The legacy of Prince Rogers Nelson is an immense tapestry, and for many, the Prince The Very Best of Prince CD serves as the essential thread that ties together his most iconic early work. Released in 2001, this compilation isn't just a collection of songs; it’s a meticulously curated sonic journey through the superstar's foundational Warner Bros. Records era, showcasing the unparalleled genius that would later catapult the album to a posthumous number one position, solidifying its place as a critical entry point for both long-time devotees and new generations of fans.
At a Glance: Unpacking The Very Best of Prince CD
- Definitive Warner Bros. Era: Focuses exclusively on Prince's prolific output from 1979 to 1991, capturing his chart-topping hits and artistic evolution during this pivotal period.
- Seventeen Essential Tracks: Features a powerful sequence of 17 singles, spanning early funk anthems to global pop phenomenons, meticulously chosen to represent his commercial peak.
- More Than Just Hits: While a "greatest hits" compilation, it also subtly charts Prince's musical progression, showcasing his versatility from funk and rock to pop and R&B.
- An Ideal Entry Point: For those new to Prince, this CD provides an immediate and comprehensive understanding of his impact and sound.
- Posthumous Phenomenon: The album's incredible resurgence to number one after Prince's passing underscores its enduring appeal and the timeless quality of its tracklist.
- High-Quality Production: Mastered by industry veterans, the CD offers a crisp, faithful rendition of these legendary recordings, making it a robust listening experience.
The Blueprint of a Legend's Legacy: What Defines The Very Best of Prince CD
When The Very Best of Prince CD first arrived on July 31, 2001, it offered a streamlined distillation of Prince’s most commercially successful material from his pivotal years at Warner Bros. Records. Covering the period from 1979 to 1991, this compilation was designed to be a definitive overview, presenting a cohesive narrative of his ascent from an R&B prodigy to a global phenomenon. It debuted at number 66 on the Billboard 200, a respectable showing for a catalog release, and went on to be certified platinum by the RIAA, reflecting its consistent popularity over the years.
Its scope deliberately mirrors earlier compilations like The Hits 1, The Hits 2, and The Hits/The B-Sides, reinforcing its purpose: to gather the cream of the crop from an artist who redefined pop music. However, its true cultural significance, and indeed its commercial peak, came much later. Following Prince's tragic passing, fans worldwide flocked to his music, seeking solace and connection. This surge in interest propelled The Very Best of Prince CD, along with other key albums, to unprecedented heights, demonstrating the profound and lasting impact of his artistry. To truly grasp the magnitude of this posthumous success, and how it cemented the compilation’s place in music history, one needs to understand the broader context of Prince's posthumous #1 album. It’s a testament not just to the power of nostalgia, but to the timeless quality of the songs themselves, reaching new audiences and reaffirming their legendary status.
Decoding the Tracklist: A Journey Through Prince's Golden Era
The genius of The Very Best of Prince CD lies in its tracklist. It's not just a random assortment; it’s a carefully sequenced progression that chronicles Prince’s innovative spirit and remarkable stylistic range across a crucial 12-year period. Let's break down the 17 tracks that make this collection so compelling:
- "I Wanna Be Your Lover": Kicking off the compilation, this 1979 track from Prince showcases his early R&B and funk sensibilities. It was his first major hit, establishing him as a singular voice.
- "1999": The title track from his 1982 album, this iconic party anthem fused new wave, funk, and rock, serving as a prophetic celebration and a global breakthrough.
- "Little Red Corvette": Also from 1999, this song demonstrated Prince’s mastery of pop melody and storytelling, cementing his crossover appeal with its vivid lyrics and infectious chorus.
- "When Doves Cry": The lead single from Purple Rain (1984), this track defined an era. Its distinctive, bassline-free arrangement and haunting vocals showcased Prince's daring experimentalism and chart dominance.
- "Let's Go Crazy": Another Purple Rain smash, this high-energy rock-funk hybrid captured the electrifying essence of Prince and The Revolution's live performances and cinematic appeal.
- "Purple Rain": The epic title ballad from the film and album, this emotionally charged anthem became Prince's signature song, a monumental rock and gospel-infused masterpiece.
