Prince Albums Ranked: Fan Favorites (2025)

Ranking Prince's albums: The fan favorites

Here's how the albums stack up based on fan sentiment, community discussions, and overall buzz.

We're starting with the most beloved.

1. Sign "O" the Times (1987)

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Released after disbanding his famous backing band, The Revolution, Sign "O" the Times is often hailed by critics as the greatest work of Prince's career.

It followed a period of immense success, including the film and soundtrack for Purple Rain, which made Prince the first singer to simultaneously have a number-one film, album, and single in the US.

The album showcases his incredible versatility, blending funk, rock, soul, and pop into a sprawling double album that cemented his status as a musical genius.

Key tracks:

U Got The Look
Adore

Claiming the top spot is no surprise for this masterpiece. For many fans, Sign "O" the Times represents Prince at his most ambitious and artistically free.

It's a sprawling, eclectic work that feels like a direct transmission from his creative core, a quality that resonates deeply with his dedicated listeners.

2. Purple Rain (1984)

Purple Rain is the soundtrack to the iconic 1984 film of the same name and Prince's sixth studio album. It was his first album to officially credit his band, The Revolution.

The album was musically denser than his previous work, with full band performances and layers of guitars, keyboards, and synths. It became his commercial peak, selling 25 million copies worldwide.

It spawned number-one hits like "When Doves Cry" and "Let's Go Crazy," and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. It is regularly ranked among the greatest albums of all time.

Key tracks:

Purple Rain
When Doves Cry

While a global phenomenon, Purple Rain lands at number two in our fan-focused ranking. This suggests that while fans adore its hits and cultural impact, some prefer the sprawling artistry of its successor.

It's the album that made Prince a superstar, and its iconic status is undeniable. For many, it's the perfect entry point into his vast universe.

3. 1999 (1982)

Prince's fifth studio album, 1999, was his major breakthrough, catapulting him into the public eye. It was his first album to be recorded with his band, The Revolution.

The album's heavy use of synthesizers and drum machines helped codify the "Minneapolis sound," influencing R&B and pop for decades to come.

Its iconic title track, a protest against nuclear proliferation, became one of Prince's most recognizable songs. The music videos for "1999" and "Little Red Corvette" were also pivotal, making him one of the first Black artists heavily featured on MTV.

Key tracks:

1999
Little Red Corvette

The enduring popularity of 1999 solidifies its high standing. Fans often point to this record as the moment Prince's futuristic funk vision came into full focus.

It's a party on wax with a dark, apocalyptic undercurrent, a combination that proved both commercially successful and artistically profound.

4. Dirty Mind (1980)

Prince's third album, Dirty Mind, marked a significant artistic shift. Released in 1980, it showcased a fusion of funk, new wave, R&B, and rock elements.

The record became known for its sexually explicit lyrics and Prince's emerging androgynous image, which challenged the norms of the time.

Though it only reached number 45 on the Billboard 200, it received widespread critical acclaim and has since been recognized as a highly influential album of the 1980s.

Key tracks:

When You Were Mine
Uptown

Dirty Mind is a critical darling and a fan favorite for its raw, unfiltered energy. It's seen as a bold artistic statement, where Prince shed his earlier, more polished R&B sound for something far more confrontational and unique.

Its high ranking reflects an appreciation for Prince's fearless creativity and willingness to push boundaries.

5. Parade - Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon (1986)

As the soundtrack to the 1986 film Under the Cherry Moon, Parade was the eighth studio album from Prince and the final one credited to The Revolution.

The album moved away from the heavy rock elements of Purple Rain. Instead, it embraced psychedelic pop, sparse funk, and orchestral compositions.

Despite the film's critical disappointment, the album was acclaimed and featured the massive number-one hit, "Kiss." It was named one of the best albums of 1986 by NME and The Village Voice.

Key tracks:

Kiss
Anotherloverholenyohead

Parade is celebrated by fans for its sophisticated and European-influenced sound. It's a testament to Prince's ability to pivot stylistically while still delivering a pop masterpiece like "Kiss."

Its placement here shows a deep respect for a period where Prince was arguably at his most musically adventurous and chic.

6. Prince (1979)

Prince's self-titled second album, released in 1979, built upon the foundation of his debut. It was on this record that he first achieved significant commercial success.

The album saw Prince honing his signature blend of funk, pop, and R&B, delivering his first major hits, including "I Wanna Be Your Lover."

