entire little universe. Im a big mark for 80s synthesizers. Took me a couple listens to really understand.
Great album, loved the vibes
How can you just leave me standing? Alone in a world that's so cold? (So cold) Maybe I'm just too demanding Maybe I'm just like my father, too bold Maybe you're just like my mother She's never satisfied (She's never satisfied) Why do we scream at each other This is what it sounds like When doves cry
A pure classic
I like Prince more in theory than in practice. His more pop-accessible songs are fantastic and this album leans that way.
Would be 5 stars if Erotic City was not excluded.
Prince was something else, and Purple Rain is what cemented him as an icon. No two songs are the same, as Prince bounced around genres and tones and themes. "Let's Go Crazy" is such, such a fun way to start off the album, and I love its high energy. A kickass instrumental is tucked inside "Computer Blue," a hidden gem if there ever was one. "Darling Nikki" is daring for its lyrics alone; it's a great song but it's remembered more due to Tipper Gore. A shame considering how hard Prince goes in that song. "When Doves Cry" is so groundbreaking because the bassline is absent, something not done before. I've always loved the way "I Would Die 4 U" (stylized in typical Prince fashion) seamlessly turns into "Baby I'm a Star." The title track ends the album and is a soaring ballad that I never want to end. Anyway, for all my talk, probably if this album was done by anyone other than Prince, I would give this a 5. But Purple Rain isn't Prince's best work, and I love other albums over this one. Purple Rain is good but not great. But I won't lie--I was thrilled when this album popped up. 4.5, to be fair.
Not my favorite Prince album, but a couple of my favorite individual Prince songs for sure, and so many of his greatest hits! This album is chock full of experimentation which creates incredibly unique songs and one hell of a cohesively intriguing album. Prince is yet another artist who earns his multiple placements on this project time and time again.
When Doves Cry = 6 stars
so the first time that i ever hear something from this album is when a regional music award payed tribute to prince and all the artists that died in 2016 at the awarding ceremony in 2017, with my favourite artists covering "purple rain" and a bunch of songs, and the guitarist that i always admired soloed on the cover. the awesomeness of the cover makes me look foward to the album that may sounds more awesome. it did sounds awesome, but the first three tracks don't live up to my exception. they are just normal synth pop 4/5
Classic Prince
Less purple than expected. Less rain then expected. And why are there doves on the elevator?
80's lacy rock, purple soul, frilly funk, androgynous pop, high heeled jazz, you name it. Let's Go Crazy is one of my favorite all time songs. The Beautiful Ones starts out awfully but he redeems it at the 3:28 mark. The rest of the album has some great hits and not so good misses.
Purple Rain - Prince, 89/100. (Official Rating: 8.9/10) Posted on, “Album of the Year," "Rate Your Music" and “ MJ’s Album Reviews.” Official Ranking of the Year: Genre: Rock, Funk, RnB, Artist: Prince Date: 11/14/24-11/15/24 "Prince really demonstrates the colors of his music in this album, propelling the listeners to a wide burst of his emotions, and state. It perfectly encapsulates his personality and wide emotions for 80's music."
Very nice.
It's not my all-around favorite Prince material, but it's still Prince. It's Let's Go Crazy and When Doves Cry. And Purple fucking Rain.
Total classic. Tiny purple man bringing the jams.
I get why this a classic, but I can’t not see teal headbands and leg warmers when I hear this kind of music.
There were a lot of surprises here. Great guitar solos overlayed on soul and funk. I liked this. It’s not weird that Prince is Prince - very unique
This is a stone cold classic and a helpful reminder to get more into Prince ~ !
Not my favorite prince album, but still quite good. Love the opening lyrics.
The production on this thing is insane, I really do like Prince, and this album. The consistency of production quality really stands out for me here. I've never actually listened to this album from start to finish, and it was certainly an enjoyable listen. Is this album perfect? No. I think the quality of writing in some parts of the album are really lacking. Darling Nikki really just creeps me out more than anything, and he screams like a fucking girl half way through it for some reason. Yoko Ono core type shit. Still, this album is a banger. The kind of album I'd want on cassette and drive around to at night in my 80's shitbox. Really tossed between a 4 and a 5 here, but the writing quality on a few songs could be better, so alas, a 4.
RuPaul wants to be this guy so bad 7/10 Fav tracks - The Beautiful ones, Darling Nikki, I would Die 4 U Least fav - none really
The man the world thought was definitely gay, turned out to be just ahead of the curve with his soft boi moustache look that white guys would adopt from 2020 onwards. Great time with this album, really embodies that 80s synth sound that sticks out from that decade. Also so many big hits on this album, I mean purple rain and when doves cry like man what a combo. Shout out to his Super Bowl performance. 4/5.