- "I Would Die 4 U": A pulsating, synth-driven declaration of love and devotion from Purple Rain, highlighting Prince’s ability to blend spiritual themes with danceable pop.
- "Raspberry Beret": From 1985's Around the World in a Day, this whimsical, psychedelic pop gem showed Prince's continued artistic evolution beyond the Purple Rain sound, embracing a more kaleidoscopic palette.
- "Kiss": A minimalist funk masterpiece from Parade (1986), this track proved Prince could create an undeniable groove with sparse instrumentation, winning him a Grammy for Best R&B Vocal Performance.
- "Sign 'O' the Times": The title track from his sprawling 1987 double album, this stark, socially conscious funk anthem tackled pressing issues of the day, proving his lyrical depth.
- "U Got the Look": A duet with Sheena Easton from Sign 'O' the Times, this playful, upbeat pop-funk track showed his knack for catchy hooks and dynamic collaborations.
- "Alphabet St.": From Lovesexy (1988), this innovative track blended funk, hip-hop elements, and unique vocal arrangements, showcasing his continued pushing of musical boundaries.
- "Thieves in the Temple": A soulful, dramatic ballad from the Graffiti Bridge soundtrack (1990), demonstrating his emotive vocal range and ability to craft poignant narratives.
- "Gett Off": The lead single from Diamonds and Pearls (1991), this infectious, sexually charged funk track marked the debut of The New Power Generation, ushering in a new sonic chapter.
- "Cream": Also from Diamonds and Pearls, this chart-topping track was a sleek, confident glam-funk anthem that showcased Prince's effortless cool and commercial appeal.
- "Diamonds and Pearls": The soulful, elegant title track from the 1991 album, featuring the NPG, this ballad offered a smoother, more refined sound, proving Prince's versatility.
- "Money Don't Matter 2 Night": Closing the album, this jazzy, socially aware track from Diamonds and Pearls offered a reflective, sophisticated touch, concluding the compilation with a poignant message.
This progression highlights how Prince consistently innovated while maintaining a distinct sound. From the raw funk of his early days to the stadium-rock anthems, the minimalist grooves, and the more polished R&B of the NPG era, The Very Best of Prince provides a masterclass in artistic growth and pop music craftsmanship.
Beyond the Hits: Production, Performance, and the Making of the "Very Best"
What makes The Very Best of Prince CD more than just a playlist is the meticulous detail behind its creation, rooted in Prince's unparalleled work ethic and the contributions of his collaborators. The album credits reveal a staggering depth of talent involved in these recordings:
Prince himself is credited as the primary artist, vocalist, arranger, composer, lyricist, and producer for nearly every track. This underscores his visionary control over his art. He was, quite literally, the architect of his sound. But he didn't work in a vacuum; his genius was often amplified by a core group of extraordinary musicians:
- The Revolution and The New Power Generation: These two seminal bands are credited for their integral roles. Tracks like "Let's Go Crazy" and "Purple Rain" embody The Revolution's raw energy, while "Gett Off" and "Cream" showcase the polished funk of The New Power Generation.
- Key Collaborators: Names like Wendy Melvoin and Lisa Coleman (Wendy & Lisa) are credited for their guitar, keyboard, and vocal contributions, particularly evident in the Purple Rain era and beyond. Sheila E.'s dynamic drumming and percussion on tracks like "Kiss" are iconic. Rosie Gaines contributes organ, sampling, and vocals, notably on NPG-era tracks.
- Vocalists: Cat, Camille, and Cat Glover added distinctive vocal textures, while Sheena Easton's guest vocals on "U Got the Look" were a memorable moment.
- Session Musicians: The long list of musicians, including Dr. Fink (keyboards), Brownmark (bass), Levi Seacer, Jr. (guitar/bass), Eric Leeds (brass/saxophone), and Atlanta Bliss (trumpet), speaks to the collective artistry that shaped Prince's soundscapes. Each instrument was thoughtfully placed, contributing to the lush arrangements that defined his music.