He continued to showcase his multi-instrumental talent, writing, arranging, producing, and performing nearly the entire album himself.

Key tracks:

I Wanna Be Your Lover
I Feel for You

This album holds a special place for many longtime fans. It represents the exciting moment when Prince's immense talent began to translate into mainstream recognition.

The pure, infectious joy of tracks like "I Wanna Be Your Lover" makes it an essential and highly-regarded part of his early evolution.

7. Controversy (1981)

Released in 1981, Controversy served as a bridge between the rawness of Dirty Mind and the synth-funk explosion of 1999.

The title track directly addressed the speculation surrounding his sexuality and racial identity, while other songs explored themes of politics, religion, and sex.

The album was certified Platinum and marked the first time Prince was associated with the color purple and used sensational spelling in song titles, like "Do Me, Baby."

Key tracks:

Controversy
Do Me, Baby

Fans appreciate Controversy as a key evolutionary step. It shows Prince refining his sound and persona, blending danceable funk with thought-provoking, and often provocative, lyrical themes.

It's a confident and focused record that laid the groundwork for the superstardom that would soon follow.

8. Lovesexy (1988)

Prince's tenth studio album, Lovesexy, was released in 1988. It was famously recorded in just seven weeks after he canceled the release of the darker, more aggressive The Black Album.

The record is a concept album centered on the struggle between good and evil, God and Satan, framed with themes of positivity and spirituality.

The album's nude cover caused controversy, but the lead single "Alphabet St." became a worldwide top-10 hit. The album was designed to be heard as a continuous piece of music.

Key tracks:

Alphabet St.
Anna Stesia

Lovesexy is often seen by fans as Prince's spiritual answer to the darkness he explored on the shelved Black Album.

Its cohesive, uplifting message and vibrant funk make it a unique and cherished entry in his discography, particularly for those who appreciate its thematic depth.

9. For You (1978)

Prince's debut studio album, For You, was released in 1978. It famously features the credit "Produced, Arranged, Composed, and Performed by Prince."

He was just a teenager when he recorded it, playing all 27 instruments heard on the album. This set the stage for his reputation as a prodigious, self-sufficient musical talent.

While a modest commercial success, its lead single, "Soft and Wet," became a minor hit and offered the first glimpse of the funk and soul sound he would soon master.

Key tracks:

Soft and Wet
My Love Is Forever

The debut album's strong showing in the fan ranking speaks to an appreciation for its incredible origin story. Listeners are still in awe of the sheer talent on display from such a young artist.

It's the genesis of everything that followed, a historical document of a genius announcing his arrival.

10. The Gold Experience (1995)

Released in 1995, The Gold Experience was the seventeenth studio album by Prince. It was credited to his unpronounceable "Love Symbol" stage name.

This album emerged during a contentious period in his career, marked by his public dispute with Warner Bros. Records.

Despite the turmoil, the album was a critical success, hailed by many as his best work since the 1980s. It spawned the worldwide hit single "The Most Beautiful Girl in the World."

Key tracks:

The Most Beautiful Girl In the World
Gold

For fans who stayed with Prince through the turbulent 90s, The Gold Experience is a triumphant record. It proved he could still craft a cohesive, brilliant, and commercially viable album even while fighting for his artistic independence.

Its mix of powerful rock anthems and smooth R&B makes it a standout from his "symbol" era.

11. Come (1994)

Come was Prince's fifteenth studio album, released in 1994 during his heated dispute with Warner Bros. Records.

The album cover famously proclaimed "Prince: 1958–1993," signaling the symbolic "death" of his stage name. From this point, he would be known by the Love Symbol.

Despite a lack of promotion from both the label and Prince himself, the album performed well overseas, topping the UK Albums Chart. It presented a dark, experimental, and minimalist sound.

Key tracks:

Space
Letitgo

This album is often seen as one of Prince's most fascinating and complex projects. It's a dark, moody record that reflects the turmoil of its creation.

Fans who appreciate his more experimental and conceptual work often hold Come in high regard, seeing it as a raw and honest artistic statement.

12. The Truth (1998)

The Truth is Prince's twenty-first studio album, originally released as the fourth disc in the 1998 box set Crystal Ball.

It stands out in his catalog as a largely acoustic-based album. The arrangements are centered around the acoustic guitar, complemented by multi-layered vocals and subtle percussion.

This intimate and stripped-down sound provided a stark contrast to the dense, multi-disc projects that surrounded it, offering a more personal and direct side of his artistry.