A bit lovey dovey for my tastes, but the raw music and funky rhythms make it far more interesting than just an album of love songs.
Another genius album. Prince rules - nuff said
Pretty decent. Fundamental for guitar ballads and pop rock. Good vocal tone.
Muy disfrutable a pesar de no gustarme ese tipo de sonido
Definitely enjoyed the second half of the album more, will definitely need more listens, great production, Purple Rain is a phenomenal song
While I greatly admire his talent, Prince's music never really captured my fancy. If he were singing the title track most people would be getting into it, swaying and holding up their lighters but I'd be standing there going, "WTF is purple rain?". Still, this is a good one and it's even better when viewed in context with the movie. It's not especially my jam but I can't deny that there's some great bangers on this album and it's probably Prince's best.
So overplayed, but regardless it’s a gem.
Let’s Go Crazy, I Would Die 4 U and Take Me With U are great songs. When Doves Cry is an absolute classic 4/5
This delulu little man sure knew how to write a great guitar riff.
Not frequent go to for me but solid.
Easily Princes best album. Beautiful production great songs
Klasse
Gran irrupción en el panorama musical. Excesivo pero genial.
Liked this much better than the other Prince we listened to so far. Purple Rain is a perfectly epic album closer, and the initial run of songs kicks the album off with high energy.
I don't get Prince. I hear how much of a musical genius he is, but when I listen to his music, I just don't hear it. Some great tracks, some whatever tracks. It's a good album, but not "genius musician" good.
Some good stuff. I don't like the screeching in some songs. Definitely can see his talent. I know it's pop music, but it doesn't feel like it for the most part. 3.5* rounding up to 4.
Credit to Prince for doing the big "movie and a soundtrack album" move and getting the soundtrack bit to be so coherent and enjoyable by itself.
Purple Rain is such a crazy good number. The rest is very experimental (in a good 80's way)
Glad I gave this another full listen. Pretty fantastic record, particularly when Prince pushes his vocal cords to the extreme. The Beautiful Ones is my favorite, but there are several songs that I’m fond of.
I liked the movie so there's an element of my rating that is not directly associated with just the music. I will listen to and/or watch either anytime.
It's Prince. Hard to go wrong.
Better than I expected, but not as good as the hype.
Is there anybody like Prince?
DIT. DIT is waar ik op hoopte bij Prince! Veel meer funk, veel meer rock dan het eerste album van hem wat ik hoorde. Dat was bij tijden een beetje zeikerig, terwijl dit album funkt als een gek en vooral de 2e helft echt ijzersterk is. Eerste helft vond ik zelf wat zwakjes waardoor ik bang was dat het een 2e Prince album was waar ik niet zoveel aan vond. Terwijl Prince altijd een naam was die toch een beetje tot de verbeelding sprak. Gelukkig was de 2e helft zo veel beter, het tempo gaat omhoog, er zit veel meer plezier in en funk(?) Tot aan Purple Rain, maar dat nummer is misschien toch best wel heel erg mooi, ook al is het overplayed as fuck. Hoe dan ook, 2e helft red het album voor mij volledig en brengt het naar een sterke 4 sterren! FAVO: Let's go crazy, Computer Blue, When doves cry, I would die 4 u, Baby im a star, Purple Rain
Litersalyl OOZING with sparkles and synths and serving ATROCIOUS amounts of CUNT this albums just so camp and fun and awesome... the synths and the bass and Prince's guttural screams it's just a soundscape of awesomeness. Very enjoyable indeed. Loved 'When Doves Cry' or whatever it was called. It does seem that the more popular songs tend to be the best. Darling Nikki and Purple Rain were great. Just very good. So fun.
i really liked this album, the bright synths against the thumping bass, string arrangements set alongside prince's flowing vocals. there are a couple of weaker moments, but songs like 'purple rain' and 'computer blue' prove the weak spots the exception rather than the rule
The hits are great, especially Let;s Go Crazy. The other tracks are so-so. Still, a solid 4. The movie was awful, though.
Ahhh voisinpa antaa tälle 4.5 tähtee…… paljon parempi imo ku 1999 vaik seki bängäs mut tässä must tuntuu et prince on vaa enemmän… prince. Sen rääkyminen, kitara, lyriikka, taustalaulajat, kaikki vitun mintissä ja ku purple rain alko soimaan….. vitunmoiset kylmikset.
