Interviewee: Prince
Interviewer: Tavis Smiley
Date: April 27, 2009

Prince Rogers Nelson is an American singer and songwriter known under the pseudonym Prince, and later to this unpronounceable symbol: . He would then be referred to as The Artist Formerly Known as Prince (TAFKAP). Considered as one of the most prolific and talented artists of the century, perhaps rivaled only by Michael Jackson, Prince has written and produced more than a thousand songs, many of them still unreleased. The Rolling Stone Magazine placed him in the 28th spot on the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time list in 2004, the same year he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Known for his eclecticism, flamboyant flair, and fierce independence, Prince pioneered the so-called “Minneapolis sound,” a crossbreed of funk, rock, R & B, pop and New Wave which would inspire other musicians. Throughout his colorful career, Prince has won seven Grammys, one Golden Globe, and one Academy Award.

Born On June 7, 1958 to musical parents, Prince was named after his pianist-songwriter father who was frontman of jazz combo Prince Rogers Trio. Prince credits his sound to the influences of music greats such as Jimi Hendrix, James Brown, The Beatles, Carlos Santana, Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell, and Miles Davis.

Prince released his first album in 1978. Titled For You, it featured songs entirely written, arranged, and performed by him. A multi-instrumentalist, he played all 27 instruments by himself. From this debut, a string of controversial albums would follow, containing songs with sexually explicit themes and lyrics that were not so well-received. His eccentric stage performances showcased his flashy apparel, high heels, or bikini briefs, which also created a stir.

Prince broke through with the album 1999 and proceeded to write and release successful singles “When Doves Cry”, “Let’s Go Crazy” and “Kiss.” The Purple Rain album is considered one of the 500 greatest albums of all time by the Rolling Stone, its carrier single winning an Oscar for Original Score Song.