Key tracks:

The Truth
Don't Play Me

Fans cherish The Truth for its rarity and its stripped-back honesty. It's a quiet, reflective moment in a career often defined by bombast and spectacle.

Hearing Prince in such an unadorned, acoustic setting feels like being invited into a private jam session, a quality that makes it a beloved, if underrated, gem.

13. Batman (1989)

Released in 1989, Prince's eleventh studio album served as the soundtrack to Tim Burton's blockbuster film Batman.

The project was a massive commercial success, returning Prince to the top of the Billboard 200 chart for six consecutive weeks. It was his first number-one album since Around the World in a Day.

The lead single, "Batdance," also hit number one, and the album's dark, funky sound perfectly complemented the film's gothic aesthetic.

Key tracks:

Partyman
Batdance

While a massive commercial hit, the Batman soundtrack's position here suggests fans view it more as a successful side project than a core part of his artistic canon.

It’s undeniably fun and captures a specific cultural moment, but it's often seen as less personal than the albums that surround it in his discography.

14. Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999)

Released in 1999, this album saw Prince (then using the Love Symbol) making a concerted effort to reconnect with the pop mainstream.

The album features a number of high-profile guest appearances, including Gwen Stefani, Eve, and Sheryl Crow. Prince also included a cover of Crow's hit "Everyday Is a Winding Road."

It was his first major-label release in three years and became his most successful album in North America since 1996, eventually being certified Gold.

Key tracks:

The Greatest Romance Ever Sold
Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic

This album's fan reception is often tied to its overt commercial ambitions. While it produced some excellent pop and R&B moments, some listeners felt the numerous guest spots diluted Prince's singular vision.

It's appreciated for what it is—a polished, star-studded affair—but doesn't always connect as deeply as his more personal works.

15. Chaos and Disorder (1996)

Chaos and Disorder was Prince's eighteenth studio album, released in 1996 to fulfill his contractual obligations with Warner Bros. Records.

Prince refused to promote the album, and the liner notes stated it was "originally intended 4 private use only." It marked a return to a raw, guitar-driven rock sound.

Despite the lack of promotion, the single "Dinner with Delores" became a Top 40 hit in the UK. The album is often praised for its tight, grunge-oriented rock-funk collection.

Key tracks:

Dinner with Delores
The Same December

The context of this album's release is everything. Fans often view Chaos and Disorder as a defiant, guitar-shredding farewell to his Warner Bros. contract.

While seen as a "throwaway" by some at the time, its raw energy and blistering guitar work have earned it a cult following among those who love Prince's rock side.

16. Emancipation (1996)

Emancipation was a monumental triple album released in 1996, marking Prince's freedom from his long and contentious contract with Warner Bros. Records.

The album is formatted with three discs, each containing 12 songs and running exactly 60 minutes. It was his first album to include cover songs by other artists.

It featured his versions of "Betcha by Golly Wow!," "I Can't Make You Love Me," and "One of Us." The album sold over 500,000 copies and was certified double platinum.

Key tracks:

Betcha By Golly Wow!
Emancipation

The sheer scale of Emancipation makes it a challenging but rewarding listen for fans. It's a sprawling statement of artistic freedom, filled with an outpouring of creativity.

Its lower ranking may reflect its density; it's an album that demands significant time and attention, making it more of a deep cut for dedicated listeners than a casual favorite.

17. Around the World in a Day (1985)

Following the massive success of Purple Rain, Prince took a sharp left turn with 1985's Around the World in a Day.

The album saw Prince and The Revolution experimenting heavily with psychedelic styles, opulent textures, and unconventional instruments. Its sound and artwork drew many comparisons to The Beatles' Sgt. Pepper.

Released with minimal publicity at Prince's request, the album still hit number one and produced two top-10 singles, "Raspberry Beret" and "Pop Life."

Key tracks:

Raspberry Beret
Pop Life

This album is often debated among fans. Some were initially perplexed by its sudden psychedelic shift after the rock anthems of Purple Rain.

However, many have come to admire its bold artistic risk-taking. Its ranking reflects this divide—a creatively brilliant album that was perhaps too much of a departure for some at the time.

18. Crystal Ball (1998)

Originally conceived as a 3-LP album in 1986, the Crystal Ball project was shelved by Warner Bros., with many of its tracks repurposed for Sign o' the Times.