Great music, greater vibe, best hot chicken in Nashville
Great singles elevate this album to greatness.
prince... mies vai nainen ei väliä so smexyyyy... so fcking sexy yysex sexs sexsexsexsxsexs... hullu hiuset. liikkuu niin sulava liikunta, tukka niin hullut... unmatched.... pornooooooo pornoooooooooooooo...... prinssi näytä munaaa pliiiiiiiiiissssssss.. rinc.. prink.. plllllssaaaaaaaaaaaaaa muna munaaa muaaaaaa aaaaaaahhhhhhhh . google kuinka pitkä kili prinssilläö... ok google prinsselin kikkelin koko!!!! nyt heti paikalla!!!!!! homoseeeeeeeeeex homosexexsexsesexsex... wait...oottakaa....sil on IILIMATOI???????????????? PILIS??????? ok... kohta meikäl iilimatoi pepus........ hyvä albumi btw pupel rain
Classic 80s
Prince is pretty iconic eh
I feel like I was just shot out of a cocaine cannon. That's one of the highest energy albums I've ever heard. Overall I really liked it, but like most cocaine highs, once I came down the whole thing was pretty much a blur. I don't remember much off this album off this album other than I had a really fun time on it.
he did something
I realize that giving Purple Rain anything less than 4 stars is widely considered blasphemous. Its place as one of the “greatest records of all time” is not lost on me—that’s a distinction it deserves, even if I don’t fully agree with it. In my estimation though, Purple Rain contains one killer party track (Let’s Go Crazy) and three truly great songs (When Doves Cry, I Would Die 4 You, and Purple Rain). Ok I guess it does deserve 4 stars.
Solid 4 stars. The guy is a wizard
very very good isnt it good
Smooove
If you don't like this album, well... then Maybe you're just like my mother She's never satisfied
Unbelievable talent and confidence, when they made Prince they broke the mold
Pretty good, I mean it's prince idk what else I expected
so many different sounds and ideas, driven by such incredible musicianship, with so much passion and exuberance - i take off a star for some of the gross smut though, i don’t give a shit
Totally enjoyed it - has stood the test of time - darling Nikki a classic within a world of classics
One of the greatest albums of all time. No one else could have made this. Encapsulates so much of what makes Prince an icon.
7/10. Would listen again.
love prince, i think this album is very good, but not his best. good hits, but not all of it is my favorite
Good to listen all the way through properly
Finest sound well
Big respect for this man. Good music and playing. Now serve me up some pancakes and I’m outta here
Never listened to the whole thing. Almost perfect.
I think Prince is extremely talented. Great music and guitar.
This was a huge album in its day. I was not a Prince fan so I never listened to the entire album. But I do appreciate his musicianship. ANd now I can see that this album was actually quite complex. There are many layers to the songs and the production. The style is unique and varied for much of the album. And there are good songs in adddiition to the many hits. 4.4
Second half of the album slaps
Should have listened to it sooner. Great stuff, but by no means is it an all timer for me personally.
This is very much of its time, but that does not detract from the album. Simply musically wonderful
That's not my taste in musik. But he's a fantastic artist
Not what I was expecting - more electric and poppy. Still, I like the vibe and the lyrics. Favourite track: Computer Blue.
I went into this expecting a 5/5 album, but this didn't reach that height for me. Perhaps it is my expectations, or perhaps I am comparing Prince to later artists he helped inspire, but this album is somewhat bland (if generally good; like a hearty bowl of oatmeal). I think my favorite track would have to be "I Would Die 4 U," something about the staccato lyrics manages to excite me more than the other tracks.
Cracking album.
I love the transition from I Would Die 4 U to Baby I'm a Star. I Would Die 4 U is probably my favourite Prince song. it's not very melodic, but somehow it just hits. Prince can be a bit much as a performer, but overall I thought it was good. Good fun energy and ending on an emotional note.
Overall pretty good. Got some classics.
Great album by the purple one
This one brings back memories of my high school days. A great album and the movie was pretty good too.
🔥
Favorite Tracks: Purple Rain When Doves Cry
When Doves Cry and Purple Rain are two of my fave songs from the 80s. The Beautiful Ones and Lets Go Crazy are also quality tunes.
Such a creative and fun record. Proper 80s fun vibe. Opening track a total crazy banger. Super emotive and wild vocals. The Beautiful Ones is probably the wildest vocals I've ever heard in a song. Darling Nikki is seductively cool. And wrap things up, the perfect rock ballad Purple Rain. Pinnacle of emotional rock. Loved it!
When doves cry is an absolute classic. The rest is good but not great. Soft 4
Lots of bangers mixed with some sleepers
This one is a rollercoaster! The bangers are high and the 80s synthy riffs are low. My emotions flip flopped between annoyed, wooed, horny, bored. I can honestly say there is and will only ever be one Prince.
