Friends, some of you like my stories, and here is a video I posted about Alanis Morrissette. Kind of a cool little story as we grew up in the same neighbourhood and are the same age: ruclips.net/video/y7fgpFJtHOM/видео.html
Prince lived music to the fullest and literally dedicated his life to it. Prince did soundcheck for hours, did the gig for another 3 hours, and then would go to clubs and play after shows . This was a normal touring day. And Prince was such a musician that if you ask a lot of his die hard fans, who collect bootlegs, they'll tell you Prince's best solos and musician work is in his soundchecks. The songs were about the songs, the shows were about the shows, but on the soundchecks and rehearsals he could go off, and you'll find 10 minute guitar solos, piano jams, funk jams where they are doing the same 16 bar loop for 20 minutes etc.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar ruclips.net/video/AG6UamG6gRg/видео.html The first 20 minutes is a soundcheck, then interview for 20 mins (equally fascinating). And your favourite drummer is there doing the business... 😉 His soundchecks from this era show how he masterfully set up the sound for the audience, the visuals for the crowd, and exercised a band of wonderful musicians. It's always an education on diligence to watch these. The best soundchecks, for me, are the mid-late 80s. A young guy just playing for the love of playing. Wailing on guitar or tinkling the ivories for hours to either stumble on inspiration or to chisel his band down to their best abilities. Sadly the 80s soundchecks don't tend to have video, and if they do they're rarely in the public domain.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar @verdean613 @The Solitary Adventurer Agree with all the posts in this thread. While not a performance video, I find the 1988 rehearsal rendition of "Feel U Up" astounding on every level. Even if you don't feature it as a reaction, it's worth a listen on your own time: ruclips.net/video/cwBgp_aj2_8/видео.html
In rehearsals like you say, is where his talents really show as if they didn't in his concerts. I love prince in his most natural free to do whatever rehearsals. His experimenting with different arrangements and solos is jaw dropping. Simply the best. I think even zappa was annoyed by his level of musicianship 💜💜
Prince's father was a pianist and his mother a singer. He also was around and learned from some damn good musicians in Minneapolis. He was already a proficient musician as a young teen. He is a TRUE GENIUS.
I wonder how much genetics plays a role? I've met some people who just can't keep a beat or sing in tune if their life depended on it. My grandmother, a lifelong pianist, said it was always apparent which kids had the most musical promise just by listening to them keep rhythm.
Prince was absolutely amazing! If memory serves me correctly piano was his 1st instrument. His father was a jazz pianist and had a piano in the home. I always loved his piano playing. So glad you reacted to this sound check of Summertime. His life was music and musicians could barely keep up with him. They always said working with Prince was extremely hard but it was a musical education they will never forget. They called it going to Paisley University (referring to Paisley Park), lol. I love your Prince reactions!!!! You are amazed every time but that's just Prince.
You’re not alone in feeling “like an ass”. SO many folks, unfortunately, discovered Prince’s huge talents only after he passed ….which I think is so sad. Now that I have studied his body of work, I too, am in total amazement at his incredible talent. The word talent even seems too weak for him. Anyway, I just wanted u to know that so many of us out here also woke up in April 2016. I could’ve gone to many Prince concerts (if I had only KNOWN) and never went to one and now I feel like I am his biggest fan. Unbelievable gifts he had. Maybe it had to do with his marketing of himself. Maybe? If anything, marketing was the one place where he was lacking. Seems like you could study him for years and still not be close to finishing.
His piano playing is simply magnificent. It was his first instrument and I put it at second to his guitar playing. If you want to see more of him playing I suggest you check out his piano medley from the Lovesexy tour in 1988. It shows off his talent even more than this clip. Love your reactions!
@Tony I guess, to the untrained ear, if he did miss a few notes, I wouldn't be able to hear it. I've watched that 9 minute piano medley a lot of times and I haven't heard anything amiss, but that's just me. Not saying he didn't miss, but I just can't hear it. It is one of the best quality piano videos we have of playing him though, so.
You are not alone with just not knowing. I have been a huge fan all of my life and have tried to explain to people what they are missing, but all they picture is him on his motorcycle singing when doves cry. There is so much more. And all it takes is sitting down and taking the time to listen to discover the wonder that is Prince. Welcome to the club☔️💜🤷♀️
I know....right, I too, have been telling people, all of my purple life since 1978 of how truly gifted his " Royal Badness " was and still is 2 this day......I have been down with Prince since the very beginning and I am still amazed at the brilliance of Prince Rogers Nelson, so blessed to have seen him live...doing the damn thing as only he could !!!!!
Prince WAS music. Listen to his jazz albums from NEWS, madhouse , esp “the rainbow children”. Was so lucky to see him 30 times and meet him in 2004 He WAS music!
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Amazing it was at 3:00am and he was still “up” after the amazing show he just performed here in San Diego When I shook his hand, I could feel every muscle in his fingers Truly an amazing moment
I've seen him live 4 times. He played piano at 3 of the 4 times. You should listen to Condition Of The Heart off of Around The World In A Day. Some great piano work on that one.
DO NOT feel like an ass. You were meant to be here to give us TOTALLY unbiased views on Prince’s greatness. He took 2 piano lessons in school. Prince IS music.
When Prince died, a local Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St. Paul) tv station...WCCO tv...had interviewed producer/artist Jimmy Jam on his history with Prince in Minneapolis...from being a competitor group to Jimmy joining The Time group courtesy of Prince. Jimmy mentioned that he first knew Prince...when they were younger...via piano lessons. He mentioned that Prince stopped taking lessons...and that Prince could play circles around him on the piano! Both artists had very well-known pianist dads! (Jimmy's dad is Cornbread Harris.) The news station reported that Prince's stepdad would punish Prince by making him go to his room. In return, Prince would play on his dad's piano...just to make his stepdad mad...who did not like Prince playing that specific piano. In one of the Prince concerts I attended...before he played "Why Don't You Call Me Anymore" on piano...he declared "This is dedicated to Quincy Jones, who says I can't play piano." The nerve of Quincy to say that!!!
Piano was his first instrument at 6 I think. Everything else followed and by high school he was a one man band. Prince blew my mind and showed me It’s one thing to be a multi-instrumentalist but it’s another thing to be that proficient at everything. Highly recommend watching the piano medley from the Lovesexy tour. ruclips.net/video/gWnSs8an3b4/видео.html I love him on guitar, but I could listen to hours of him playing piano.
Prince suffered from Savant Syndrome......i think he's suffered from this syndrome & he was a pure genius ....all the things he 's practised in music & other domains were learnt very very quickly....he got perfect pitch & so much things ...his aptitude to learn things at a young age were well documented ...he saw one thing one time & this thing was in his mind 4 ever ( studio engineer habilities, experimenting all the times ...learning fast & working very hard) Prince is the MOzart/Bach of our times ...Really !
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Are you even aware that his last tour, the one he was on when he passed was a just him at the piano...? The whole 90-120 min sets were him alone...he played 2x a night and I actually saw him at his show 3 weeks before it all ended...
I think the eventual Netflix documentary is going to be eye opening to many. I hope it covers the fact, his incredible talent was paralleled only by his work ethic
I am in awe of musicians in general. As someone who never progressed beyond the recorder, I salute all of you. And don't feel bad. Even as a person who loved Prince back in the 70s, 80s, 90s and early 2000s, I still slept on a lot of his music.
Rumors are that Prince was as great a Piano man as he was a Godly Guitar player!!! Love the Purplelish tone of your setup that matches perfectly with your Prince reactions!!
Prince was the Mozart of the XXI Century ... Learn to play piaono at 6 and guitar at 12 years old I think. One of the first tv appearences on his album debut "For you" in 1978 one of the questions : How many intruments do you play? Prince answer after hesitations and smiles on hi face .... A Lot. The little interview is on youtube.
I think he was on a different level than Mozart… Mozart wasn’t proficient on multiple instruments either. I think that Prince s intelligence was never comprehended. Prince was a polymath. Prince was great at so many things …from table tennis, basketball, billiards etc…
@George how do you know for sure that Beethoven Bach and Mozart actually did all of that work? You weren’t back then, so how did you know for sure. We can see with Prince . I’ve seen it in person with Prince.
Prince was music It thrilled him and also cost him,When u live and breathe it women never understood him as he was always in a studio creating and in his creating u hone ur craft.Hes a great drummer too,As for u feeling like an ass,You have matured and ur tastes and tolerances change and a better understanding That comes with age my brother.Im so glad you are on this journey.The mighty Victor wooten on bass whom is a master of his craft sites prince as one of his influences.Keep on keeping on you are doing a stellar job and I'm enjoying your reviews the more u do Bravo sir Peace and be wild
I've been blessed to be aware of PRINCE GENIUS REFLECTED in this particular 📹 video since his "FOR YOU" recording on my 8TRACK player. I researched his musicality throughout my teenage years into my adult life.
Just recently discovered your channel. Thanks so much for these Prince reaction videos. I can't even describe how dedicated I was to Prince's Music. His live stuff, will never forget. Took my dad to his concert way back, never seen my dad dance like that. There was a period in my life that all I listened to was Prince. Carrying my walkman across campus with Prince playing in my ears. AND, my first born son is named Prince. And my daughter is named Anastasia (from Prince's Anna Stesia). But when I heard his death. I stopped. I couldn't do it. I keep track of the Prince Estate now. See their re-issues and new music releases. I mostly pass it by now. But seeing about a some of your Prince's Reaction videos. I pulled out my vinyl, got a record player... and appreciating again what he was able to accomplish. I am not a musician, can't play any instrument... but I do realize what an amazing talent that man is. But mostly, I loved how his music made me feel.
You are so correct, he was a prodigy but also had a clear vision and worked at it all the time. Some people are genetically able to function on little sleep, he was one of those types that only needed a few hours. Prince was mostly self-taught, piano was actually his first instrument age 7. Prince is the great American success story, I hope people start to see him in this light. BTW, he was rumored to be a killer basketball player and could have been a contender on a national level if he wasn't so short. He was a really complicated personality.
I definitely cannot function on no sleep, part of why I retired from gigging all the time, getting home at 7 or 8am in the morning starts to catch up with you.... I still wonder as he grew up in Minnesota, did he play hockey?
