The Greatest Guitarists Series: Prince

Prince was one of the best, most influential musicians of modern times. He was not only a prolific guitarist but also an accomplished composer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and performer. In the following text, we will focus our attention on Prince as a guitarist.

Prince has been the focus of controversy because he has been, in multiple occasions, omitted from some of the 'Top Guitarists' lists that some magazines have published. Or at least left behind the top spots.

He seems to create a polarity where either people consider him an average, non transcendent guitarist, or a guitar god with a safe place in the top 3 guitarists of all time. I have rarely met someone who thinks Prince is just a 'very good' guitarist, opinions always go to the extremes with him.

In my opinion, Prince is a genius, a 'guitar god' and belongs to the top 3 of all times. I will later let you know my other 2 guitarists in my top 3 list.

The first song that captured my interest was the already world famous Purle Rain. I am sure most guitarists will get a bit excited from listening the first chord, because they know what is about to happen. The song starts with a soulful first verse and a gospel-like chorus.

The second verse and chorus are structurally the same as the firsts but his vocal performance takes it to the next level with subtle arrangements that make you feel his 'pain'.

Then the solo comes in. Prince takes his time to build is up to a moment in which the guitar transmits powerful emotions. He makes his guitar speak, scream and cry. It is not a shred solo, it is not a blues solo, it is just pure music to be enjoyed and not critiqued or analyzed.



I would recommend my readers to check out Prince's live performances where he always plays excellent guitar solos.

Recomendation:
This version of 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' includes an incredible guitar solo by Prince.



Photo: Flavia