It only took 6 albums for Prince to get a # 1 album. Game changing. Nothing like it then and now. An original artist a with sound all his own. And it kept pouring…
Quite funky and great guitar playing. Production feels a bit cluttered at times but overall very enjoyable. Standout: When Doves Cry
Ratings: 5: I will happily play this album anytime 4: I may occasionally play this album of my own free will 3: I will happily listen to this if someone plays it in the background 2: I will tolerate this if it is playing in the background 1: I will leave the room if someone plays this in the background Oh to be from Minnesota and not rate this a 5. I get the widespread acclaim. I enjoy listening to this album. I always think I might play this on my own and because it is on a best of list, but I never quite get there. Too polished for my tastes if that makes any sense.
Loved the movie and love the album. Includes "Let's Go Crazy", "Darling Nikki", and of course, the outstanding title track "Purple Rain".
Some tracks I'm not so bothered about, but the others make up for it.
STANDOUTS: Let's Go Crazy Darling Nikki When Doves Cry I Would Die 4 U Purple Rain OVERALL: 4.25/5
4 stars
Loved this album when it first came out. Still great, but sounds surprisingly dated...
Really enjoyed it and oddly enough the song "purple rain" was I think my least favorite
Pretty great
Like dark chocolate with some wine, good to be enjoyed, just often enough. 4.1
Guay. Un 5.
Relevant now with the Drake vs. Kendrick beef, relevant then with that hilariously absurd Simpsons reference.
This album is a classic. The biggest hits are huge but the whole album is interesting. Prince is a supreme talent and this album showcases it as well as any others.
Strong 4. Randy bugger
Great but very repetitive rhythm as per my opinion.
So many fantastic songs. Prince was such an amazing artist
SONGS ABOUT FUCKING I know and enjoy most of these songs but I think the last time I heard Darling Nikki it was just the first half. I love the double bass drum bit at the end, what a weird and satisfying addition. This isn't Prince's best guitar album but it's still virtuoso playing. It's hard to say he's underrated but I feel like he does get lumped in to lists where he is by far the best player. The songs on this album sound like you imagine the cover does. Like there is nothing more "Purple Rain" then this album blasting in the studio while Prince poses for that shot on the motorcycle. It is an exact pairing of audio to visual. Just perfect. All that said, this isn't a 5 star album for me. It's got just enough of what has become cheesey to my ears that it's a 4. But it's a high 4 for sure.
Lots of bangers, but a few duds, too, hence only 4 stars.
Legendary album. I believe this is the third Prince album I've gotten on this list and I definitely enjoy it the most due to more of the guitar driven songs. More ballads present on this album as well which are usually my jam. There's still some songs that are pretty forgettable or at the least, NOT bangers. But overall just a great album that I should become even more familiar with!
Prince was truly one of a kind. It's hard not to love this with Prince's funk, suaveness, uniqueness, etc in top form here.
This is worlds better than 1999. Thoroughly enjoyable
Great album
A classic!
I don’t like the 80s sounds typically, but these are the best 80s songs I’ve heard.
Fire album love love love the guitar prince is truly one of the best
Ik balanceer altijd tussen extreem genieten en een beetje walgen van Prince. Het kan een arrogante kwal zijn met hele discutabele schunnige teksten. Maar, bij sommige nummers als Purple Rain ontkom je niet aan zijn enorme kwaliteiten als muzikant: vocale uithalen, bizarre gitaarsolo’s, een extatische songstructuur. Zijn synthmelodieën zijn geniaal in When Doves Cry. Dan heb je meteen mijn 2 favoriete nummers van dit album. De rest van het album kan daar naar mijn mening niet helemaal aan tippen. Jammer, want het had hall of fame status kunnen bereiken (voor mij dan). Nu is het een solid enjoyable listen. Highlights: Purple Rain, When Doves Cry Rating: 8
Als je mij vraagt wie het meest talentvolle figuur uit de 20e-eeuwse muziekindustrie is, dan denk ik toch wel snel aan Prince. Multi-instrumentalist, entertainer pur sang, en stijlicoon met een miljoenenfranchise. De man was niet te houden in zijn hoogtijdagen. Maar op muzikaal vlak zijn het wel andere periodes uit zijn veelzijdige loopbaan die het beste klikken met m'n smaak, dan deze 80s synth-pop soundtrack. Z'n disco-funk van het voorgaande album, of zijn 70s R&B hits, bijvoorbeeld. Vooral de eerste helft van het album is erg bezig met het neerzetten van een filmische soundscape (hire me Pitchfork), maar de nummers blijven niet echt op mijn netvlies. Met uitzondering van 'The Beautiful Ones', die z'n sporen wel nalaat na die epische climax. Kantje twee heeft meer om het lijf, en presenteert een fenomenale reeks pop songs. Nummers als 'I Would Die 4 U' en 'Baby I'm a Star' raken echt de sweet spot tussen guilty pleasure en muzikale grandeur. Dan moet ik toch uiteindelijk concluderen, dat ondanks dat het genre-wise en esthetisch niet mijn favoriete Prince fase is, dat hij uiteindelijk gewoon wel weer een mooie verzameling solide pop songs op de mat legt, geconcludeerd door een grootse uitsmijter in 'Purple Rain' zoals alleen hij dat kan. 8/10 Highlights: The Beautiful Ones When Doves Cry I Would Die 4 U
Classic from beginning to end.
