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Like a lot of ‘80s babies, I was introduced to the music of Prince Rogers Nelson well before I learned to read. By six, I was bogarting the headphones of my mother’s cassette player on long bus trips, memorizing and mimicking the musical nuances of the Purple Rain album (“Computer Blue” is PERFECTION).
In the decades since, my love and appreciation for Prince has grown in ways I never thought it would. I not only hear the music, but I feel it now. I recognize the boundaries he pushed as a small Black man from Minneapolis and salute the large, global legacy he crafted during his career. I identify his influence in the work of Sheila E., Morris Day & The Time, Vanity 6, and the rest of my Paisley Park favorites.
I know the power of Prince.
On what would’ve been his 59th birthday, I reflect on the 13 things Prince taught me — and so many others — through his life, his artistry, and the music he left behind.
The world needs a little sex appeal.
A little controversy never hurt anybody.
Never feel like you can’t reinvent yourself.
If you let your creativity lead you, the possibilities are endless.
Never let anyone else own the rights to your brand.
Don’t be afraid to cultivate the talent of others.
People will think and say what they will about whatever you do. Do it anyway.
Embracing the things that make you unique will be the things that build your empire.
Never underestimate the power of a woman (or three) in lingerie.
Use your platform to make a statement.
Never waste a good groove.
The power of music transcends race, gender, sexuality, and social status.
Treat life like the beautiful, dirty, sexy, complex party it is.
What lesson(s) has the music of Prince taught you about life? What song or songs stand out as favorites?