He was awesome!!! My introduction to his music was 1978. I was listening to his first album on a cassette tape , with headphones, while mowing the lawn as a kid. I've been a fan ever since. My first Prince concert was in 1981. I eventually went to eight of his concerts over the years. The group The Time he created, produced, wrote their songs/music. Some of those solos for every instrument was off the charts. I hope you do a reaction to one or both of the first two The Time albums, again to showcase his funky side. Also, if you're not familiar, there's a jazz song he did that is super amazing...When The Lights Go Down. Sorry, almost forgot Live4Love ... multiple awesome guitar solos...trust me.
You are not alone in not realising just how talented Prince was until it was too late. I was fortunate to have seen home perform many many times from 1990 through to his Last UK tour. I knew just how great he was. Being front row many times was always an awesome experience. So many people didn't know. Just didn't know. 😢
I sadly am one of them, but I've been learning, we've been doing a deep dive on the purple yoda for over a year and a half now, let me know what you think! :)
Piano was one of his first instruments, beginning to teach himself at age 7. His father was a jazz pianist who played under the moniker Prince Rogers, which was the genesis of Prince's name. Prince programed his own synthesizers as well, which was uncommon in the early days. Rick James actually stole Prince's programmed synths after Prince toured with James as his opening act. According to Teena Marie (also on the same tour), James stole the synths and used them on his album Street Songs, then sent them back to Prince with a thank you card.
The guy played 27 instruments on his debut album. When he was 19. He also wrote all the songs, produced the entire record, and sang every vocal. I repeat, a 19 year old kid produced, played and sang all of “For You”. He also did it for the majority of his albums during his lifetime. The guy was an absolute force of nature. Also, don’t feel like an ass. He didn’t shout from the rooftops “I AM A MUSICAL GENIUS”. He just made music and put it out there, and people who really dove in found out all the rest.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar well, some of those included "hand claps" and "finga snaps", and different kinds of guitar, bass and synths. So realistically, maybe 20. But still very impressive for a teenager! And in his later years he said he could play around 30 instruments.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar yup 27. The guy could play everything. One of my fav lines from him (think it was some random interview he did as an online chat in the 90s) was someone asked him how many instruments he played and he said “can play anything. Only 27 good.” Like, oh, only 27? Yeah you freakin slacker, clean up your act 😂
Another cool prince reaction. I like the way u notice the little things a a musician, but also notice the perfection and work prince put in. We re close to the same age, and when u talk about what u missed in prince back then, I think we all did. The songs are great, but u really did nt know until u saw a live show or a television performance, or when the bootlegs started coming out. He always performed rhe song differently. He got that from james brown. He saw james, janes made him want to dance. He always felt, u can buy the record, and listen to that, i want to give u something different live. W the rehearsal s sonetines rhey might work on one part for a hour. That 1 part might only be 4 notes, but he s trying to make it perfect. Also having the band leran the show perfectly, then he can adlib, call an audible, play, dance , so something totally different, but if u know your part to perfection, even that wont throw u off. A couple of 1987 shows during a sax solo, he took eric leeds wallet and started going through it, just to mess w him or so whatever. Also when u watch him, he does cue the band w hand signals so they know when to switch gears. If u watch the mtv under the cherry moon contest, he performs, you'll see some of the signals he does. His performance starts at 27:27 this is it. ruclips.net/video/kQrZ4tXmJx4/видео.html also if u watch prince in snl 1980 doing party up, he cues the band. Thats not on you tube, but u can search on google. It is on facebook. Also you l l see hand signals on "housequake" from sign o the times movie, th at should be on you tube. Keep up the good work.
Prince liked to be challenged. That is partly why on his last tour it was just Prince, a piano, and a microphone. There are stories where certain audience members weren't feeling Prince's music and Prince actively tries to get them on board and does get them into it while in concert. Prince wanted the challenge.
His timing is absolutely insane. When Prince was young he wanted to move with the music so he danced more. Plus he had already played the instruments on the albums. When he got older, he was almost always behind his guitar.
Yeah, saw him live in the late eighties and beginning of the nineties when he was still doing splits and jumps and crawled on the floor half of his shows :-) An amazing performer with almost super natural abilities. When did he find time to learn all those moves? Actually he trained dancing while rehearsing the music with his band(s). There are videos of these cellar rehearsals on youtube. His body was like an instrument too, that he mastered. It's incredible, just incredible!
Great reaction. I have seen this video and I really enjoy it, like other clips from his sound checks. There is another good one from the Musicology tour in 2004. The sound checks are a good reminder of what a great band leader he was.
Treat us - ruclips.net/video/AG6UamG6gRg/видео.html Please react to the first 15 minutes of this video, showing the sound check before he is interviewed.
Enjoy the journey. From what I remember he started school piano at about 4yrs theiugh his father by his teens he was already accomplished at piano guitar bass drums. His first album played all instruments and could play about 30 I syrumsnts at concert level proficiency. So yes a true prodigy and literally genius
That was an awesome reaction! Actually brought tears to my eyes because I know how you feel. I was the same way with the band Jefferson Starship. I only knew the hits, but when I did a deep dive, I saw how much I really missed with that band. I think music flows through me (especially my ear) and "my mother said when I was 12 - whoever is singing the song, (the song was "International Lover") is special." She knew by the chord progression and the complexity yet also simple melody was from someone special. I remember replying, "Mom, that is Prince. The guy that dad said I can't play in the house" (though I did). She said, "I thought so. He has a unique sound - you can tell he knows songwriting." My mom's first instrument is piano (and she and my father made me play piano + 1 (another instrument - my choice on the second). I was never that great at piano yet I know music - if that makes sense. Some people don't have the chops but still know the art. Some consider piano as Prince's first instrument (depending on the listener). My mom thought he was an excellent piano player because he knew his chords yet she thinks guitar is his true gift (1st instrument). All that to say, I am so pumped you are digging your journey. You are right - there are so many talented people you have to cover. Yet, I can guarantee you - we will be so excited when you cover P. I would not be mad if you threw in Jefferson Starship (with Marty on lead). Also, can't wait for you react to "Crazy" - Prince in concert with CeeLo (hint, hint)!
Dr Taylor, I love your posts! That one you mentioned is in the cards for the near future :) About Jefferson Starship. There was a version of "White Rabbit" with the vocal track of Grace Slick isolated. I found at times she could be quite mesmerizing. The sad thing, and as you know I am honest, is that I totally relate Jefferson Starship to "We Built This City" which was also an overexposed hit which repels me away.... I would like to research this band more as well after your post..... Where should I start?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Thank you for your kind words. If Only You Believe - would be a great place to start with Jefferson Starship. Marty Ballin is awesome on vocals. Of course there is no heavy guitar yet from a total composition perspective, I think it's in your wheelhouse. Hope you enjoy. If it's not directly in your sweet spot, I would understand, but as a music lover, I think you may enjoy (you likely know the song already).
He is considered a virtuoso on guitar and piano. And self-taught to boot! One of his earliest exposures to instruments in school, his teacher said it was obvious right away to just leave him alone with the instruments. He was gifted from the jump. I think he is the greatest musician of our generation and one of the most unappreciated. But once you do a deep dive you discover the genius of Prince. I love seeing you learn more about him. He was also a great mentor to so many musicians.
His first instrument was the piano. Check out his piano medley from the LoveSexy concert. Actually that whole concert is the bomb. And you're nowhere near an a**. We love your honest take on his music💜💜
It would have been easy to miss artists back then because we didn't have the internet to find the music. I have always loved Prince (even though I am a non-musician). I feel like I am also finding great musicians (ex. Stevie Ray Vaughan) primarily because of the net.
The internet is a double edged sword that's for sure, but finding treasures with music is one of the great assets to the net :) Love your post Paul! :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar London 21 nights at the O2 in 2007. He played an after show nearly every night. I was lucky enough to go to one straight after the main show and enjoyed it even more. Being real close to the stage it was far more impressive to see him like that where you could really witness how awesome a guitarist he REALLY was.
His Father John L.Nelson Was A Jazz Pianist And Had The Prince Rogers Trio(Hence Where Prince’s Name Came From)And He Grew Up Around His Father And His Mother Was A Jazz Singer
Someone recently posted in the comments section a link to one of his father's songs, I want to do a reaction video to it soon. I'm really looking forward to hearing it.
Ooooosh go on.so glad you checked that out but didn't think you would do a reaction to piano lol awesome bro ,oh and he really didn't sleep much,he was constantly writing.theres a story out there about prince making a video,I mean full production stuff and requests a live camel for the set.it was middle of winter in Minneapolis at 4am lol.he didn't get the camel they talked him out of it.prince supposedly has more movies in his vault.he just don't stop.how did he find time for his ladies . 💜💜💜
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar He could have been,maybe caffeine pills.who knows what he was popping way back when. He sure had the drive without it. I thought he might have been autistic. Or at least on the spectrum somewhere. But there isn't any discussion about that anywhere that I can find. Maybe music was his focus. Always occupied. He would write lyrics about anything, even food. Another drive for him may have been the loss of his children. Was so sad. That's a whole other story. Extremely spiritual and religious headtrip he went through. I know that would drive me to the thing I know most, for him a studio on his own. He really didn't belong on earth. Always in his studio. To give you an idea on some of the things that motivated him was like once he did a gig for deaf people just so they could feel his groove. Is that pushing the boundaries of music into pure vibrations or what. So I think some people just have electrified brains and they probably don't even need the cafiene. Prince imo was one of them.💜💜
@@slyleggs4344 That concert you speak of was in Washington, DC where I was living at the time back in 84 or 85. I remember it well, he wanted to do this because he felt those students would not be able to see or hear him perform. It was at Gallaudet University which is a school for the Deaf & Blind. It was kept secret until it was over.
@@slyleggs4344 I’m sure it’s in the vault. Prince started recording everything early on or maybe he felt this was too personal to record. 🤷🏽♀️. Everyone in DC was talking about his free concert for the students there. He played extremely loud so the deaf students could feel the vibrations of his music.
Looks he can do it while running a one wheel bibycle in the middle of a Boulevard.... so much ease! Incredible musician. One of most well rounded musician of all time!! Period!! He put the 24k people Nashville arena to complete silence singing a capella with only a plain guitar on a revolving bench. Memorable!!