So good. -1 point for a little bit too much Prince screaming high pitched notes. This was the album that kept Springsteen Born in the USA from #1. Let's Go Crazy, I would die for U, and Purple Rain are standouts. But the whole album is great. Prince can really shred.
Great album with some absolute classics on it. The associated film is a fun watch too.
An album that inspired a very 80's movie. Prince is a musician rivalled by few. the album is very good. Not 100% my taste, but a seminal 80's work.
Our parents' horniest music also just so happens to be one of instrumentally most progressive futuristic pop endeavours of its time.
Once in a while, a pop album impresses me. This is one of those times. I think the main difference is I view most pop music as being produced within a predefined, rigid framework, and designed specifically to use that to maximize its sales. Prince, on the other hand, while aware of this framework, not only refuses to let it control him or his work, but actually innovates within it, pushing the boundaries and almost comfortably redefining what other artists will need to do in the future to keep up.
Better than I thought
It's kinda cool to look back on this album after all these years. I never liked Prince's personal style much, but his abilities as a songwriter and musician cannot be denied.
a Classic. Princes talent shines on this one.
Classic prince album
Who's surprised that my favorite song off of this is the one that led to the creation of black-and-white, parental advisory sticker? Not an album that will reshuffle my Top 50 but it's stylish, funky, and romantically perverted. So naturally I like it!
Genious musician
It's been a while since I've listened from start to finish. Still solid, but not as impactful as it was when I was younger.
A fantastic album. No notes
The quintessential Prince album loaded with a bunch of bangers.
Det här är en given skiva på en lista över 1001 bästa albumen. Lets go crazy, Whwn Doves Cry, I would die for you och såklart Purple rain är ju grymma låtar. De andra är kanske lite mer utfyllnad. Men får en 4a för att han är en musikalisk begåvning.
Hell yeah.
7/10
8/10 I love this record. When doves cry is one of my favorite songs and the rest of the songs are fun and just well executed. 4-15-2024
Wow this is way better than I was expecting. Sort of back side heavy as I loved 4 of the last 5 songs
So good.
I wasn't really into this when it came out, but I definitely appreciate it more now.
Sick
det lyder godt :) jeg tror jeg giver det her 4/5
I don’t have the nostalgia for Prince like a lot of people have. Still a very great artist and I enjoyed the album for the most part. 4/5 Will likely listen again
Purple Rain is a fun listen with some all time greats, and always will be.
I think I would like this more on multiple listens.
I get it. It's Prince so it has to be rated higher even though it's so stuck in it's time that it hasn't aged as well as some other 80's albums. Well fine. You can have your inflated score. But I do want to point out that Purple Rain isn't a good song. It's boring and too long.
Absolutely amazing album.
Prince is undoubtedly a musical genius, the song purple rain is probably one of the best songs ever, but I just wished the rest of the album was at that caliber too
Much better than 1999 in my opinion, the songwriting is more intricate, Prince is crazier, flashier, just like I think he should be.
much better than the first prince album I had !! purRrRrPLE rAaaiNNNNNN !!
Episode 3 of me not understanding the admiration of Prince as a studio artist. But this is the tightest record yet, yielding 1 star for each of 'Darling Nikki', 'When Doves Cry', 'I Would Die 4 U', and 'Purple Rain'.
It’s the same with most Prince records when comparing it to his live sound - the production can seem a bit flat and robotic. Purple Rain is no exception, but it’s nowhere near to the extend of some of his others albums. That being said, Purple Rain contains hit after hit of legendary tracks with especially Side B being a stone cold classic. It’s still closer to a 3 than to a 5. But it’s so obviously better than a 3.