In 1998, Prince revived the concept as a 3-CD box set of previously unreleased material, sold directly to fans. This set included the acoustic album The Truth.

The collection spans different eras of his recording history, offering a treasure trove of outtakes and alternate versions for dedicated listeners.

Key tracks:

Love Sign
Crucial

As a compilation of vault material, Crystal Ball is the definition of a "for the fans" release. Its ranking reflects its status as a deep dive rather than a cohesive studio statement.

Listeners who love exploring Prince's creative process and unreleased gems hold this collection in very high esteem.

19. Musicology (2004)

Prince's twenty-eighth studio album, Musicology, marked a major commercial comeback in 2004. It was his first album on a major label in five years.

The album was famously given away to concertgoers on his wildly successful Musicology Tour, a strategy that helped it achieve double-platinum status.

The R&B-themed record was well-received, earning Prince two Grammy Awards, including Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for the title track.

Key tracks:

Musicology
Call My Name

Musicology is remembered as a successful and celebratory return to form. Fans embraced its back-to-basics funk and soul.

While not as experimental as his 80s peak, its solid songwriting and flawless musicianship were a welcome reminder of his enduring power.

20. [Love Symbol] (1992)

Prince's fourteenth studio album is officially untitled, represented only by the unpronounceable "Love Symbol" he would soon adopt as his name.

Released in 1992, it was the second album to feature his backing band, The New Power Generation. The record was conceived as a "fantasy rock soap opera" with a loose narrative.

It blends R&B, funk, pop, and soul, producing the hit singles "Sexy MF," "My Name Is Prince," and the US top-ten hit "7."

Key tracks:

7
Sexy M.F.

This album is a fan favorite from the New Power Generation era, showcasing a tight band with a heavy funk and hip-hop influence.

The ambitious "rock soap opera" concept and the iconic singles make it a memorable and important chapter right before Prince's public battle with his record label.

21. Music from Graffiti Bridge (1990)

The soundtrack to the 1990 film of the same name, Graffiti Bridge was Prince's twelfth studio album. While the film was not a success, the album fared much better.

It reached number 6 in the US and topped the charts in the UK. The album featured performances by a handful of other artists, including Tevin Campbell, Mavis Staples, and The Time.

Nearly every song was written by Prince, including the hit single "Thieves in the Temple." It also served as the introduction to his new band, The New Power Generation.

Key tracks:

Thieves in the Temple
Round and Round

Fans often consider the Graffiti Bridge album to be far superior to its accompanying film. It's a diverse collection of tracks that brings together many of Prince's funk and soul influences.

The collaborations with legends like Mavis Staples and the powerhouse vocals of a young Tevin Campbell add a special dimension to the project.

22. 3121 (2006)

Released in 2006, 3121 continued the commercial resurgence Prince enjoyed with Musicology. The album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, a first for Prince.

The title is a reference to the address of a house he was renting in Los Angeles at the time, which became a hub for legendary parties and private performances.

The album delivered a tight collection of funk, R&B, and pop, featuring the singles "Te Amo Corazón" and "Black Sweat."

Key tracks:

Black Sweat
Te Amo Corazón

3121 is fondly remembered by fans as a confident, fun, and immaculately produced album from his later career.

It captured the vibrant energy of his famous house parties, delivering a set of songs that were both radio-friendly and deeply funky.

23. ART OFFICIAL AGE (2014)

ART OFFICIAL AGE was released in 2014 under a renewed partnership with Warner Bros. Records, marking a significant reunion after their public split in the 1990s.

The album is a slick, electro-funk sci-fi concept album. Interludes depict Prince waking from suspended animation 45 years in the future.

It was released simultaneously with PLECTRUMELECTRUM, his album with the band 3rdeyegirl. ART OFFICIAL AGE debuted at number five on the Billboard 200.

Key tracks:

BREAKFAST CAN WAIT
FUNKNROLL

This album was seen as a creative and modern return for Prince, blending contemporary R&B sounds with his classic funk sensibilities.

Fans appreciated the fresh production and the playful, futuristic concept, viewing it as one of his strongest and most focused projects of the 2010s.

24. Planet Earth (2007)

Prince's thirty-second studio album had a unique release strategy in 2007. In the UK, it was distributed as a free covermount with The Mail on Sunday newspaper.

The album features contributions from former Revolution members Wendy & Lisa, as well as Sheila E. It debuted at number three on the US Billboard 200.

The track "Future Baby Mama" earned Prince a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, his last Grammy win.