The one thing I love to see and hear on YT after his unfortunate passing from our world is all the great YT musicians, content creators and other people waking up to Prince. My introduction to Prince happened many moons ago by “coincidence”🤔 I’ve always considered it a privilege and one of the lucky ones who discovered Prince in the 70’s walking into a record store as an 8 year old child while the “in store DJ “ was playing his very first commercial release titled “soft and wet”. As a music lover, I never heard anything like it and bugged the hell out of my reluctant mother to buy me the “45 single”, It would be years later since I understood the title of that song🤣 but over the years seeing Prince grow was like watching the seed of an oak tree grow into a rock solid giant and I got to go out and be under the mighty branches and leaves. As an artist and musician myself, he taught me how to bend the rules of thinking about how music has no boundaries and is to be explored in many unique and various ways…I am eternally grateful to Prince. 🙏🏾💯❤️
No need to feel like an ass, buddy. Even at 49 years old, I still discover music for the first time that makes me think, “how the hell didn’t I know about this!” I’m loving your videos, you’ve a great perspective and insight, you make me laugh too, thanks, we need more laughter. Seriously, check out play that funky music live. He shreds on guitar and bass, it’s epic!
You know because of Prince I discovered so much music. He allowed me to open up my mind. Joni Mitchell is one of them. Recently, the great Terry Kath. I saw a interview where Producer Jimmy Jam from The Time said when Prince was younger in school, he played the solo from Make Me Smile by Terry Kath from Chicago. So I looked up the song and discovered this beast of a White man who sounded like Ray Charles and played like he was Jimi Hendrix's adopted Brother. Amazing to me that at 13 or 15 he (Prince) was playing guitar like that adjacent to piano. One of his friends from those early days said he paid attention to details when his Band would cover songs. Not just casually playing a song even back then before he landed a deal at 17yrs with Warner Bros. He was fastidious because his Dad was an amazing pianist. Prince was emulating his Father's playing. He said he wanted to get as good. He said his Dad used to taunt him with words like,You will never be as good as me. Obviously, Prince went on to be a famous musician and through his son is why the world even knows about his Dad. So Prince won that battle hands down. But,playing multiple instruments he exceeded his Dad's potential. Anyway thanks for sharing this sound check. I saw it before.
Great post Garfield! The great Terry Kath. He was phenomenal, probably my favourite guitarist from the 70's. I don't think the world really knows how amazing that man was on guitar, and his death was tragic.... I'm getting the idea that Prince's father wasn't the nicest guy, and it fueled Prince's drive with music....
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Well Prince's Dad was a man of belief and principles according to scources. He had to work take care of his family. The music was more of a side thing for his Father. I heard Prince used to play the organ in church with him. But, your right as a repository for his lack supporting his son. Because, Prince was kicked out of his Dad's house for bringing a girl home. So early on Prince had to look out for himself. So as you mentioned how did he time manage to practice those instruments. I believe it's the way he practice which was effective to understand the mechanisms of each instrument. His Father instilled practice. Also not to get distracted. He worked at it.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Prince said his Dad was a strict disciplinarian but said most Fathers were during that time. I'm sure when his Father said he would never play piano as good as him definitely fueled him, maybe that's what his Father wanted to do.
Prince rehearsals: sheila e said they would learn the whole show, then he d come in the next day and change the whole show, so it s learning a totally different show, but now they know its, so when he switches gears or givea a hand signals, they l l be ready. Sometimes he d give basic instructions in rehearsal, "chorus, then sax solo, chorus twice then matt, miko, Sheila solo in that order" that way they l l know what to expect it the show.
I remember back in the day, on some internet forums I frequent... there would be a thread about Prince from time to time. The non fans who are musicians or guitarists themselves would often say that Prince was good on guitar, but not great. That he wouldn't even crack the top 100 greatest guitarists. It was so frustrating at the time because Prince did not allow his music to be on youtube while he was still around. So I wasn't able to offer any proof, LOL.... So sad he's not around anymore... but on the plus side.. now we have proof :)
I do agree. I also heard or read awhile ago he was quite vicious with lawyers when anything is on RUclips, apparently Don Henley from the Eagles pays a STAFF to constantly scour RUclips for the same reasons...
Prince graduated from High School, went to Warner Bros Records in Burbank California and said,”I’ll sign with you as long as I play all the instruments on the songs I write and I produce it too.” That’s when record labels ruled the business too. He was a natural. A natural prodigy. Writer, instrumentalist, singer, frontman, dancer and legendary guitarist.
He sure was Bill, I missed the whole Prince thing back in the day and have only woken up to his genius in more recent times. The community here on my channel have really educated me about him, but it seems the more I learn the more I have to learn. Better late than never I guess ..... Great post :)
Great reaction. I remember seeing an interview with Prince where he said, he knew from a young age that any 9-5 wouldn't have interested him and he wouldn't have been good at it...he then put every bit of his energy into music. Many of his band members also said that, especially in the early years, they would jam into the early hours...by the next morning he would play them a recording of a finished track...so someone who got by with very little sleep!
I personally hated 9 to 5. There are many bad guitar teachers out there, I am so thankful that my first formative teacher was a great one and really showed me the way, I was able to make a good living teaching and performing and I've always been so grateful. On that note this channel is really starting to take off, and I'm very grateful to everyone who takes part in the community here, including yourself. I can't believe so many people (and this channel is still small) take the time out of their day to watch the videos and comment. It blows my mind!
Prince always said, "I have a God given gift". The man respected his talent and as you said managed his time. When people ask me who my favorite musician is I tell them Prince. They do not get they look at me strange. Glad you get it. Liz
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar I think people just listened to music they liked or grew up on. I've always been into R&B so I tend to listen to that music style but I'm still aware of other artist outside of that realm. Therefore I was into Prince early on, actually his first album then hearing he played every instrument on that album impressed us all during that time. He knew he was a musical genius but also recognized where his gifts came from. Early on he did push the envelope but he was young and just being gifted wasn't enough to get you noticed and talked about. People will tell you Prince from the beginning was on a musical mission, he couldn't stop making music even if he wanted to. He said songs and melodies came to him all the time and he had no choice but to record them, he just couldn't stop. Another problem WB had with him and he with them.
People who know, know. This guy wasn't just your ordinary musician. In his own genre - 'popular music' - he belongs in the same group of prodigiously gifted artists as Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, right through to the likes of Robert Johnson & Miles Davis. Genius comprises many different outfits but only certain individuals get to wear them in complete comfort. Prince was most definitely one of those.
If u like this…would love u to hear him at a sound check in 1998 Madrid…he is on piano, a guest guitar player referred to as ‘Jackie Brown’ plays…Prince jokes all through and ends with a superb piano end…skillz
Prince’s soundchecks were better than most performer’s concert. He learnt the piano first. His dad was a jazz pianist. Guitar second. Prince loved jazz. You should check out his jazz albums. The Rainbow Children, One Nite Alone Live, NEWS and C-Note
No offense to anyone but whom compare Prince with Michael Jackson know very little about music. Jacson was an interpret and Prince a musician, writer, producer, etc.Taking the home building analogy: Jackson was one of best carpenter in the business while Prince was also one of finest carpenter but also contractor, architect, engineer, electrician, plummer, landscaping etc. Can't compare both!!! Only can compare the carpenter aspect of the home building. Only that! BTY Kudos to you and your review and honest and humble approach to Prince's abilities discovering him with open mind and from a real musician perspective with no BS. Love it!
You are so so right about this question about time. It kills me that I have not been able to squeeze enough practice time on my piano. Prince on the other hand was so talented on every instrument that it was just ridiculous! Please check out Prince's surprise, live, guitar solo on a RUclips video playing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps". His performance on that sound was nothing short of remarkable! It is a shame that he died so young with so much left to give.
He learned to play piano literally at his father's feet. As a child he would sit at his father's feet listening to him play. The mythology around this (w/Prince it's hard to know what's truth and what's legend) is that his dad wouldn't let Prince touch the piano because Prince couldn't play well enough to use it. When his father moved out (I can't remember how old he was, but Prince was pretty young) - his dad left the piano and Prince almost literally locked himself in with the piano for six months and taught himself to play. He taught himself every instrument he played, and never learned to read music. I did read a story that he had a music teacher in high school who loaned him a music theory book, and when he brought it back to her he said he had already figured most of it out for himself, he just hadn't known what things were "called"... he was just born to be a musician.
I think also Rhonda he had a very unnatural drive to succeed and learn.. definitely a type A personality with possible OCD traits.... Great post as always :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar LOL - I believe you are correct; another part of the Prince mythos is that he didn’t sleep… he was up creating all night, every night.
You should watch Prince Electric Intercourse Live 1983. He’s playing piano. Also his America music video and It’s gonna be a Beautiful Night Live. In both he takes over for his drummer. The first is Bobby Z., the second Sheila E. There is also a 6 minute drum compilation that shows these two and more.
Cool. I’m glad to see that you respond to most comments even if it doesn’t happen right away. I look forward to your Prince reactions. I’ve watched a few of your others too, but Prince is my favorite. I recently read an article where Morris Hayes, one of his keyboardists in NPG and musical director was talking about working with Prince. He was with Prince for 20+ years from the early 90’s into the 2000’s. He said they would learn 3 versions of every song for concerts. He would give them a signal onstage as to which one they were playing on any given night. He said that one night they had to play on Letterman and apparently Prince didn’t really like him and didn’t want to talk to David after they played. So right before they go onstage Prince tells Morris that they are going to cut the second verse out of the song they were going to perform, go to the bridge, then Prince would put his fingers to his head like a gun, Morris was supposed to play the gunshot sample, then his bodyguard would come and drag Prince off stage. Morris had to quickly tell the rest of band all of this, then added “No Mistakes”!
Prince combined his "Dolphin" with David Bowie's "Heroes" during his 'Piano & A Microphone' tour in the last weeks of his life. A stunning version from March 25, 2016 in Toronto can be found on youtube.
Awesome comments and appreciation for Prince. It's a shame that Prince had to die for more people to really get how good he was. He was so protective of his music and you rarely saw any of his private concerts and shows. For me, it was a roller coaster of music from him. There were songs that just wasn't my thing and then there was everything else that Ioved. The one thing I could always agree to was his ability to play, sing, arrange, produce, and everything else that comes with music. Keep going down the rabbit hole with him. Watch some of his music that wasn't mainstream. That's where you really get to see his genius at music. There has been so much uploaded now that he is gone.