I have not listened to this album in full yet but I was glad to this time since it was so awesome. I have listened to some of Prince’s music including When doves cry and Purple Rain. Another track that I would add to my favorites was: Let’s go crazy. I will definitely listen again!
Time for a fun fact: I've been conciously avoiding this album (Prince as a whole tbh) for 3 years and I'm not even sure why, so this will be my first listen of Purple Rain. Let's Go Crazy: Ok it's barely started and I already got hit with pure 80s with the slightly detuned synth, those drums and the vocals with those effects. The first guitar solo is drowned on the synth and drums but sounds cool, THE SECOND SOLO THO WAS EXCELLENT. Take Me with U: Nice pop song, I didn't listen to anything worth mentioning but it's a cool song. The Beautiful Ones: The synth as I've said on previous songs mesmerizes me, but I prefer faster rockier sounding Prince than slower soulier (If that's a word) sounding Prince from what I've listened in this record. Computer Blue: Weird intro to an absolute banger, every instrument is great. Darling Nikki: Another banger, the guitar tone is great. I don't usually pay attention to the lyrics that much in the first listen but damn these are way too silly not to notice. When doves cry: Vocals remind me of Bowie and they're really strong, catchy and present, something even the best produced pop albums oftentimes fail at. The instrumentals are beyond top notch and I'm regretting postponing this album for so long just because of this song alone. I Would Die 4 U: Not precisely memorable but good nevertheless. I love the drums. Baby I'm a Star: Pure 80s energy, it feels like something that'd sound on one of those awful colorful gyms where everybody had funny hairstyles. Purple Rain: The best song to be called "[Something] Rain". Overall, I think the record is a great embodiment of its decade. I wasn't sure wether it deserved 4 or 5 stars up until the very end because it had GREAT songs yet some of them weren't memorable, but purple rain made me decide on 4. SCORE: 4 BEST SONG: WHEN DOVES CRY or LET'S GO CRAZY WORST SONG: BABY I'M A STAR
58/1001 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑
Undoubtedly one of the best and arguably most influential albums to come out of the 80's. I loved most of the album then and I still love most of it today.
I really enjoyed this album. It was exactly what I needed on an early Saturday morning start. I ended up listening to it twice, which says everything. Purple Rain has an incredible sound. It moves effortlessly between funk, dance and rock, all tied together with gritty, emotional lyrics. It feels big and dramatic but never overblown. There is swagger, vulnerability and pure musical brilliance running through it. Darling Nikki is wild and outrageous. You cannot help but be entertained. Most of the album is packed with strong songs, though I did struggle a bit with Computer Blue. It feels slightly less immediate than the rest. The title track Purple Rain is monumental. Emotional, soaring and timeless. It completely justifies the album’s reputation. Favourite song: Purple Rain Least favourite song: Computer Blue Album artwork: I love the cover. Iconic, dramatic and perfectly matched to the music
8/10 honestly a little surprised I didn’t like this more it’s a classic, but for some reason just didn’t really effect me as much still, I thought it was very well written and enjoyable
Very good!
It kicks ass obviously and in all sorts of ways. Cumulatively it does leave me feeling a bit like I ate too much ice cream or something though
Solid album with a lot of standout tracks. Worth a listen again.
A bit too 80s but quite good
The sound texture/layering was awesome on this, it made for a cool atmosphere. Standouts: purple rain, let’s go crazy, when doves cry
I mean…
Vraiment mieux aimé que 1999, ce n'est même pas comparable. J'ai trouvé ça tellement plus cohérent, tellement plus accrocheur sans être générique. Tellement plus poignant. Un excellent album sans vraiment de moment mort. 9/10
Classic. Not a 5 though.
This is some peak 1984. Prince is amazing, yes, but the production brings this down a bit for me.
This album has a well deserved legendary reputation. My two favorite Prince songs ("When Doves Cry" and title track) plus the dirty, dirty "Darling Nikki" and "Computer Blue" make this an easy 4, bordering on a five. "Take Me With U" and "The Beautiful Ones" creep it even closer, but it falls juuuuuuuuuuust short. Call it a 4.75.
When he is good he is very good. On a par with Hendrix for guitar playing. Has written some of the best pop music in the history of the world and is a manic purple sex pixie to boot. There is a certain amount of filler though so only 4 stars but the singles are what all music should be judged against.
In my opinion, Prince’s most accessible album, with great tracks.
lets go crazy- 7 or 8. take me with you- 6 or 7 the beautiful ones- 4 or 5 im bored 😭 computer blue- ? 7 darling nikki- 6 or 7 when doves cry- 6 or 7. please stop making those noises. i would die for you- 7 baby im a star- 7 purple rain- 7 it feels sacrilegious to give it 4 stars but its the truth of the matter. favorite track- computer blue
This album has some iconic songs. I can appreciate Prince's artistry, even if I thought that the song Purple Rain went on too long.
