Prince, born Prince Rogers Nelson, was a legendary American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his electrifying performances, bold fashion, and genre-defying music. From his sultry falsetto to his boundary-pushing lyrics, Prince captivated the world with his originality and artistry.
At just seven years old, he wrote his first song, Funk Machine—a glimpse of the genius to come. By 19, he had a record deal with Warner Bros., and his 1979 album Prince went platinum.
With hits like Dirty Mind, Controversy, and 1999, he redefined pop and funk, but it was Purple Rain in 1984 that skyrocketed him into superstardom, selling over 20 million copies globally.
Though he passed away in 2016, Prince’s influence still echoes through generations of artists and fans who continue to celebrate his fearless creativity and empowering messages.
Ready to get inspired? Here are Prince’s most powerful quotes and sayings that will spark your creativity and elevate your mindset.
Fun Fact: Prince once changed his name to an unpronounceable symbol and was dubbed “The Artist Formerly Known As Prince.”
Table of Contents
Famous Prince Quotes
Sometimes I wish life was never-ending, and all good things, they say, never last.
—From the song “Sometimes It Snows in April” (1986)
A bittersweet meditation on impermanence.
I like criticism. It makes you strong.
—Prince, 1996 press interview
Prince didn’t shy from critique—instead, he used it as fuel for growth.
There’s something about having people around you giving you energy that makes you feel wanted and loved.
—Prince, 2014 interview
He cherished the connection with his fans and the magic of a shared experience.
The internet’s completely over. … There’s no danger that I’ll ever go on the internet.
—Prince, The Daily Mirror, 2010
A tongue-in-cheek, often-quoted moment highlighting his playful contrarian spirit.
You can always tell when the groove is working or not.
—Prince, interview with MTV, 1985
Prince trusted intuition and feeling—both in music and in life.
Prince Quotes on Creativity & Individuality
I don’t really care so much what people say about me because it usually is a reflection of who they are.
—Prince, interview with Tavis Smiley, 2009
Prince’s self-assuredness is a powerful lesson in authenticity—don’t let others define you.
There’s a dark side to everything.
—From the song “Sign O’ The Times” (1987)
Prince’s art was never afraid to look at reality honestly, a trait that gave his creativity depth.
Prince Quotes on Love & Relationships
Love is too weak to define just what you mean to me.
—From the song “Adore” (1987)
His take on love goes beyond clichés, capturing how true feelings transcend words.
I only want to see you laughing in the purple rain.
—From the song “Purple Rain” (1984)
A line that has become a symbol of comfort, hope, and vulnerability in relationships.
Prince Quotes on Life & Purpose
No child is bad from the beginning. They just imitate their atmosphere.
—From the song “The Ladder” (1985)
Prince often challenged us to reflect on environment, growth, and personal responsibility.
If you lend your consciousness to someone else, you’re a robot.
—Prince, 2011 Ebony interview
A call to independent thought and self-awareness in an age of conformity.
Prince Quotes on Music & Artistry
The music industry is a matrix that is counter to what is natural and right.
—Prince, The Guardian, 2011
A bold critique from a true industry revolutionary.
I don’t play a lot of fancy guitar. I play raw.
—Prince, interview with Guitar World, 1998
Prince’s artistry was about emotion and honesty, not just technical skill.
Prince Quotes on Empowerment & Freedom
When you wake up, each day looks the same, so each day is a new beginning.
—Prince, The Beautiful Ones (2019)
A reminder to find possibility and empowerment in every morning.
Too much freedom can lead to the soul’s decay.
—From the song “The Cross” (1987)
Prince valued freedom, but also cautioned about its responsibilities.
Let Prince Remind You to Shine
Prince’s legacy goes far beyond music. His words—honest, bold, and deeply original—continue to inspire us to embrace individuality, creativity, and love. By living unapologetically and encouraging others to do the same, Prince left a mark that endures in every note and every quote.