Absolutely my brother, I have a massive list of suggestions I will be going through with reactions (and also non Prince related material. I bought some of his music on itunes the other day. I hit the gym early in the morning, then as I'm not a fan of cardio machines, I go on long walks (I live in the middle of nowhere with much wildlife) I'm always listening to music when I do that so it's nice listening to new things... :)
Prince was known for getting only four hours of sleep per night and that behavior goes decades- possibly back to his high school years in the 70s. I have asked myself often in years past the very same question: where on Earth does he get the time to write so much, learn so many instruments, and learn them so proficiently? He also had a notoriously rigorous work ethic, considered a “workaholic” most of his life. His studio engineers from the 80s during his years of peak popularity, have talked in interviews about his pulling all nighters in the studios, requiring two and sometimes three engineers to work in shifts to help him finish recording a song. Allegedly, no one-neither staff nor band mates-could outlast him in the studio. . A few years ago, I found an online copy of a local article from Prince’s hometown in which one of his former high school music teachers basically said that they recalled Prince was NOT the most musically talented student in his class; he was however the most DRIVEN. That shook me, because for 30+ years I’d been listening to his music religiously, reading his lyrics, reading books and all kind of articles on him- thought I had him fairly figured out. Had this idea in mind that he was a prodigy with a singularly exceptional proclivity toward music. But what was really going on is that he was exceptionally motivated to learn everything he could about his craft. He made songwriting and performing and playing music look easy, most magical, but it was the result of excessive time and energy invested into rehearsal and practice. I came away with a whole new appreciation of his accomplishments and I did not Think that was even possible after listening to him for so many years. Prince paid his dues and then some to be that good At what he does… This is why I prefer to describe him as being ‘highly skilled’ as opposed to talented. Awesome reaction video! I really Appreciate you making this exception to your guitar-oriented format.This was really a treat 💯💜
Lee, this was an amazing post and a joy to read. When the topic of Prince being a prodigy, a savant, gifted, etc... no matter what I mention that he would have had to put in the time and the work. Growing up, although I had a keen interest in music, I also had a very traumatic repeated experiences with a music teacher in elementary school that really affected me, but my desire for music kept pushing me. I wasn't the most gifted, or natural with music and learning music, I even had friends trying to convince me to stop because I was that bad, but I persevered and I was fortunate to have an amazing guitar teacher that I'll always be grateful to (maybe I'll have him on for a video down the road if the channel keeps growing at this rate) who really helped open up my mind and gave me the tools I needed. In other words, if you are studying calculus in high school, and it seems to come more naturally to other people in your class than you, it doesn't mean you can't kick their ass in calculus if you put your mind to it and work hard. I think we might be cracking open another dimension and truth to Prince (I scratched the surface of this topic with my discussion with SA) he was willing to put in the work because of his drive. And to put in the work to be so proficient at so many instruments is mind boggling, hence why I always reference how efficient he must have been with his time.....
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar This was such a great response you wrote to my post. I’m so glad the story I shared brought U some joy. (Prince would be too.) It is unfortunate you crossed paths with a faithless teacher at such an tender age, and that it was emotionally scarring. But I am so thankful that you connected later in life with another, wonderful teacher who was able to help you see and realize your own potential as the accomplished guitarist U would become. Bless U for having the inner conviction, and passion for music, to transcend the criticism and discouragement. I know personally that is no small feet. In a fairly recent Prince reaction video you did, you played a tune at the beginning (Spanish influenced? I’d have to hear it again) and it was absolutely beautiful. 🎶🎵. I wanted to hear U play for us more than several seconds worth. I’ll have to check out a few of your tutorials to hear more of your playing. From what I heard and saw U do, U have mad skills! It would seem U and Prince share something critically important in common: an ultimately unshakable belief in self-or in the formidable power of Music-to lift U, and carry you past the negative messaging to a level of mastery that no one expected from either of U. Bravo!!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 Having your music teacher on one of your videos would be a nice touch, and enlightening to your audience to hear how profound their impact was on U. Keep up the fantastic work and may your sub numbers continue to grow!
My pianist friend was very impressed when I sent this to her years ago. Also somewhere on a RUclips version of this, a high level pianist or piano teacher breaks down his playing and says he's doing things intuitively that many trained pianists have a hard time learning.
The only word that comes to mind is Maestro. Websters definition of a Maestro is eminent composer, conductor or teacher of music. Prince was all of those things and SO much more! 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
I’m so glad you saw this one! Wow. You definitely have one of the best reaction videos and comments. I’ve collected pretty much all of his music on cassette. Then later on, the same thing with cds. Looking forward to the next one.
Marcus, I really appreciated your words in this post, and that you take the time out of your day to watch my videos and even better, take the time to comment on them. :)
There's a performance of "A Question of U" from around 1990. He starts off on the piano, climbs up on the top and shreds a guitar while flirting with a girl in the audience, then flicks his guitar pick to her, dances a ballet and performs some jazz splits. He makes it look like it's nothing but gives the aura of a rock god. ruclips.net/video/lwRKFQaWaBM/видео.html
Remember, Prince was a workaholic at music and was working when we were sleeping. Also note, piano was his first instrument he started with at 7 years old as a result of his dad being a jazz pianist.
Видеоклипы
Friends, some of you like my stories, and here is a video I posted about Alanis Morrissette. Kind of a cool little story as we grew up in the same neighbourhood and are the same age: ruclips.net/video/y7fgpFJtHOM/видео.html
To me he was music in human form.
I think that is an awesome analogy!
Wow!! I totally agree with you
Prince lived music to the fullest and literally dedicated his life to it. Prince did soundcheck for hours, did the gig for another 3 hours, and then would go to clubs and play after shows . This was a normal touring day. And Prince was such a musician that if you ask a lot of his die hard fans, who collect bootlegs, they'll tell you Prince's best solos and musician work is in his soundchecks. The songs were about the songs, the shows were about the shows, but on the soundchecks and rehearsals he could go off, and you'll find 10 minute guitar solos, piano jams, funk jams where they are doing the same 16 bar loop for 20 minutes etc.
This. 100%. 👋
Can you guys recommend any other soundcheck videos? Great post as always Verdean!
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar ruclips.net/video/AG6UamG6gRg/видео.html The first 20 minutes is a soundcheck, then interview for 20 mins (equally fascinating). And your favourite drummer is there doing the business... 😉
His soundchecks from this era show how he masterfully set up the sound for the audience, the visuals for the crowd, and exercised a band of wonderful musicians. It's always an education on diligence to watch these.
The best soundchecks, for me, are the mid-late 80s. A young guy just playing for the love of playing. Wailing on guitar or tinkling the ivories for hours to either stumble on inspiration or to chisel his band down to their best abilities.
Sadly the 80s soundchecks don't tend to have video, and if they do they're rarely in the public domain.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar @verdean613 @The Solitary Adventurer Agree with all the posts in this thread. While not a performance video, I find the 1988 rehearsal rendition of "Feel U Up" astounding on every level. Even if you don't feature it as a reaction, it's worth a listen on your own time: ruclips.net/video/cwBgp_aj2_8/видео.html
In rehearsals like you say, is where his talents really show as if they didn't in his concerts. I love prince in his most natural free to do whatever rehearsals. His experimenting with different arrangements and solos is jaw dropping. Simply the best. I think even zappa was annoyed by his level of musicianship 💜💜
Prince's father was a pianist and his mother a singer. He also was around and learned from some damn good musicians in Minneapolis. He was already a proficient musician as a young teen. He is a TRUE GENIUS.
That he sure was! A true legend! To be honest you also have me curious about integrated boxing system now too...
I wonder how much genetics plays a role? I've met some people who just can't keep a beat or sing in tune if their life depended on it. My grandmother, a lifelong pianist, said it was always apparent which kids had the most musical promise just by listening to them keep rhythm.
Prince was absolutely amazing! If memory serves me correctly piano was his 1st instrument. His father was a jazz pianist and had a piano in the home. I always loved his piano playing. So glad you reacted to this sound check of Summertime. His life was music and musicians could barely keep up with him. They always said working with Prince was extremely hard but it was a musical education they will never forget. They called it going to Paisley University (referring to Paisley Park), lol. I love your Prince reactions!!!! You are amazed every time but that's just Prince.
Memory serves you well... facts
Great post Chica! I learned more here about him from what you just told me :)
You’re not alone in feeling “like an ass”. SO many folks, unfortunately, discovered Prince’s huge talents only after he passed ….which I think is so sad. Now that I have studied his body of work, I too, am in total amazement at his incredible talent. The word talent even seems too weak for him. Anyway, I just wanted u to know that so many of us out here also woke up in April 2016. I could’ve gone to many Prince concerts (if I had only KNOWN) and never went to one and now I feel like I am his biggest fan. Unbelievable gifts he had. Maybe it had to do with his marketing of himself. Maybe? If anything, marketing was the one place where he was lacking. Seems like you could study him for years and still not be close to finishing.
@@chippy7745 Metoo!!
And one of the Frist song he learnt on piano was the 1960s batman theme song or chopsticks I can't remember correctly
His piano playing is simply magnificent. It was his first instrument and I put it at second to his guitar playing. If you want to see more of him playing I suggest you check out his piano medley from the Lovesexy tour in 1988. It shows off his talent even more than this clip. Love your reactions!
Hi Sherylanne! Great post! I have saved the link on that one and will do a future reaction video to it :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Okay! Thanks! I'm sure you'll love it!
Yes, the Lovysexy piano segment! There's also a recording (non-visual) from Sunset Sound in the 80's of him messing around on the piano.
@Tony I guess, to the untrained ear, if he did miss a few notes, I wouldn't be able to hear it. I've watched that 9 minute piano medley a lot of times and I haven't heard anything amiss, but that's just me. Not saying he didn't miss, but I just can't hear it. It is one of the best quality piano videos we have of playing him though, so.
You are not alone with just not knowing. I have been a huge fan all of my life and have tried to explain to people what they are missing, but all they picture is him on his motorcycle singing when doves cry. There is so much more. And all it takes is sitting down and taking the time to listen to discover the wonder that is Prince. Welcome to the club☔️💜🤷♀️
Thank you so much Kristi! I'm enjoying the ride for sure! :)
I know....right, I too, have been telling people, all of my purple life since 1978 of how truly gifted his " Royal Badness " was and still is 2 this day......I have been down with Prince since the very beginning and I am still amazed at the brilliance of Prince Rogers Nelson, so blessed to have seen him live...doing the damn thing as only he could !!!!!