Great album, I’ve heard a couple songs here and there but never to the whole. As one review said aptly, so excessive but so uncluttered! Shows its age but it has aged well. Lots of hit songs just from this one album, was a pleasure throughout.
I was already mostly familiar with Purple Rain because I don't live under a rock. The previous Prince album I got was not my cup of tea. And honestly, Prince isn't really my thing in general. I think the thing about his music that generally turns me off is the very-80s sounds used. It's something that makes much of that decade unlistenable to me. Prince can pull it off, but I don't see him becoming a favorite of mine. ...But when he's good he's good! And Purple Rain is fantastic. The energy is there, it's got feeling, it's got heart, and those 80s sounds really kind of faded away pretty quickly.
Great, quirky 80s album! Very fun, foot tapping tracks. Good for the whole family (although Darling Nikki may provoke some uncomfortable questions from your younger ones!) Replayability level is high!! Mid 4
Great!
Starts off with a true banger in "Let's Go Crazy" with 3-4 more classic hits sprinkled throughout.
I have liked Prince and knew a lot of songs of this album, but I had never listened to it all the way through. I really enjoyed it.
This is a really great, groovy album with so much complexity and layers. There are many hit songs on it, 'Let's Go Crazy' is my favorite which is a fantastic opener of this album. This was my first listen, and perhaps I need a few relistens to fully appreciate this album. I liked Sign o' Times at my first listen slightly better, so I'll give Purple Rain a 4 but it might change in the future.
Je connaissais pas vraiment Prince. J'ai été vraiment surprise.
Very colorful, a lot is going on... makes me interested in listening to more Prince albums
p520. 1984. 4 stars. Almost perfect. There are some classics on this - it's just let down by dated 80s synths and filler tracks.
clearly iconic, lots of bangers, but VERY 80s, so not massively my cup of tea
Holy fuck8ng shit that took so long to get this one 5 if it was just i would die 4 you 10 times 4
I remember all of these songs would be played on KEGL, The Eagle, in the metroplex. The music is great, but a couple of the songs just feel like they carry a bit too long.
Duck Tales woo-ooh.
It was a very classic album. Every single song was consistently good. Some were standouts like Darling Nikki and When Doves Cry.
A classic as always Top tracks: Let’s Go Crazy, When Doves Cry, Purple Rain
really enjoyed this album. Although I personally don't love the song Darling Nikki it does bring up a funny memory for me. This album does a great job of blending styles and doing it seamlessly.
Good
It's a lot of layers. It was good to hear the familiar songs, but Darling Nikki just felt sleazy to me. I also couldn't get all the way through the end of Purple Rain. It just gets overwrought.
Being a child of 80s and 90s, I’ve always been a Prince fan. I still don’t like every song on the album but this is classic Prince for sure.
smooth
Some amazing songs, but very hit or miss. You can’t deny when doves cry or darling Nikki, but some of the other songs are a little too out there to be listenable. Killer guitar playing though.
Yesterday I was reading the fight with the seven ai reincarnations of the artist in ready player two, what a fitting coincidence ^^ Overall such a dancy album with good songs. When doves cry will stay cool forever!
Not a massive prince fan, but it must be said that he is an absolute musical genius. I wish I was more into his music. Also wish the movie was better! I enjoyed listening to the album in its entirety. Not my thing, but it and he is amazing! Solid 4
Very funky.
When Doves Cry gets this album 4 stars by itself, Darling Nikki is still one of the dirtiest songs I have heard. It's not perfect so not 5 stars, but 4.5 stars would be my true score.
This album generates a lot of memories for me. Whether it be sneaking in to see the movie at AMC when clearly underage, or slow dancing a little too close to the title track at my 8th grade dance and not giving a sh*t what the nuns thought. This whole album oozed sexuality, and laid the foundation for teenage fantasies as well as future parental advisory disputes with Tipper Gore. From back to front every track is solid. And it’s fascinating to know that the last three songs on it have many tracks that were kept from live shows. Especially the title track with a lot of content apparently taken from a 1983 performance. 80s synth pop at its best.
Goddammit Prince is great. One of the most talented, creative and original artists of all time. Can you still say he’s an underappreciated guitarist? Or have people caught on? Purple Rain is one of my favorite songs of all time and the Super Bowl performance is legendary. Darling Nikki was new to me and had me blushing like a 10 year old boy. Mr. Nelson, I say to you… Thank you for a funky time. Call me up whenever you wanna grind.