Key tracks:

Chelsea Rodgers
Guitar

Fan reception for Planet Earth is often tied to its innovative but controversial release model. Musically, it's a solid, mainstream-friendly pop-rock album.

It’s viewed as a strong collection of songs, though perhaps not as groundbreaking as his most celebrated works.

25. HITNRUN Phase Two (2015)

This was the thirty-ninth studio album by Prince and the final one released during his lifetime. It was initially released as a Tidal exclusive in December 2015.

A continuation of Hit n Run Phase One, this album featured a more organic, horn-heavy sound. It included the song "Baltimore," written in memory of Freddie Gray.

The album compiled several tracks previously released as one-off singles, presenting them in a cohesive, funk-filled package with a large brass section.

Key tracks:

Stare
Look At Me, Look At U

As his final album, HITNRUN Phase Two holds a poignant place for fans. It's appreciated as a warm, soulful, and funky record that feels like a classic Prince jam session.

The rich horn arrangements and relaxed vibe are often highlighted as a fitting, though unintended, final statement from a master of the craft.

26. One Nite Alone... (2002)

Prince's twenty-fifth studio album, One Nite Alone..., was released in 2002 exclusively to members of his NPG Music Club.

The album is an intimate collection of songs featuring Prince singing and accompanying himself on piano, with only occasional use of other instruments.

It includes a sparse, heartfelt cover of Joni Mitchell's "A Case of You," retitled "A Case of U." The album was never sold in stores, making original copies quite rare.

Key tracks:

A Case of U
One Nite Alone...

This album is a treasured piece for die-hard fans. Its sparse, intimate nature provides a rare glimpse of Prince at his most vulnerable.

The focus on just his voice and piano puts his sheer musicianship and emotional depth on full display, making it a powerful and unique listening experience.

27. Welcome 2 America (2021)

Recorded in 2010 but shelved for over a decade, Welcome 2 America was posthumously released in 2021. It is the first full, previously unreleased studio album to emerge from his vault.

The album was recorded with a new trio featuring bassist Tal Wilkenfeld and drummer Chris Coleman. It features politically charged lyrics, tackling themes of racism, disinformation, and exploitation.

Prince's decision to vault the album remains a mystery, though some speculate it was because the full recording lineup could not commit to a tour.

Key tracks:

Welcome 2 America
Born 2 Die

As a major vault release, this album was eagerly anticipated by fans. It's valued for its prescient social commentary and tight, raw, live-in-the-studio feel.

It offers a fascinating look at a complete, focused project that Prince created and then decided to put away, showcasing his incredible creative output.

28. The Vault - Old Friends 4 Sale (1999)

This 1999 release was another album delivered to Warner Bros. to fulfill Prince's contractual obligations.

The album is a collection of unreleased tracks recorded between 1985 and 1996, featuring a heavily jazz-influenced and orchestral sound.

Some fans noted that several tracks were reworked from their original bootlegged versions. It was released with little promotion and was the last album issued by Warner Bros. from his 1992 contract.

Key tracks:

When the Lights Go Down
It's About That Walk

This collection is often seen by fans as a contractual obligation release, a clearinghouse of older, jazz-inflected tracks.

While it contains some beautiful moments, its identity as a compilation of vault leftovers, rather than a focused project, places it lower in the overall fan hierarchy.

29. The Rainbow Children (2001)

The Rainbow Children, released in 2001, is a complex concept album that delves deep into themes of spirituality, sexuality, racism, and love.

The narrative alludes to Prince's recent conversion to the Jehovah's Witness faith, using a fictitious story of a social movement towards a utopian society.

Musically, the album has a heavy jazz influence, more so than any of his previous efforts. It was met with mixed reactions, with some fans embracing its musical evolution and others finding the themes challenging.

Key tracks:

1+1+1 is 3
Muse 2 the Pharaoh

This is arguably one of Prince's most divisive albums among his fanbase. The dense, spiritual subject matter and heavy jazz direction were a departure for many.

However, it has a dedicated following who consider it a misunderstood masterpiece, praising its incredible musicianship and bold, uncompromising vision.

30. LOtUSFLOW3R (2009)

LOtUSFLOW3R was released in 2009 as part of a three-album set sold exclusively at Target stores in the US.

This disc was a guitar-heavy rock album, showcasing Prince's formidable skills as a lead guitarist. It was a stark contrast to the electro-funk of its companion album, MPLSoUND.

