Prince's Biggest Hits: Songs You Didn't Know He Wrote

Prince, the musical genius, wasn't just about rocking the stage with his own hits. Guys, he was a songwriting machine, penning some mega-hits for other artists that you probably didn't even realize he had a hand in! So, let's dive into some of these iconic tracks and uncover Prince's hidden contributions to the music world.

1. "Manic Monday" - The Bangles

"Manic Monday," the ultimate 80s anthem for anyone dreading the start of the work week, was actually written by Prince under the pseudonym "Christopher Tracy" – a nod to his character in the film "Under the Cherry Moon." Can you believe it? The Bangles' version is the one we all know and love, with its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about the Monday blues. But the song's origins trace back to Prince's vault of unreleased material. He originally intended it for his protégé group, Apollonia 6, but it eventually found its way to The Bangles, helping them skyrocket to fame. The story goes that Prince was impressed by The Bangles' talent and offered them the song, sensing it would be a perfect fit for their sound. And boy, was he right! "Manic Monday" became a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986 and solidifying The Bangles' place in pop history. The song's success not only boosted The Bangles' career but also showcased Prince's versatility as a songwriter, proving he could craft hits for female artists just as effectively as for himself. The blend of Prince's songwriting genius and The Bangles' signature harmonies created a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Think about it: the next time you're stuck in Monday traffic, remember that Prince is the guy to thank (or blame!) for that earworm.

2. "Nothing Compares 2 U" - Sinéad O'Connor

Okay, this one might be a bit more well-known, but it's still worth highlighting because of the sheer emotional power of Sinéad O'Connor's rendition. "Nothing Compares 2 U" was originally written and composed by Prince for his side project, The Family, in 1985. Their version, while good, didn't achieve mainstream success. However, when Sinéad O'Connor covered it in 1990, it became a global phenomenon, topping charts around the world and cementing her status as a major artist. O'Connor's raw and heart-wrenching vocals, combined with the song's simple yet profound lyrics about loss and longing, struck a chord with millions. The music video, featuring O'Connor's close-up shots and tearful expressions, only amplified the song's emotional impact. It's a testament to Prince's songwriting that his song could be reinterpreted and transformed into something so deeply personal and resonant by another artist. While Prince's original version is more polished and funk-infused, O'Connor's rendition strips it down to its emotional core, revealing the vulnerability and pain at the heart of the lyrics. It's a powerful reminder of how a great song can take on different meanings and touch people in different ways, depending on the artist's interpretation. "Nothing Compares 2 U" remains a timeless ballad, a testament to both Prince's songwriting genius and Sinéad O'Connor's unforgettable performance. It's a song that will continue to move listeners for generations to come, reminding us of the universal experience of love and loss.

3. "Sugar Walls" - Sheena Easton

Now, let's talk about a song that sparked some major controversy back in the day. "Sugar Walls," performed by Sheena Easton, was penned by Prince and became a bit of a talking point due to its suggestive lyrics. The song, released in 1984, was included on Easton's album "A Private Heaven" and quickly gained attention for its sexually charged content. Written from a female perspective, the lyrics use metaphorical language to describe intimate encounters, which led to some radio stations banning the song. Despite the controversy, "Sugar Walls" became a hit, reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and further establishing Easton as a pop star. Prince's involvement in the song added to its intrigue, as he was known for pushing boundaries and exploring themes of sexuality in his music. While the lyrics may seem tame by today's standards, they were considered quite provocative at the time, contributing to the song's notoriety. The song's success demonstrated Prince's ability to write catchy and commercially viable songs, even when dealing with controversial subject matter. "Sugar Walls" remains a memorable and somewhat scandalous chapter in both Prince's and Sheena Easton's careers, showcasing their willingness to take risks and challenge societal norms through their music. It's a reminder of a time when pop music was pushing the envelope and sparking conversations about sex and censorship.

4. "Stand Back" - Stevie Nicks

This is a rock and roll connection you might not have known about! Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac fame was inspired to write "Stand Back" after listening to Prince's "Little Red Corvette." She even credits Prince with playing the synthesizer on the track! The story goes that Nicks was driving down the road with her then-husband, listening to "Little Red Corvette" on repeat, when the melody for "Stand Back" came to her. She immediately went to a studio and started working on the song, incorporating elements of Prince's sound and style. Nicks even called Prince and invited him to contribute to the track, and he readily agreed, adding his signature synthesizer riffs to the song. "Stand Back" became a massive hit for Nicks, reaching the top 5 of the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of her signature songs. The song's success solidified Nicks' status as a solo artist and showcased her ability to blend rock and pop elements into a unique and captivating sound. Prince's contribution to the song, though uncredited on the album, is undeniable, adding a touch of his signature funk and energy to the track. "Stand Back" remains a testament to the power of musical inspiration and collaboration, demonstrating how one artist can influence another and create something truly special. It's a rock anthem that continues to resonate with audiences today, a reminder of the creative synergy between two iconic musicians.

5. "Round and Round" - Tevin Campbell

Let's jump into the early 90s R&B scene with Tevin Campbell's "Round and Round." This smooth track was written and produced by Prince, and it even appeared in the movie "Graffiti Bridge," which Prince starred in and directed. "Round and Round" was a major breakthrough for Tevin Campbell, launching his career as a teen idol and showcasing his impressive vocal range. The song's catchy melody, combined with Campbell's smooth vocals and Prince's signature production style, made it an instant hit. The lyrics, about the ups and downs of young love, resonated with teenage audiences, making the song a popular choice for school dances and radio requests. Prince's involvement in the song helped to elevate Campbell's career, giving him the credibility and exposure he needed to break into the mainstream. "Round and Round" reached the top 15 of the Billboard Hot 100 and became one of Campbell's signature songs. The song's success demonstrated Prince's ability to write and produce hits for younger artists, showcasing his versatility and his ear for talent. "Round and Round" remains a nostalgic favorite for many 90s kids, a reminder of a time when R&B was dominating the airwaves and teen idols were ruling the charts. It's a testament to the enduring power of Prince's songwriting and production skills, and the lasting impact he had on the music industry.

So, there you have it, folks! Just a small glimpse into the vast catalog of songs Prince wrote for other artists. It really highlights his incredible talent and influence on the music world. Who knew one man could be responsible for so many iconic tunes? He was a true genius, no doubt. His legacy continues to inspire musicians and fans alike, and his music will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come. From pop anthems to soulful ballads, Prince's songwriting prowess knew no bounds. He was a master of melody, lyrics, and production, and his ability to craft hits for a wide range of artists is a testament to his extraordinary talent. So next time you hear one of these songs on the radio, remember the Purple One and his hidden contributions to the music we all love.