Though the production is of it’s time this album is brilliant. Varied, fabulous songs and several cutting edge classics. The title track fade out lasts a week but it still doesn’t outstay its welcome. When Doves Cry is that rare breed of dance hit with killer guitar. The sexism is immature but, well, it was the eighties.
Good album. I think I've heard most of the songs before. Maybe one or two new ones, but Price/AFKAP is always a good time.
Surprised I have never listened to this album in my whole life. I like it a lot, it's cool very trendy. 1984?! That's ages ago and he made this album, how sick is that.
I might type of music normally but songs for my youth and an amazing musician. I still consider one of the best guitar players ever.
purple rainnnn
Prince grooves. Sometimes his grooves are not for me.
Most are great songs. But towards the end of the album it starts to make less sense
Very 1980s ish, synths, 80s rock band, love the music techniques used (harmonies and rhythm), innovation, sfx, love 'Darling Nikki', love the instrumentals
Although it sounds dated, it is still pretty stellar
the genius of prince. he was a prolific songwriter that wrote most of his own songs (as well as songs for other artists). he could (and did) play any instrument that you put in front of him on his albums. this album is at the crossroads of pop, rock, and funk… really a perfect balance of each, none of which overshadow the others. a brilliant effort from a brilliant mind. highlights: “darling nikki”, “when doves cry”, “purple rain”.
Super 80s classic. Prince was always so creative.
Esta bastante fresco (para mi), nunca habia escuchado prince sabiendo que era el, asi que refrescante
several really popular songs
This is a better Prince album, in my opinion. It reminds me of the late 80s.
Fun stuff, good musical backing, enjoyed!
Really good songs, better than the other Prince album that was on 1001 albums because these weren’t as experimental and more standard, more sing-alongy 3/4****
Great pop/funk album, so fun!
Banging album, sex icon, I love his little purple suit 💜
Karen loved it!
Let’s Go Crazy is a perrenial banger. Take Me with U is an interesting and subtly discordant tune I’d never heard. The Beautiful Ones is an intensely cringe ballad. The lyrics are on the nose and his almost screaming at the end is way OTT. Not a great song. Computer Blue is another odd duck. Starts with a strange rock intro with one woman abiding by everything Lisa asks for, Prince sings, there is a weird ELO style break in the middle and the rock break comes back at the end. Darling Nikki is known as a classic but musically the song doesn’t really wow. The lyrics seem to be what makes this song memorable. This album is starting to feel much less coherent. So many strange styles mixed in. Much more avant garde almost. This transitions into When Doves Cry. The difference in impact is stark. When Doves Cry crafts a clear image and generates and eminently danceable pop-rock hybrid. The musical style in this song is very fresh and unique. I almost wanted to say “Prince, listen to the power of this. You don’t need to try so hard to be oblique and varied in the other songs.” He even includes a longer interlude at the end with a baroque flourish to end. It works here. I had forgotten about I Would Die for U. So happy that memories of hearing it came flooding back. Again, what a song. It works and has that coherence. I know that Prince intentionally inputs a flamboyant air to his music on this album. It works where it works but it’s so jarring when it is used with extreme intentionality. Don’t remember hearing Baby, I’m a Star. I was super young when Purple Rain came out in theatres. I remember my dad taking me to see it even though I was way too young. Pretty sure the movie broke part way through. This song had that classic jumpy, danciness to it. It even seems to have a slight homage to the style of Morris Day and the Time in it. This was Prince at his most musically intuitive. He was so talented at hearing similarities between styles. Follow this up with the last track, Purple Rain. Such a dramatic tone shift. I generally hate ballads and this will always hold a place in my heart. It’s gentle without being earnest. Overall, I’m surprised that such an important album has two exceptionally weak songs on it. I’d say three but I know that Darling Nikki has its devotees. Glad I listened to the whole album finally. Though I think I’ll stick to relistening to the hits.
Classic but very 80s.
3rd Prince album and he's fine. Like the music is good but it doesn't excite me like other artists. Talented guy for sure but just not for me overall.
not only was the instrumentation on this album very good, but princes vocals where phenomenal as well. imo the eccentric + funky guitar solos throughout this album are what really make it. though i don’t think many songs on this album will be on my regular rotation cause they have that 80s sound im not too fond of, i enjoyed almost every track and i can see why this album is so iconic
The classics elevate this from a 3 to a 4. Everything in between isn’t bad but were kinda forgettable
Amazing
The end of the beautiful ones is great. I like all of his songs but I hate when he sings in his falsetto. Also I dislike purple rain song until he stops singing. Then it’s cool.