Controversy
- Prince Lyrics

I just can't believe all the things people say
Prince is surprised and unable to comprehend the various rumors and speculations that people say about him.

Am I black or white? Am I straight or gay?
Prince is asking questions about his own identity and sexuality, perhaps because people have made assumptions about him based on his appearance or music.

Do I believe in God? Do I believe in me? Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince is questioning his own beliefs and values, and trying to distinguish himself from others in a world full of conflict and disagreement.

I can't understand human curiosity Controversy
Prince is frustrated by the way people are always curious about him and other celebrities, even when it leads to unwanted attention or controversy.

Was it good for you? Was I what you wanted me to be? Controversy
Prince is wondering if the people who listen to his music and watch his performances are satisfied with what they see, or if they expect him to be something other than himself.

Do you get high? Does your daddy cry? Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince is asking provocative questions about personal habits and family relationships, perhaps to shock listeners and create controversy.

Do I believe in God? Do I believe in me? (Yeah, yeah) Some people want to die so they can be free I said, life is just a game, we're all just the same Do you want to play? Yeah, oh, yeah Controversy Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince is repeating his earlier questions about beliefs and identity, but then he shifts to an optimistic outlook on life and human connection. He is suggesting that people should not be bound by rules or expectations, but should embrace their freedom and play the game of life together. He repeats the word 'controversy' again to stress how these ideas may provoke different reactions and interpretations.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses As we forgive those who trespass against us Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil For thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory, forever and ever Controversy Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince sings part of the Lord's Prayer, a well-known Christian prayer, but then he adds the word 'controversy' again to suggest that even religion can be a source of debate or conflict. He may be implying that people should focus on the core values of love and forgiveness rather than arguing over religious beliefs or rituals.

Love him, love him, baby Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince is repeating the word 'controversy' as a way of emphasizing that love and desire can also be a contentious and complex topic. He may be urging listeners to embrace their passions despite any external pressures or judgments.

Listen People call me rude, I wish we all were nude I wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rules People call me rude, I wish we all were nude I wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rules People call me rude, I wish we all were nude I wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rules People call me rude, I wish we all were nude I wish there was no black and white, I wish there were no rules Ah, ye, hey Controversy Oh, yeah, controversy
Prince is making a bold statement against social conventions and moral codes that restrict individual freedom and expression. He repeats the idea of nudity and a lack of boundaries as a way of challenging traditional mores and promoting radical self-expression. He concludes with another repetition of the word 'controversy' to suggest that his message will provoke controversy and discourse.

Do I believe in God, do I believe in me? Let me tell ya Some people want to die so they can be free I said life is just a game, we're all just the same Don't ya want to play? Controversy Controversy Controversy Controversy
Prince is asking the same questions again and then gives his own answer to the question of belief in God or the self. He seems to be advising listeners to embrace life and take risks, rather than conforming to societal expectations or limiting oneself through fear of death or other obstacles. He repeats the word 'controversy' as a way of acknowledging that these ideas may not be universally accepted.