Prince just casually throwing down some incredible jazz piano.
Prince WAS music. Listen to his jazz albums from NEWS, madhouse , esp “the rainbow children”. Was so lucky to see him 30 times and meet him in 2004
He WAS music!
Wow! What was meeting him like?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar
Amazing it was at 3:00am and he was still “up” after the amazing show he just performed here in San Diego
When I shook his hand, I could feel every muscle in his fingers
Truly an amazing moment
I've seen him live 4 times. He played piano at 3 of the 4 times. You should listen to Condition Of The Heart off of Around The World In A Day. Some great piano work on that one.
I've saved it and will do a reaction video in the near future. Great post thank you :)
DO NOT feel like an ass. You were meant to be here to give us TOTALLY unbiased views on Prince’s greatness. He took 2 piano lessons in school. Prince IS music.
2 piano lessons ?!?!?!?
2 because he could already play the piano, lol.
When Prince died, a local Twin Cities (Minneapolis-St. Paul) tv station...WCCO tv...had interviewed producer/artist Jimmy Jam on his history with Prince in Minneapolis...from being a competitor group to Jimmy joining The Time group courtesy of Prince.
Jimmy mentioned that he first knew Prince...when they were younger...via piano lessons. He mentioned that Prince stopped taking lessons...and that Prince could play circles around him on the piano! Both artists had very well-known pianist dads! (Jimmy's dad is Cornbread Harris.)
The news station reported that Prince's stepdad would punish Prince by making him go to his room. In return, Prince would play on his dad's piano...just to make his stepdad mad...who did not like Prince playing that specific piano.
In one of the Prince concerts I attended...before he played "Why Don't You Call Me Anymore" on piano...he declared "This is dedicated to Quincy Jones, who says I can't play piano." The nerve of Quincy to say that!!!
Ive followed him since 78 its funny watching ppl finding out decades later what ive know since i was 11.
Yes, and I feel like an ass now, I'm like "how did I not figure this out back in the 80's?" lol Love your posts Dave I hope all is well with you :)
Loving that you are exploring all these musical sides to Prince, he was SO much more than Purple Rain. Thank you ☔🎸💜
Thank You my friend for watching and commenting! I love reading your posts!
My God, truer words were never spoken (written).
Piano was his first instrument at 6 I think. Everything else followed and by high school he was a one man band. Prince blew my mind and showed me It’s one thing to be a multi-instrumentalist but it’s another thing to be that proficient at everything.
Highly recommend watching the piano medley from the Lovesexy tour. ruclips.net/video/gWnSs8an3b4/видео.html
I love him on guitar, but I could listen to hours of him playing piano.
Great post! Saved the link, I'll do a reaction video to it in the near future. :)
You’re welcome
ruclips.net/video/Q4bagiYV9mE/видео.html
Piano rehearsal in 1984
Prince suffered from Savant Syndrome......i think he's suffered from this syndrome & he was a pure genius ....all the things he 's practised in music & other domains were learnt very very quickly....he got perfect pitch & so much things ...his aptitude to learn things at a young age were well documented ...he saw one thing one time & this thing was in his mind 4 ever ( studio engineer habilities, experimenting all the times ...learning fast & working very hard) Prince is the MOzart/Bach of our times ...Really !
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Are you even aware that his last tour, the one he was on when he passed was a just him at the piano...? The whole 90-120 min sets were him alone...he played 2x a night and I actually saw him at his show 3 weeks before it all ended...
@@RBHADD I have recently heard that! Where did you see him perform?
I think the eventual Netflix documentary is going to be eye opening to many. I hope it covers the fact, his incredible talent was paralleled only by his work ethic
A guy like Prince I would much rather seen a documentary under his perspective
When is that supposed to come out R B?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar we hear, 2023
His Dad was an amazing pianist…legendary in the region where he lived.
I wonder if his dad did any recording? James! Just two more days!
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar there was an album circulating by his Dad many years ago, it was pretty cool.
@George Got that album
I am in awe of musicians in general. As someone who never progressed beyond the recorder, I salute all of you. And don't feel bad. Even as a person who loved Prince back in the 70s, 80s, 90s and early 2000s, I still slept on a lot of his music.
Your post was awesome, and the recorder bit really gave me a good laugh! Even though you don't play an instrument you rock missmiko1! :)
Rumors are that Prince was as great a Piano man as he was a Godly Guitar player!!! Love the Purplelish tone of your setup that matches perfectly with your Prince reactions!!
Great observation! In all honestly it was a coincidence.... :D
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Coincidence or Destiny? lol
Prince was the Mozart of the XXI Century ... Learn to play piaono at 6 and guitar at 12 years old I think. One of the first tv appearences on his album debut "For you" in 1978 one of the questions : How many intruments do you play? Prince answer after hesitations and smiles on hi face .... A Lot.
The little interview is on youtube.
I'm going to look for it, that is awesome!
I think he was on a different level than Mozart… Mozart wasn’t proficient on multiple instruments either. I think that Prince s intelligence was never comprehended. Prince was a polymath. Prince was great at so many things …from table tennis, basketball, billiards etc…
@George Prince was not just a pop musician..Lol
You really don’t know Princd at all
@George how do you know for sure that Beethoven Bach and Mozart actually did all of that work? You weren’t back then, so how did you know for sure. We can see with Prince . I’ve seen it in person with Prince.
@George don’t believe everything you read from a time period that you were not existent in
Prince was an excellent athlete, artist(drawing) and could paint.
I think if he also went into MMA he would be the UFC lightweight champion. There's nothing he couldn't do....
Prince was music It thrilled him and also cost him,When u live and breathe it women never understood him as he was always in a studio creating and in his creating u hone ur craft.Hes a great drummer too,As for u feeling like an ass,You have matured and ur tastes and tolerances change and a better understanding That comes with age my brother.Im so glad you are on this journey.The mighty Victor wooten on bass whom is a master of his craft sites prince as one of his influences.Keep on keeping on you are doing a stellar job and I'm enjoying your reviews the more u do
Bravo sir
Peace and be wild
My good friend Taurrean, you mentioned another legend, Victor Wooten.... amazing bass player!
I really like your reactions on Prince. The best artist ever 💜
Keep going 👏
Thank you Wilcos! When I see your name in the comments I always think of the band Wilco....
I've been blessed to be aware of PRINCE GENIUS REFLECTED in this particular 📹 video since his "FOR YOU" recording on my 8TRACK player. I researched his musicality throughout my teenage years into my adult life.
He hardly ever slept or ate. He lived and breathed music pretty much 24/7. Music and women. That was pretty much it.
I had heard that, amazing!
Mostly music. The women in his life have competed with music for his time.
@@KKMDStyle Music was 1st no doubt but Women were a close 2nd. LOL
Just recently discovered your channel. Thanks so much for these Prince reaction videos. I can't even describe how dedicated I was to Prince's Music. His live stuff, will never forget. Took my dad to his concert way back, never seen my dad dance like that. There was a period in my life that all I listened to was Prince. Carrying my walkman across campus with Prince playing in my ears. AND, my first born son is named Prince. And my daughter is named Anastasia (from Prince's Anna Stesia).
But when I heard his death. I stopped. I couldn't do it. I keep track of the Prince Estate now. See their re-issues and new music releases. I mostly pass it by now.
But seeing about a some of your Prince's Reaction videos. I pulled out my vinyl, got a record player... and appreciating again what he was able to accomplish.
I am not a musician, can't play any instrument... but I do realize what an amazing talent that man is. But mostly, I loved how his music made me feel.
He wrote all of Morris Day and the Time's music. He came up with their entire image. Told them how he wanted the front man to play.
I have recently heard that! I have seen some more recent interviews with Morris Day and he seemed to acknowledge a lot about Prince...
You are so correct, he was a prodigy but also had a clear vision and worked at it all the time. Some people are genetically able to function on little sleep, he was one of those types that only needed a few hours. Prince was mostly self-taught, piano was actually his first instrument age 7. Prince is the great American success story, I hope people start to see him in this light. BTW, he was rumored to be a killer basketball player and could have been a contender on a national level if he wasn't so short. He was a really complicated personality.
I definitely cannot function on no sleep, part of why I retired from gigging all the time, getting home at 7 or 8am in the morning starts to catch up with you.... I still wonder as he grew up in Minnesota, did he play hockey?
He was awesome!!! My introduction to his music was 1978. I was listening to his first album on a cassette tape , with headphones, while mowing the lawn as a kid. I've been a fan ever since.
My first Prince concert was in 1981. I eventually went to eight of his concerts over the years. The group The Time he created, produced, wrote their songs/music. Some of those solos for every instrument was off the charts. I hope you do a reaction to one or both of the first two The Time albums, again to showcase his funky side.
Also, if you're not familiar, there's a jazz song he did that is super amazing...When The Lights Go Down.
Sorry, almost forgot Live4Love ... multiple awesome guitar solos...trust me.
You are not alone in not realising just how talented Prince was until it was too late.
I was fortunate to have seen home perform many many times from 1990 through to his Last UK tour. I knew just how great he was. Being front row many times was always an awesome experience.
So many people didn't know. Just didn't know. 😢
I sadly am one of them, but I've been learning, we've been doing a deep dive on the purple yoda for over a year and a half now, let me know what you think! :)
I know what you are saying, you are amazed like the rest of us and you luv him.🤩🤩🤩🤩Just luv him.💜💜💜
I do! My dream next year is to go to Paisley Park, and then the year after to Bondi Beach! :)
“Virtuoso” 💜
Piano was one of his first instruments, beginning to teach himself at age 7. His father was a jazz pianist who played under the moniker Prince Rogers, which was the genesis of Prince's name.
Prince programed his own synthesizers as well, which was uncommon in the early days. Rick James actually stole Prince's programmed synths after Prince toured with James as his opening act. According to Teena Marie (also on the same tour), James stole the synths and used them on his album Street Songs, then sent them back to Prince with a thank you card.
Great post John! :) I'm wondering if the early synths were MOOGS or had KORG come on the scene by then.... That Rick James was a character!