The set debuted at number two on the Billboard 200, continuing a streak of successful late-career releases for Prince.

Key tracks:

Crimson and Clover
Colonized Mind

Fans who love Prince the rock god gravitate toward LOtUSFLOW3R. It's a loud, guitar-centric record that puts his instrumental prowess front and center.

Its place in the ranking reflects its more niche appeal compared to his funk and pop material, but it's a must-hear for anyone who appreciates his six-string heroics.

31. PLECTRUMELECTRUM (2014)

Prince's thirty-sixth studio album was a full-band effort featuring his rock-oriented backing group, 3rdeyegirl.

Released in 2014, PLECTRUMELECTRUM is a tight, no-nonsense rock and funk album. It captures the energy of Prince working with a lean, powerful combo.

It was released on the same day as his more solo-centric album, ART OFFICIAL AGE, showcasing his incredible artistic duality even late in his career.

Key tracks:

ANOTHERLOVE
WOW

This album is all about the sound of a live band firing on all cylinders. Fans appreciate the raw, powerful energy and the clear chemistry between Prince and 3rdeyegirl.

It's a high-octane rock record that stands as a testament to his continued love for live performance and collaboration.

32. 20Ten (2010)

Following his innovative release strategy for Planet Earth, Prince's 2010 album 20Ten was also given away as a free covermount with newspapers and magazines in Europe.

He described the album as a "personal diary of the year," featuring musical elements of funk, pop, rock, and soul. It was never made available for digital download or in retail stores.

Prince famously stated this distribution method was "the best way to go... no charts, no internet piracy and no stress."

Key tracks:

Future Soul Song
Sticky Like Glue

Because of its limited, physical-only release, 20Ten remains one of Prince's harder-to-find albums. Fan opinion is often divided, with some finding it a fun, retro-sounding collection of funk jams.

Others consider it a more lightweight effort compared to his other work from the same period. Its rarity adds to its mystique.

33. MPLSoUND (2009)

Released as part of the 3-disc Lotusflow3r set, MPLSoUND was Prince's thirty-fourth studio album.

This album was a solo effort that leaned heavily into electro-funk and pop, reminiscent of his early 80s work but with a modern digital sheen.

It served as a stylistic counterpoint to the rock-heavy LOtUSFLOW3R disc, showcasing the incredible range he still possessed decades into his career.

Key tracks:

U're Gonna C Me
Dance 4 Me

Fans of Prince's classic Minneapolis sound often enjoy the throwback vibes of MPLSoUND. It's a playful, synth-driven record that doesn't take itself too seriously.

While some find the production a bit too digital compared to his analog classics, many appreciate it as a fun, energetic nod to his roots.

34. HITNRUN Phase One (2015)

Prince's thirty-eighth studio album was released in 2015, exclusively on the Tidal streaming service.

The album was a collaboration with producer Joshua Welton and embraced a contemporary, electronic, and trap-influenced sound.

It was a starkly modern-sounding record for Prince, which received mixed reviews from critics and fans who were divided on his exploration of current pop trends.

Key tracks:

1000 X'S & O'S
FALLINLOVE2NITE

This album represents one of Prince's most direct engagements with modern pop and electronic music, which proved divisive for his fanbase.

Some fans applauded his willingness to experiment with new sounds, while others felt the trendy production overshadowed his classic songwriting style.

35. The Chocolate Invasion (2004)

This was Prince's twenty-ninth studio album, released in 2004 as a download-only collection through his NPG Music Club website.

The tracks were largely compiled from material made available on the website in 2001. The album's sound is a mix of hard funk, R&B, and rock.

It features the duet "U Make My Sun Shine" with Angie Stone. Though never officially released on CD, it was later made available on streaming services.

Key tracks:

U Make My Sun Shine (feat. Angie Stone)
When Eye Lay My Hands On U

As a compilation of tracks from his online music club, The Chocolate Invasion is another release primarily for the dedicated fan. It's a snapshot of his internet-era output.

Listeners who were active members of the NPG Music Club often have a nostalgic fondness for these songs, which represent a period of direct-to-fan creativity.

36. Xpectation (2003)

Released on New Year's Day in 2003, Xpectation was a surprise instrumental album for members of the NPG Music Club.

It was the first instrumental album released under Prince's own name and features a jazz-fusion sound. The record was created improvisationally in the studio.

The band features acclaimed musicians like saxophonist Candy Dulfer, bassist Rhonda Smith, and drummer John Blackwell.