On the technical side, the mastering of the The Very Best of Prince CD was handled by industry stalwarts like Stephen Marcussen, Bernie Grundman, Howie Weinberg, and Michael Koppelman. These engineers are renowned for their ability to bring out the clarity and dynamics of recordings, ensuring that the diverse sonic palettes of Prince's catalog sound cohesive and vibrant on this compilation. Engineers like Susan Rogers and David Z., who worked extensively with Prince during his peak, also contributed to the original recordings, their expertise crucial to capturing his unique studio magic. This attention to detail in both performance and post-production ensures that each track on the CD delivers the full impact of Prince's original vision.
Why This Compilation Still Matters: Collecting, Listening, and Gifting
Even two decades after its initial release, and years after its posthumous chart resurgence, The Very Best of Prince CD remains a profoundly relevant artifact for several reasons:
For the New Fan: An Unrivaled Introduction
If you’re just beginning your journey into Prince’s vast discography, this CD is arguably the best place to start. It neatly bypasses the overwhelming choice of his 39 studio albums (and countless unreleased tracks) by delivering the most universally recognized and loved songs. You get the essential hits that define his commercial and artistic pinnacle without needing to delve into the nuances of specific album concepts or experimental phases right away. It’s like getting a curated museum tour of the highlights before exploring every single gallery.
For the Casual Listener: The Quintessential Soundtrack
For those who appreciate Prince's music but aren't hardcore collectors, this compilation provides all the necessary tracks for a party, a road trip, or simply a deep dive into his legendary sound. It’s the perfect "set it and forget it" Prince experience, offering consistent quality and timeless appeal. You’re guaranteed to hear tracks that resonate deeply, whether they’re the dance-floor fillers or the introspective ballads.
For the Collector: A Cornerstone Piece
While a dedicated Prince collector likely owns all the individual albums represented, The Very Best of Prince CD still holds value. It presents a specific mastering of these tracks, and for some, the convenience of having these particular edits and versions compiled together is a draw. Furthermore, as physical media continues its resurgence, having a clean, original pressing of this certified platinum compilation is a solid addition to any comprehensive collection. It represents a particular moment in his catalog's history.
The Posthumous Phenomenon: Reaffirming Enduring Genius
The album's incredible ascent to number one after Prince's passing in 2016 isn't just a statistic; it's a powerful cultural statement. It underscores how deeply ingrained these songs are in the collective consciousness. In a moment of collective grief, the world turned to his music, and this compilation offered an accessible, powerful way to connect with his enduring spirit. It brought his music to a new generation who might have only known him by reputation, cementing his legacy for decades to come. This posthumous success validated the "very best" claim in its title, proving that his most iconic work transcends time and circumstance.
Practical Playbook for Experiencing The Very Best of Prince
Optimizing your listening experience for The Very Best of Prince CD goes beyond simply pressing play. Here’s a practical guide to fully appreciate this seminal collection:
Choosing Your Format: CD vs. Digital
While streaming services offer instant access, the physical Prince The Very Best of Prince CD provides a distinct experience:
- Sonic Integrity: CDs often retain a higher audio fidelity compared to many compressed digital files. The mastering engineers (Stephen Marcussen, Bernie Grundman, Howie Weinberg) aimed for optimal sound on this format. Listening on a good CD player can reveal nuances in Prince's intricate arrangements you might miss otherwise.
- Tangible Connection: Holding the physical disc, examining the liner notes (if any comprehensive ones were included, though simple compilations might be brief), and seeing the artwork adds a layer of engagement. It connects you to the music in a way a digital file can't.
- Reliability: No internet connection or subscription required. Once you own the CD, the music is yours, always accessible.
Listening Strategy: From Start to Finish or Curated Dives
- The Full Journey: The most rewarding way to listen is straight through, from "I Wanna Be Your Lover" to "Money Don't Matter 2 Night." This allows you to experience Prince's evolution chronologically, observing how his sound matured and shifted from pure funk to stadium rock to more sophisticated R&B. Pay attention to the transitions between tracks; they tell a story.
- Thematic Grouping: Alternatively, group tracks by mood. Craving high-energy funk? Jump to "Kiss," "Gett Off," or "1999." Feeling introspective? "Purple Rain," "When Doves Cry," or "Money Don't Matter 2 Night" will resonate. This compilation is rich enough to serve multiple listening purposes.