The guy played 27 instruments on his debut album. When he was 19. He also wrote all the songs, produced the entire record, and sang every vocal. I repeat, a 19 year old kid produced, played and sang all of “For You”. He also did it for the majority of his albums during his lifetime. The guy was an absolute force of nature. Also, don’t feel like an ass. He didn’t shout from the rooftops “I AM A MUSICAL GENIUS”. He just made music and put it out there, and people who really dove in found out all the rest.
Great post as always Mike! 27 instruments?!?!?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar well, some of those included "hand claps" and "finga snaps", and different kinds of guitar, bass and synths. So realistically, maybe 20. But still very impressive for a teenager! And in his later years he said he could play around 30 instruments.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar yup 27. The guy could play everything. One of my fav lines from him (think it was some random interview he did as an online chat in the 90s) was someone asked him how many instruments he played and he said “can play anything. Only 27 good.” Like, oh, only 27? Yeah you freakin slacker, clean up your act 😂
@@Ed7501 very true. Whether or not a tambourine counts as an instrument has been a fun little debate in the fan community for many years 🤣
The only reason he put a band together was so he could tour.
Prince and the Modern-Day Mozart
🧡💜💙💛💙💜🧡
Absolutely! I hope all is well with you Olie!
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Yes thanks
Another cool prince reaction. I like the way u notice the little things a a musician, but also notice the perfection and work prince put in. We re close to the same age, and when u talk about what u missed in prince back then, I think we all did. The songs are great, but u really did nt know until u saw a live show or a television performance, or when the bootlegs started coming out. He always performed rhe song differently. He got that from james brown. He saw james, janes made him want to dance. He always felt, u can buy the record, and listen to that, i want to give u something different live. W the rehearsal s sonetines rhey might work on one part for a hour. That 1 part might only be 4 notes, but he s trying to make it perfect. Also having the band leran the show perfectly, then he can adlib, call an audible, play, dance , so something totally different, but if u know your part to perfection, even that wont throw u off. A couple of 1987 shows during a sax solo, he took eric leeds wallet and started going through it, just to mess w him or so whatever. Also when u watch him, he does cue the band w hand signals so they know when to switch gears. If u watch the mtv under the cherry moon contest, he performs, you'll see some of the signals he does. His performance starts at 27:27 this is it. ruclips.net/video/kQrZ4tXmJx4/видео.html also if u watch prince in snl 1980 doing party up, he cues the band. Thats not on you tube, but u can search on google. It is on facebook. Also you l l see hand signals on "housequake" from sign o the times movie, th at should be on you tube. Keep up the good work.
Great post Marcus, I loved reading it. Thank you for the kind words :)
Prince liked to be challenged. That is partly why on his last tour it was just Prince, a piano, and a microphone. There are stories where certain audience members weren't feeling Prince's music and Prince actively tries to get them on board and does get them into it while in concert. Prince wanted the challenge.
Great point...and I always felt he challenged us too with his music...no words tbh .. absolutely love the man..
I totally agree!
Why would u be at his concerts if I weren't into his music that makes no sense. Piano was the first instrument he played
@@theteleisewilliamsexperience well sometimes people don't like certain types of music and they take a loved one who does like that type of music.
His timing is absolutely insane. When Prince was young he wanted to move with the music so he danced more. Plus he had already played the instruments on the albums. When he got older, he was almost always behind his guitar.
Great post! Yes I noticed as well how great his timing is! :)
Dude wait til you see him Dance, you gotta check out his best dance breaks
Is there a video for that? I'm scared to as it will remind me how bad my cardio is right now...
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar 😂 yea the most popular one is called “Prince’s best dance breaks on RUclips
Yeah, saw him live in the late eighties and beginning of the nineties when he was still doing splits and jumps and crawled on the floor half of his shows :-) An amazing performer with almost super natural abilities. When did he find time to learn all those moves? Actually he trained dancing while rehearsing the music with his band(s). There are videos of these cellar rehearsals on youtube. His body was like an instrument too, that he mastered. It's incredible, just incredible!
He was music, he was magic.
He sure was Margi!
Great reaction. I have seen this video and I really enjoy it, like other clips from his sound checks. There is another good one from the Musicology tour in 2004. The sound checks are a good reminder of what a great band leader he was.
Here’s the link. ruclips.net/video/ZMJQFe9frTw/видео.html
Treat us - ruclips.net/video/AG6UamG6gRg/видео.html Please react to the first 15 minutes of this video, showing the sound check before he is interviewed.
Enjoy the journey. From what I remember he started school piano at about 4yrs theiugh his father by his teens he was already accomplished at piano guitar bass drums. His first album played all instruments and could play about 30 I syrumsnts at concert level proficiency. So yes a true prodigy and literally genius
Love your reactions to him. I love seeing people discover him. I love Prince!
Thank you so much! :) I must ask, are you related to Steve?
Prince gave the answer-as a child he was locked in a room with a piano for weeks where he had nothing else to do but learn it
He was a great humanitarian but very private about that.
I think he was private about much in his life, would you not say so Margi?
He seems not of this world. Relaxed , not a care in the world other than the groove. Biggest star in the world yet humble
He sure is Lee :)
That was an awesome reaction! Actually brought tears to my eyes because I know how you feel.
I was the same way with the band Jefferson Starship. I only knew the hits, but when I did a deep dive, I saw how much I really missed with that band.
I think music flows through me (especially my ear) and "my mother said when I was 12 - whoever is singing the song, (the song was "International Lover") is special." She knew by the chord progression and the complexity yet also simple melody was from someone special. I remember replying, "Mom, that is Prince. The guy that dad said I can't play in the house" (though I did). She said, "I thought so. He has a unique sound - you can tell he knows songwriting." My mom's first instrument is piano (and she and my father made me play piano + 1 (another instrument - my choice on the second). I was never that great at piano yet I know music - if that makes sense. Some people don't have the chops but still know the art. Some consider piano as Prince's first instrument (depending on the listener). My mom thought he was an excellent piano player because he knew his chords yet she thinks guitar is his true gift (1st instrument).
All that to say, I am so pumped you are digging your journey. You are right - there are so many talented people you have to cover. Yet, I can guarantee you - we will be so excited when you cover P. I would not be mad if you threw in Jefferson Starship (with Marty on lead). Also, can't wait for you react to "Crazy" - Prince in concert with CeeLo (hint, hint)!
Dr Taylor, I love your posts! That one you mentioned is in the cards for the near future :) About Jefferson Starship. There was a version of "White Rabbit" with the vocal track of Grace Slick isolated. I found at times she could be quite mesmerizing. The sad thing, and as you know I am honest, is that I totally relate Jefferson Starship to "We Built This City" which was also an overexposed hit which repels me away.... I would like to research this band more as well after your post..... Where should I start?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Thank you for your kind words. If Only You Believe - would be a great place to start with Jefferson Starship. Marty Ballin is awesome on vocals. Of course there is no heavy guitar yet from a total composition perspective, I think it's in your wheelhouse. Hope you enjoy. If it's not directly in your sweet spot, I would understand, but as a music lover, I think you may enjoy (you likely know the song already).
Great video. Very humble and honest reaction. Thank you for doing these for all of us.
Thank you so much Elliot! And thank you for watching and commenting :)
He is considered a virtuoso on guitar and piano. And self-taught to boot! One of his earliest exposures to instruments in school, his teacher said it was obvious right away to just leave him alone with the instruments. He was gifted from the jump. I think he is the greatest musician of our generation and one of the most unappreciated. But once you do a deep dive you discover the genius of Prince. I love seeing you learn more about him. He was also a great mentor to so many musicians.
I loved this post! Thank you it’s a great ride for sure! 😊
Prince was soooo much more than Michael Jackson there's truly no comparison
Now that I am more educated about Prince (and learning more and more from the viewers every day) I totally agree :)
His first instrument was the piano. Check out his piano medley from the LoveSexy concert. Actually that whole concert is the bomb. And you're nowhere near an a**. We love your honest take on his music💜💜
Thanks Wanda! I wonder where my brain was in the 80's.... and also the 90's... and while we are at it the 2000s' and the 2010s.....
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar you were into the music you liked. But you're on a purple ride now. Hope you're enjoying it💜
you're no ass. you are here now & you're doing a good job clarifying the many reasons that make Prince is the best there has been.
It would have been easy to miss artists back then because we didn't have the internet to find the music. I have always loved Prince (even though I am a non-musician). I feel like I am also finding great musicians (ex. Stevie Ray Vaughan) primarily because of the net.
The internet is a double edged sword that's for sure, but finding treasures with music is one of the great assets to the net :) Love your post Paul! :)
You are not the only one... Prince was sooo talented!!
"how did he do it" that is what i've been asking myself for a long time.
We DO get what you are saying! Please carry on, you are brilliant! 💜💜💜
Prince Live After Shows are the best
I have heard that! Are there any that are your favourites?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar London 21 nights at the O2 in 2007. He played an after show nearly every night. I was lucky enough to go to one straight after the main show and enjoyed it even more. Being real close to the stage it was far more impressive to see him like that where you could really witness how awesome a guitarist he REALLY was.
His Father John L.Nelson Was A Jazz Pianist And Had The Prince Rogers Trio(Hence Where Prince’s Name Came From)And He Grew Up Around His Father And His Mother Was A Jazz Singer
Someone recently posted in the comments section a link to one of his father's songs, I want to do a reaction video to it soon. I'm really looking forward to hearing it.
Ooooosh go on.so glad you checked that out but didn't think you would do a reaction to piano lol awesome bro ,oh and he really didn't sleep much,he was constantly writing.theres a story out there about prince making a video,I mean full production stuff and requests a live camel for the set.it was middle of winter in Minneapolis at 4am lol.he didn't get the camel they talked him out of it.prince supposedly has more movies in his vault.he just don't stop.how did he find time for his ladies . 💜💜💜
I'm thinking he was into alot of caffeine since he didn't sleep.... what are your thoughts on that Sly?
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar He could have been,maybe caffeine pills.who knows what he was popping way back when. He sure had the drive without it. I thought he might have been autistic. Or at least on the spectrum somewhere. But there isn't any discussion about that anywhere that I can find. Maybe music was his focus. Always occupied. He would write lyrics about anything, even food. Another drive for him may have been the loss of his children. Was so sad. That's a whole other story. Extremely spiritual and religious headtrip he went through. I know that would drive me to the thing I know most, for him a studio on his own. He really didn't belong on earth. Always in his studio. To give you an idea on some of the things that motivated him was like once he did a gig for deaf people just so they could feel his groove. Is that pushing the boundaries of music into pure vibrations or what. So I think some people just have electrified brains and they probably don't even need the cafiene. Prince imo was one of them.💜💜
@@slyleggs4344 That concert you speak of was in Washington, DC where I was living at the time back in 84 or 85. I remember it well, he wanted to do this because he felt those students would not be able to see or hear him perform. It was at Gallaudet University which is a school for the Deaf & Blind. It was kept secret until it was over.