Key tracks:

Xotica
Xpectation

This album is a pure, improvisational jazz-funk session. Its appeal is largely to fans who appreciate Prince's musicianship and his more experimental, instrumental work.

Its lower ranking reflects its niche genre focus, but for those who love his jazz explorations, Xpectation is a fascinating and fluid listen.

37. The Slaughterhouse (Trax from the NPG Music Club Volume 2) (2004)

Prince's thirtieth studio album was another collection of tracks released via MP3 on his NPG Music Club website in 2004.

The title comes from the first line of the opening track, "Silicon." The songs were mostly material previously available online in 2001.

The collection includes a mix of hard-edged funk and hip-hop influenced tracks, with some credited to The New Power Generation.

Key tracks:

S&M Groove
Northside

Much like its companion volume, The Chocolate Invasion, this album is a time capsule of Prince's online creative output from the early 2000s.

It's a collection that caters to completists and fans who followed his every move during the NPG Music Club era, offering a grittier, funkier selection of tracks.

38. N.E.W.S (2003)

Released in 2003, N·E·W·S is Prince's second instrumental album under his own name. It consists of four 14-minute tracks, each named after a cardinal direction.

The album was recorded improvisationally at Paisley Park over a single day. It features a blend of New Age, jazz-funk, and jazz-fusion styles.

It became Prince's lowest-selling album but garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Instrumental Album.

Key tracks:

North
West

This is one of Prince's most experimental and challenging releases. The long, atmospheric instrumental pieces are a far cry from his radio hits.

Its position on this list reflects its highly specialized nature. N·E·W·S is for the most adventurous listeners, those interested in hearing Prince explore musical texture and mood over conventional song structures.

Picked your top Prince classic? Check out Prince's discography on their Roll The Record Artist hub.

Prince albums: A look at popularity data

While fan sentiment paints a rich picture, current popularity data can offer another interesting angle.

This looks at an artist's discography through a different lens.

Below is a ranking of Prince's albums based on their popularity scores from available data. This reflects which releases are currently seeing significant engagement.

Popularity Rank	Album Title	Release Year
1	Purple Rain	1984
2	Parade - Music from the Motion Picture Under the Cherry Moon	1986
3	Around the World in a Day	1985
4	Prince	1979
5	The Gold Experience	1995
6	Sign "O" the Times	1987
7	Batman	1989
8	For You	1978
9	Musicology	2004
10	[Love Symbol]	1992
11	Controversy	1981
12	Emancipation	1996
13	Music from Graffiti Bridge	1990
14	Dirty Mind	1980
15	Lovesexy	1988
16	Crystal Ball	1998
17	3121	2006
18	ART OFFICIAL AGE	2014
19	Planet Earth	2007
20	HITNRUN Phase Two	2015
21	Diamonds and Pearls (2023 Remaster)	1991
22	1999	1982
23	One Nite Alone... (Solo Piano and Voice by Prince)	2002
24	Welcome 2 America	2021
25	The Vault - Old Friends 4 Sale	1999
26	The Rainbow Children	2001
27	LOtUSFLOW3R	2009
28	Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic	1999
29	Come	1994
30	The Truth	1998
31	Chaos and Disorder	1996
32	PLECTRUMELECTRUM	2014
33	20Ten	2010
34	MPLSoUND	2009
35	HITNRUN Phase One	2015
36	The Chocolate Invasion (Trax From The NPG Music Club Volume One)	2004
37	Xpectation	2003
38	The Slaughterhouse (Trax from the NPG Music Club Volume 2)	2004
39	N.E.W.S	2003

Quick FAQs about Prince's albums

Q: How many albums did Prince release in his lifetime?

A: Prince was an incredibly prolific musician. He released 39 studio albums during his life, with a vast vault of unreleased material remaining.

Q: What is the "Minneapolis sound" that Prince pioneered?

A: The Minneapolis sound, pioneered by Prince, is a hybrid musical style. It incorporates a wide variety of genres, including funk, R&B, rock, new wave, and synth-pop, often blending synthesizers with traditional instruments.

So there you have it. We've taken a journey through Prince's albums ranked from two different viewpoints.

We've explored the passionate choices of the fans and the current trends shown by popularity data. The results are often very different, which shows how personal music can be.

Ultimately, the "best" Prince album is the one that connects with you. It's about the memories and feelings his music creates in your own life.

What does your personal ranking of Prince's albums look like?