- Active Listening: Don't just let it be background noise. Focus on Prince's incredible musicianship—his guitar solos, his intricate drum programming (often done by him), the layered vocals, and his profound lyrical observations. Each listen can uncover something new.
Deep Dive Opportunities: Where to Go Next
- If You Love the Purple Rain Era (When Doves Cry, Let's Go Crazy, Purple Rain, I Would Die 4 U): Your next stop must be the full Purple Rain album (1984). It's a cohesive masterpiece. Also consider Around the World in a Day (1985) for its psychedelic follow-up.
- If You're Drawn to Early Funk & Pop (I Wanna Be Your Lover, 1999, Little Red Corvette): Explore the 1999 album (1982) for more of that infectious energy, and the self-titled Prince (1979) for his foundational R&B grooves.
- If the Sophisticated Funk & Social Commentary Resonates (Sign 'O' the Times, Kiss, Alphabet St.): Delve into the sprawling double album Sign 'O' the Times (1987). For more minimalist funk, Parade (1986) is essential.
- If You Enjoy the NPG Era (Gett Off, Cream, Diamonds and Pearls, Money Don't Matter 2 Night): The full Diamonds and Pearls album (1991) is your logical next step to experience the full breadth of Prince with The New Power Generation.
By using The Very Best of Prince CD as your anchor, you can systematically navigate Prince's vast and brilliant musical universe, ensuring that each new discovery builds upon a solid foundation of his most celebrated work.
Quick Answers About The Very Best of Prince CD
Here are some common questions and clarifying answers regarding this pivotal Prince compilation:
Q: Is The Very Best of Prince CD comprehensive?
A: The Very Best of Prince CD is comprehensive within its defined scope: Prince's Warner Bros. Records period from 1979 to 1991. It includes his major commercial hits and critically acclaimed singles from that era. However, it does not include material from his later career (post-1991) or his independently released music.
Q: How does it compare to The Hits compilations?
A: It is very similar in scope to The Hits 1, The Hits 2, and The Hits/The B-Sides. The main difference is often the specific track selection and ordering. The Hits/The B-Sides (1993) is a more exhaustive collection, including B-sides and deeper cuts across two CDs, while The Very Best of Prince (2001) is a single-disc, more streamlined "greatest hits" package focusing strictly on the radio staples. Both draw from the same Warner Bros. catalog.
Q: Does it include material from all eras of Prince's career?
A: No, this compilation is specifically focused on his seminal Warner Bros. Records output, spanning 1979 to 1991. It notably omits any music released after he departed from Warner Bros., such as his NPG Records material from the mid-to-late 90s and beyond.
Q: What makes this CD a "must-have" for Prince fans or new listeners?
A: For new listeners, it's a perfect, no-filler introduction to his most celebrated work, showcasing his incredible versatility and hit-making prowess. For fans, it's a convenient, well-mastered collection of essential tracks, capturing his most impactful period in a single package. Its posthumous #1 success also highlights its enduring cultural significance.
Q: Is the sound quality good on The Very Best of Prince CD?
A: Yes, generally it is. Mastered by highly respected engineers like Stephen Marcussen and Bernie Grundman, the CD offers a crisp and dynamic presentation of these iconic tracks. The mastering aims to provide a consistent and high-fidelity listening experience across the diverse sonic landscape of Prince's Warner Bros. years.
Your Next Move: Diving Deeper into Prince's Legacy
The Prince The Very Best of Prince CD is far more than just a collection of songs; it’s a living testament to an artist who continually defied categorization and pushed the boundaries of popular music. Its enduring appeal, culminating in that poignant posthumous number one, confirms its status as an indispensable chapter in Prince’s story. Whether you're revisiting classic favorites or discovering his brilliance for the first time, this CD provides a powerful, comprehensive portal into the heart of his golden era.
So, if you haven't already, take the plunge. Immerse yourself in the sonic genius laid out on this single disc. Let "When Doves Cry" transport you, let "Kiss" move your feet, and let "Purple Rain" stir your soul. Use this compilation not just as a listening experience, but as a map to further explore the vast, intricate, and always surprising world of Prince's music. His legacy continues to inspire, and this CD is an undeniable cornerstone of that enduring legend.