@@chica4530 just wondered, is there a video recording of this. Would love to see that. Thanks for that info. 💜
@@slyleggs4344 I’m sure it’s in the vault. Prince started recording everything early on or maybe he felt this was too personal to record. 🤷🏽♀️. Everyone in DC was talking about his free concert for the students there. He played extremely loud so the deaf students could feel the vibrations of his music.
Looks he can do it while running a one wheel bibycle in the middle of a Boulevard.... so much ease! Incredible musician. One of most well rounded musician of all time!! Period!!
He put the 24k people Nashville arena to complete silence singing a capella with only a plain guitar on a revolving bench. Memorable!!
Prince was a versatile musician, he did some instrumental albums.
Hi Antonio! Yes for sure, as I'm learning, he seems to have been able to do everything!
The one thing I love to see and hear on YT after his unfortunate passing from our world is all the great YT musicians, content creators and other people waking up to Prince. My introduction to Prince happened many moons ago by “coincidence”🤔 I’ve always considered it a privilege and one of the lucky ones who discovered Prince in the 70’s walking into a record store as an 8 year old child while the “in store DJ “ was playing his very first commercial release titled “soft and wet”. As a music lover, I never heard anything like it and bugged the hell out of my reluctant mother to buy me the “45 single”, It would be years later since I understood the title of that song🤣 but over the years seeing Prince grow was like watching the seed of an oak tree grow into a rock solid giant and I got to go out and be under the mighty branches and leaves. As an artist and musician myself, he taught me how to bend the rules of thinking about how music has no boundaries and is to be explored in many unique and various ways…I am eternally grateful to Prince. 🙏🏾💯❤️
Such an amazing post! I'm also grateful to you for taking the time to watch the video and comment :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar it is I who am grateful to you🙏🏾 Thank you for sharing your awesome creative talent. 💯😁
No need to feel like an ass, buddy. Even at 49 years old, I still discover music for the first time that makes me think, “how the hell didn’t I know about this!”
I’m loving your videos, you’ve a great perspective and insight, you make me laugh too, thanks, we need more laughter.
Seriously, check out play that funky music live. He shreds on guitar and bass, it’s epic!
That's already on the channel. Excellent reaction!
@@thesolitaryadventurer ah, thank you. I’ve searched and watched it, yeah, great reaction. Thank you for that. 🙏🏻
So we can relate as we are pretty much the same age with wondering why we missed it back in the 80's lol...
This dude always has my back :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Happy to! .cs.
You know because of Prince I discovered so much music. He allowed me to open up my mind. Joni Mitchell is one of them. Recently, the great Terry Kath. I saw a interview where Producer Jimmy Jam from The Time said when Prince was younger in school, he played the solo from Make Me Smile by Terry Kath from Chicago. So I looked up the song and discovered this beast of a White man who sounded like Ray Charles and played like he was Jimi Hendrix's adopted Brother. Amazing to me that at 13 or 15 he (Prince) was playing guitar like that adjacent to piano. One of his friends from those early days said he paid attention to details when his Band would cover songs. Not just casually playing a song even back then before he landed a deal at 17yrs with Warner Bros. He was fastidious because his Dad was an amazing pianist. Prince was emulating his Father's playing. He said he wanted to get as good. He said his Dad used to taunt him with words like,You will never be as good as me. Obviously, Prince went on to be a famous musician and through his son is why the world even knows about his Dad. So Prince won that battle hands down. But,playing multiple instruments he exceeded his Dad's potential. Anyway thanks for sharing this sound check. I saw it before.
Great post Garfield! The great Terry Kath. He was phenomenal, probably my favourite guitarist from the 70's. I don't think the world really knows how amazing that man was on guitar, and his death was tragic.... I'm getting the idea that Prince's father wasn't the nicest guy, and it fueled Prince's drive with music....
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Well Prince's Dad was a man of belief and principles according to scources. He had to work take care of his family. The music was more of a side thing for his Father. I heard Prince used to play the organ in church with him. But, your right as a repository for his lack supporting his son. Because, Prince was kicked out of his Dad's house for bringing a girl home. So early on Prince had to look out for himself. So as you mentioned how did he time manage to practice those instruments. I believe it's the way he practice which was effective to understand the mechanisms of each instrument. His Father instilled practice. Also not to get distracted. He worked at it.
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Prince said his Dad was a strict disciplinarian but said most Fathers were during that time. I'm sure when his Father said he would never play piano as good as him definitely fueled him, maybe that's what his Father wanted to do.
Prince rehearsals: sheila e said they would learn the whole show, then he d come in the next day and change the whole show, so it s learning a totally different show, but now they know its, so when he switches gears or givea a hand signals, they l l be ready. Sometimes he d give basic instructions in rehearsal, "chorus, then sax solo, chorus twice then matt, miko, Sheila solo in that order" that way they l l know what to expect it the show.
I remember back in the day, on some internet forums I frequent... there would be a thread about Prince from time to time. The non fans who are musicians or guitarists themselves would often say that Prince was good on guitar, but not great. That he wouldn't even crack the top 100 greatest guitarists. It was so frustrating at the time because Prince did not allow his music to be on youtube while he was still around. So I wasn't able to offer any proof, LOL.... So sad he's not around anymore... but on the plus side.. now we have proof :)
I do agree. I also heard or read awhile ago he was quite vicious with lawyers when anything is on RUclips, apparently Don Henley from the Eagles pays a STAFF to constantly scour RUclips for the same reasons...
Prince graduated from High School, went to Warner Bros Records in Burbank California and said,”I’ll sign with you as long as I play all the instruments on the songs I write and I produce it too.” That’s when record labels ruled the business too. He was a natural. A natural prodigy. Writer, instrumentalist, singer, frontman, dancer and legendary guitarist.
He sure was Bill, I missed the whole Prince thing back in the day and have only woken up to his genius in more recent times. The community here on my channel have really educated me about him, but it seems the more I learn the more I have to learn. Better late than never I guess ..... Great post :)
He wrote "Manic Monday" by the Bangles.
Yes, that I did know, but my question back mister bojangles: "Did he do a recording version of that one himself?"
Piano songs I love a lot:
Condition of my Heart
Under the Cherry Moon
One Nite Alone Album
Did he not make a movie called Under the Cherry Moon?
He was really really good by the time he was a teen but he just got greater and greater
Great reaction. I remember seeing an interview with Prince where he said, he knew from a young age that any 9-5 wouldn't have interested him and he wouldn't have been good at it...he then put every bit of his energy into music. Many of his band members also said that, especially in the early years, they would jam into the early hours...by the next morning he would play them a recording of a finished track...so someone who got by with very little sleep!
I personally hated 9 to 5. There are many bad guitar teachers out there, I am so thankful that my first formative teacher was a great one and really showed me the way, I was able to make a good living teaching and performing and I've always been so grateful. On that note this channel is really starting to take off, and I'm very grateful to everyone who takes part in the community here, including yourself. I can't believe so many people (and this channel is still small) take the time out of their day to watch the videos and comment. It blows my mind!
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Keep doing what you are doing and don't be afraid to react to a variety of music...its all about learning!
Prince always said, "I have a God given gift". The man respected his talent and as you said managed his time. When people ask me who my favorite musician is I tell them Prince. They do not get they look at me strange. Glad you get it. Liz
Thank you so much Liz, I'm glad I get it now, better late than never, where the hell was my brain in the 80's? :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar I think people just listened to music they liked or grew up on. I've always been into R&B so I tend to listen to that music style but I'm still aware of other artist outside of that realm. Therefore I was into Prince early on, actually his first album then hearing he played every instrument on that album impressed us all during that time. He knew he was a musical genius but also recognized where his gifts came from. Early on he did push the envelope but he was young and just being gifted wasn't enough to get you noticed and talked about. People will tell you Prince from the beginning was on a musical mission, he couldn't stop making music even if he wanted to. He said songs and melodies came to him all the time and he had no choice but to record them, he just couldn't stop. Another problem WB had with him and he with them.
Love Prince.
There was nothing else like him, and there might never be again. Prince was special
So true Erin, we discuss this often in more detail on my Patreon reaction community. He was one in a billion...
People who know, know. This guy wasn't just your ordinary musician. In his own genre - 'popular music' - he belongs in the same group of prodigiously gifted artists as Mozart, Beethoven, Chopin, right through to the likes of Robert Johnson & Miles Davis. Genius comprises many different outfits but only certain individuals get to wear them in complete comfort. Prince was most definitely one of those.
Thanks for reacting!
If u like this…would love u to hear him at a sound check in 1998 Madrid…he is on piano, a guest guitar player referred to as ‘Jackie Brown’ plays…Prince jokes all through and ends with a superb piano end…skillz
I'm definitely going to do some reaction videos to his soundchecks for sure :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar how do we get in touch so I can give you some, off the soundboard, soundchecks/rehearsals....??
@@RBHADD yesyoucanplayguitar@gmail.com
@@RBHADD Email received! Thank you :) That cover of him on Guitar World! What edition was that?!?!?!? (Month/year?!?!?)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar 1994
Great reaction
Thank you :)
Prince’s soundchecks were better than most performer’s concert.
He learnt the piano first. His dad was a jazz pianist. Guitar second. Prince loved jazz. You should check out his jazz albums. The Rainbow Children, One Nite Alone Live, NEWS and C-Note
Great post Scott. The more I learn about him the more I learn there is more to learn and hear! :)
No offense to anyone but whom compare Prince with Michael Jackson know very little about music. Jacson was an interpret and Prince a musician, writer, producer, etc.Taking the home building analogy: Jackson was one of best carpenter in the business while Prince was also one of finest carpenter but also contractor, architect, engineer, electrician, plummer, landscaping etc. Can't compare both!!! Only can compare the carpenter aspect of the home building. Only that!
