Prince

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About Controversy

"Controversy" is a song by American musician Prince, the lead single and title track to his 1981 album. The song addresses speculation about Prince at the time such as his sexuality, gender, religion, and racial background, and how he could not understand the curiosity surrounding him.

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I just can't believe all the things people sayControversyAm I black or white, am I straight or gay?ControversyDo I believe in god, do I believe in me? ControversyControversy ControversyI can't understand human curiosityControversyWas it good for you, was I what you wanted me to be? ControversyDo you get high, does your daddy cry? ControversyControversy ControversyDo I believe in god, do I believe in me? Some people want to die so they can be freeI said life is just a game, we're all just the same, do you want to play? Yeah, oh yeahControversyControversy ControversyControversyControversyControversyOur father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy nameThy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heavenGive us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespassesAs we forgive those who trespass against usLead us not into temptation but deliver us from evilFor thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and everControversy ControversyControversy ControversyLove him, love him babyControversy Controversy ControversyOh yeah, yeah, controversy Controversy, oh yeahControversyListenPeople call me rude, I wish we all were nudeI wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rulesPeople call me rude, I wish we all were nudeI wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rulesPeople call me rude, I wish we all were nudeI wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rulesPeople call me rude, I wish we all were nudeI wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rulesAh, yee hooHe he, yeah, controversyOh yeah, controversyDo I believe in god, do I believe in me? Let me tell yaSome people want to die so they can be freeI said life is just a game, we're all just the sameDon't ya want to play? Ooh, oohOoh, controversyOoh, ooh Ooh, controversy Ooh, oohOoh, controversyOoh oohControversy

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Prince

Prince Rogers Nelson (born June 7, 1958 - found dead in his home April 21, 2016. He died of an accidental overdose of the drug fentanyl), was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Known by his mononym Prince, he was an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and actor. He produced ten platinum albums and thirty Top 40 singles during his career. He wrote several hundred songs plus produced and recorded his own music for his own music label. Prince had a wide vocal range and was known for his flamboyant stage presence and costumes. His releases sold over 100 million copies worldwide. He won seven Grammy Awards, a Golden Globe, and an Academy Award. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, the first year he was eligible. Ro… more »

24 fans

Genre »

Electronic

Style »

Progressive Trance, RnB/Swing, Synth-pop

Sheet Music PDF Playlist

Written by: Prince Rogers Nelson

Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind

10 facts about this song

Historical Context

"Controversy" was a song born out of Prince's response to his critics and fans who couldn't put him into a box or category. Through this song, he directly addresses his critics and those who tried to dissect his private life.

Discography Facts

"Controversy" is the lead single and title track to Prince's fourth studio album released in 1981. - Despite its provocative theme, the song reached No. 3 on the R&B chart and No. 70 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Songcraft

In the song Prince explores the recurring themes of sexuality, religion and media fascination, all entwined in a funky, synth-driven sound. - The song features an Linn LM-1 drum machine, an instrument that was prominent in many of Prince's songs.

Pop Culture Influence

"Controversy" has been regarded as a defining song for Prince, and it reflects his challenging of societal norms and preconceptions. - Lyrically, the song is known for its political and social undertones covering topics of race, sexuality, and personal freedom.

Performances

"Controversy" was a staple in Prince's concerts all the way until his last tour, where fans often participated during the chant-like bridge of the song. - The song was famously performed live on Saturday Night Live in 1981.

Musical Features

It's notable for its repetitious bass line and synth part, as well as spoken-word chants of the Lord's Prayer in the extended length album version.

Reception

"Controversy" was met critically with praise for its ripe social commentary and originality. It further reinforced Prince's image as a daring and unconventional artist.

Legacy

Years after its release, "Controversy" remains an iconic track in Prince's discography, often covered by other artists including British rock band Franz Ferdinand and Dutch singer and actress Mathilde Santing.

Sound Recording

The track was recorded in Prince's home studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota, which would later become Paisley Park Studios.

Music Video

The music video for "Controversy" was directed by Bruce Gowers, and features scenes of Prince performing the song with his band. Reflecting the song's themes, the video also features provocative imagery and satirical elements.

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