BTY Kudos to you and your review and honest and humble approach to Prince's abilities discovering him with open mind and from a real musician perspective with no BS. Love it!
Thank you Richard :)
You are so so right about this question about time. It kills me that I have not been able to squeeze enough practice time on my piano. Prince on the other hand was so talented on every instrument that it was just ridiculous! Please check out Prince's surprise, live, guitar solo on a RUclips video playing "While My Guitar Gently Weeps". His performance on that sound was nothing short of remarkable! It is a shame that he died so young with so much left to give.
I did and it was amazing Timothy! That was the video that set off my education about him :)
He learned to play piano literally at his father's feet. As a child he would sit at his father's feet listening to him play. The mythology around this (w/Prince it's hard to know what's truth and what's legend) is that his dad wouldn't let Prince touch the piano because Prince couldn't play well enough to use it. When his father moved out (I can't remember how old he was, but Prince was pretty young) - his dad left the piano and Prince almost literally locked himself in with the piano for six months and taught himself to play.
He taught himself every instrument he played, and never learned to read music. I did read a story that he had a music teacher in high school who loaned him a music theory book, and when he brought it back to her he said he had already figured most of it out for himself, he just hadn't known what things were "called"... he was just born to be a musician.
I think also Rhonda he had a very unnatural drive to succeed and learn.. definitely a type A personality with possible OCD traits.... Great post as always :)
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar LOL - I believe you are correct; another part of the Prince mythos is that he didn’t sleep… he was up creating all night, every night.
You should watch Prince Electric Intercourse Live 1983. He’s playing piano. Also his America music video and It’s gonna be a Beautiful Night Live. In both he takes over for his drummer. The first is Bobby Z., the second Sheila E. There is also a 6 minute drum compilation that shows these two and more.
Tracy, I will definitely check them out. I have it saved and noted for a future reaction :) I hope you doing well in this crazy world :)
Cool. I’m glad to see that you respond to most comments even if it doesn’t happen right away. I look forward to your Prince reactions. I’ve watched a few of your others too, but Prince is my favorite. I recently read an article where Morris Hayes, one of his keyboardists in NPG and musical director was talking about working with Prince. He was with Prince for 20+ years from the early 90’s into the 2000’s. He said they would learn 3 versions of every song for concerts. He would give them a signal onstage as to which one they were playing on any given night. He said that one night they had to play on Letterman and apparently Prince didn’t really like him and didn’t want to talk to David after they played. So right before they go onstage Prince tells Morris that they are going to cut the second verse out of the song they were going to perform, go to the bridge, then Prince would put his fingers to his head like a gun, Morris was supposed to play the gunshot sample, then his bodyguard would come and drag Prince off stage. Morris had to quickly tell the rest of band all of this, then added “No Mistakes”!
Prince combined his "Dolphin" with David Bowie's "Heroes" during his 'Piano & A Microphone' tour in the last weeks of his life. A stunning version from March 25, 2016 in Toronto can be found on youtube.
Awesome comments and appreciation for Prince. It's a shame that Prince had to die for more people to really get how good he was. He was so protective of his music and you rarely saw any of his private concerts and shows. For me, it was a roller coaster of music from him. There were songs that just wasn't my thing and then there was everything else that Ioved. The one thing I could always agree to was his ability to play, sing, arrange, produce, and everything else that comes with music. Keep going down the rabbit hole with him. Watch some of his music that wasn't mainstream. That's where you really get to see his genius at music. There has been so much uploaded now that he is gone.
Absolutely my brother, I have a massive list of suggestions I will be going through with reactions (and also non Prince related material. I bought some of his music on itunes the other day. I hit the gym early in the morning, then as I'm not a fan of cardio machines, I go on long walks (I live in the middle of nowhere with much wildlife) I'm always listening to music when I do that so it's nice listening to new things... :)
Prince was known for getting only four hours of sleep per night and that behavior goes decades- possibly back to his high school years in the 70s. I have asked myself often in years past the very same question: where on Earth does he get the time to write so much, learn so many instruments, and learn them so proficiently?
He also had a notoriously rigorous work ethic, considered a “workaholic” most of his life. His studio engineers from the 80s during his years of peak popularity, have talked in interviews about his pulling all nighters in the studios, requiring two and sometimes three engineers to work in shifts to help him finish recording a song. Allegedly, no one-neither staff nor band mates-could outlast him in the studio. .
A few years ago, I found an online copy of a local article from Prince’s hometown in which one of his former high school music teachers basically said that they recalled Prince was NOT the most musically talented student in his class; he was however the most DRIVEN. That shook me, because for 30+ years I’d been listening to his music religiously, reading his lyrics, reading books and all kind of articles on him- thought I had him fairly figured out. Had this idea in mind that he was a prodigy with a singularly exceptional proclivity toward music. But what was really going on is that he was exceptionally motivated to learn everything he could about his craft. He made songwriting and performing and playing music look easy, most magical, but it was the result of excessive time and energy invested into rehearsal and practice. I came away with a whole new appreciation of his accomplishments and I did not Think that was even possible after listening to him for so many years. Prince paid his dues and then some to be that good At what he does…
This is why I prefer to describe him as being ‘highly skilled’ as opposed to talented.
Awesome reaction video! I really Appreciate you making this exception to your guitar-oriented format.This was really a treat 💯💜
Lee, this was an amazing post and a joy to read. When the topic of Prince being a prodigy, a savant, gifted, etc... no matter what I mention that he would have had to put in the time and the work. Growing up, although I had a keen interest in music, I also had a very traumatic repeated experiences with a music teacher in elementary school that really affected me, but my desire for music kept pushing me. I wasn't the most gifted, or natural with music and learning music, I even had friends trying to convince me to stop because I was that bad, but I persevered and I was fortunate to have an amazing guitar teacher that I'll always be grateful to (maybe I'll have him on for a video down the road if the channel keeps growing at this rate) who really helped open up my mind and gave me the tools I needed. In other words, if you are studying calculus in high school, and it seems to come more naturally to other people in your class than you, it doesn't mean you can't kick their ass in calculus if you put your mind to it and work hard. I think we might be cracking open another dimension and truth to Prince (I scratched the surface of this topic with my discussion with SA) he was willing to put in the work because of his drive. And to put in the work to be so proficient at so many instruments is mind boggling, hence why I always reference how efficient he must have been with his time.....
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar This was such a great response you wrote to my post. I’m so glad the story I shared brought U some joy. (Prince would be too.) It is unfortunate you crossed paths with a faithless teacher at such an tender age, and that it was emotionally scarring. But I am so thankful that you connected later in life with another, wonderful teacher who was able to help you see and realize your own potential as the accomplished guitarist U would become. Bless U for having the inner conviction, and passion for music, to transcend the criticism and discouragement. I know personally that is no small feet.
In a fairly recent Prince reaction video you did, you played a tune at the beginning (Spanish influenced? I’d have to hear it again) and it was absolutely beautiful. 🎶🎵. I wanted to hear U play for us more than several seconds worth. I’ll have to check out a few of your tutorials to hear more of your playing. From what I heard and saw U do, U have mad skills!
It would seem U and Prince share something critically important in common: an ultimately unshakable belief in self-or in the formidable power of Music-to lift U, and carry you past the negative messaging to a level of mastery that no one expected from either of U. Bravo!!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Having your music teacher on one of your videos would be a nice touch, and enlightening to your audience to hear how profound their impact was on U.
Keep up the fantastic work and may your sub numbers continue to grow!
I just remembered - when he whispers to the guy, it's to tell the cameraman to stop filming!
Ahhhhh ok! He knew it would end up on a bootleg somewhere maybe lol
@@YesYouCANPlayGuitar Always charge for the good stuff! 🤣
Prince filmed everything which it actually funny.
Dude, you are awesome. Really liking your channel. New sub
You are too kind, I really appreciate it :)
My pianist friend was very impressed when I sent this to her years ago. Also somewhere on a RUclips version of this, a high level pianist or piano teacher breaks down his playing and says he's doing things intuitively that many trained pianists have a hard time learning.
It sure impressed me, I'd love to check that breakdown video sometime. Great post LL C :)
He played keyboard alone on that 94 East album that Pepe Willie released.
I definitely want to check that out!
In that video of him when he was 11, at the time he was already playing 7 instruments fluidly. Crazy at 11 years old..
Very amazing Clarence for sure, he was definitely a prodigy and a savant :)
The only word that comes to mind is Maestro. Websters definition of a Maestro is eminent composer, conductor or teacher of music. Prince was all of those things and SO much more! 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜
Thank you so much for watching, and I agree completely about Prince. This was an older video I have made, my videos have come a long way since then :)
I Love how you tack you time and teach me and other the other side of the music Price was something we well not she again in this life time greatness
Thank you so much Geno, I agree, sadly we will likely not see another. The way the world is going, I'm wondering how much longer we have left...
I’m so glad you saw this one! Wow. You definitely have one of the best reaction videos and comments. I’ve collected pretty much all of his music on cassette. Then later on, the same thing with cds. Looking forward to the next one.
Marcus, I really appreciated your words in this post, and that you take the time out of your day to watch my videos and even better, take the time to comment on them. :)
His dad was a jazz pianist, he played with Miles Davis.
The dad never played with Miles professionally. He may have met Miles when Prince befriended him in the late 80s.
@@thesolitaryadventurer Do your research. You're wrong.
This is very interesting, I want to look into that more :)
@@ikenga02 I'm happy to do more research. Can you point me in the right direction please?
@@ikenga02 en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_L._Nelson
Wouldn't it be mentioned if he did something as notable as play with Miles...?
There's a performance of "A Question of U" from around 1990. He starts off on the piano, climbs up on the top and shreds a guitar while flirting with a girl in the audience, then flicks his guitar pick to her, dances a ballet and performs some jazz splits. He makes it look like it's nothing but gives the aura of a rock god. ruclips.net/video/lwRKFQaWaBM/видео.html
Great suggestion LB! I've saved and noted it for a future reaction video :)
Remember, Prince was a workaholic at music and was working when we were sleeping. Also note, piano was his first instrument he started with at 7 years old as a result of his dad being a jazz pianist.
Calling out the changes to the band!😂
The piano is the first instrument he taught himself. He practised constantly and being a perfectionist he was consistent.
I love the review on the video and I love the video 2 😢😅❤ thank u
Thank you Shirley! :)
Piano is his first instrument due to his father 💜