Born and raised in Minneapolis, Prince signed a record deal with Warner Bros. Records at the age of 19, soon releasing the albums For You (1978) and Prince (1979). He went on to achieve critical success with the influential albums Dirty Mind (1980), Controversy (1981), and 1999 (1982). His sixth album, Purple Rain (1984), was recorded with his new backing band the Revolution, and was also the soundtrack to the film of the same name in which he starred. Purple Rain garnered continued success for Prince and was a major commercial achievement, spending six consecutive months atop the Billboard 200 chart. The soundtrack also won Prince the Academy Award for Best Original Song Score. After disbanding the Revolution, Prince released the album Sign o' the Times (1987), widely hailed by critics as the greatest work of his career. In the midst of a contractual dispute with Warner Bros. in 1993, he changed his stage name to the unpronounceable symbol logo. Hollow circle above downward arrow crossed with a curlicued horn-shaped symbol and then a short bar (known to fans as the "Love Symbol") and was often referred to as The Artist Formerly Known as Prince (or TAFKAP) or simply The Artist.
After signing with Arista Records in 1998, Prince reverted to his original name in 2000. Over the next decade, six of his albums entered the U.S. top 10 charts. In April 2016, at the age of 57, Prince died after accidentally overdosing on fentanyl at his Paisley Park home and recording studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota. He was a prolific musician who released 39 albums during his life, with a vast array of unreleased material left in a custom-built bank vault underneath his home after his death, including fully completed albums and over 50 finished music videos. He also released songs under multiple pseudonyms during his life, as well as writing songs that were made popular after being covered by other musicians, most notably "Nothing Compares 2 U" by Sinéad O'Connor and "Manic Monday" by the Bangles. Estimates of the complete number of songs written by Prince range anywhere from 500 to well over 1,000. Released posthumously, his demo albums Piano and a Microphone 1983 (2018) and Originals (2019) both received critical acclaim.
Prince sold over 100 million records worldwide, ranking him among the best-selling music artists of all time. His awards included the Grammy President's Merit Award, the American Music Awards for Achievement and of Merit, the Billboard Icon Award, an Academy Award, and a Golden Globe Award. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2006, and the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame in 2016, and was inducted twice into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame in 2022.
Full Wikipedia article: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince_(musician)
Studio albums
For You (1978)
Prince (1979)
Dirty Mind (1980)
Controversy (1981)
1999 (1982)
Purple Rain (1984)
Around the World in a Day (1985)
Parade (1986)
Sign o' the Times (1987)
Lovesexy (1988)
Batman (1989)
Graffiti Bridge (1990)
Diamonds and Pearls (1991)
Love Symbol (1992)
Come (1994)
The Black Album (1994)
The Gold Experience (1995)
Chaos and Disorder (1996)
Emancipation (1996)
Crystal Ball (1998)
The Truth (1998)
The Vault: Old Friends 4 Sale (1999)
Rave Un2 the Joy Fantastic (1999)
The Rainbow Children (2001)
One Nite Alone... (2002)
Xpectation (2003)
N·E·W·S (2003)
The Chocolate Invasion (2004)
The Slaughterhouse (2004)
Musicology (2004)
3121 (2006)
Planet Earth (2007)
Lotusflow3r (2009)
MPLSound (2009)
20Ten (2010)
Plectrumelectrum (2014)
Art Official Age (2014)
HITnRUN Phase One (2015)
HITnRUN Phase Two (2015)
Posthumous releases:
Piano and a Microphone 1983 (2018)
Originals (2019)
Welcome 2 America (2021)
Prince also released two albums credited to Madhouse, three albums credited to the New Power Generation, and one credited to the N.P.G. Orchestra:
Madhouse:
8 (1987)
16 (1987)
The New Power Generation:
Goldnigga (1993)
Exodus (1995)
Newpower Soul (1998)
The N.P.G. Orchestra:
Kamasutra (1997)
For Serbian singer Princ, please use Princ.
Why Do You Lie
Prince Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
When I know I would die for you
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie to you
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
Don't cry baby girl I know love hurts
But, the fact still remain
That's how love work
Everytime I estimate your beautiness
I can see the true value
Of what it's worth
I elevate my mind when I puff purp
Instead of doubting me
You should trust first
Anytime that I see you upset
I do things to make you happy
But, nothing works
It's a hassle when you cry
But, I settle and provide
I'm your knight in shining armor
You're the apple in my eye
But, when you regularly complain
It's a battle to comply
Then you ask me questions
And, I never could reply
And then, this power come upon us
Like the devil in disguise
I demand my respect
But, something telling me is pride
I love to come together
But, never to collide
So, I had to take my ego
And, set it to the side
Big Bro told me
"Boy you better stay committed"
Everybody has a role
So, you better take position
So, I put in the hard work
And, I had a great ambition
Taking care of family
But, yet they think I'm tricking
Not "Otis Williams"
But, I have to go "The Distants"
And, I have to do the most
Just to try to make you listen
But, everything I say
It's like you always take offensive
And, you always down my throat
Because you say I ain't attentive
They say it don't cost
Just to pay attention
Apprehended by this love
But, I ain't convicted
But, I have to plead the fifth
So, if love was a charge
I would take the sentence
So, deep in love with you
Girl I can't resist it
If you can't fully compensate
Then, I will pay the difference
Before I followed footsteps
I rather make a difference
Go to school and, pay tuition
Just so, we can make a living Hey!!!
Why do I lie to you
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
When I know I would die for you
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie to you
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
When I know I would die for you
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
Broken heart and teardrops
Told her I was on my way
I made near stop
I hate the pain I inflict
When my lips lie
You reflect on the past
And, you still cry
When I told my ex love will die
I don't know if I would change
But, I will try
Even though we fall girl
We still rise
Don't live the life of "Jay & Bey"
But, we still "Roc"
Travelled from the lowest slopes
To the hilltops
And, even when you land girl
You still fly
They say that we're
The Young and The Restless
But, if I am wrong
Please come and correct me
I'm under discretion
Trying to handle things by myself
Without having to run
Your direction
I starve for progression
Smoke just to calm my depression
I can tell
When you cussing and yelling
All you really need
Is some love and affection!
Tell em'! Hey!!!
Why do I lie to you
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
When I know I would die for you
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie to you
(Why do I lie to you)
(Why do I lie to you)
When I know I would die for you
I don't know why why why why
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
Why do I lie why do I lie
Why do I lie why do I lie
When I know I would die
The lyrics to Prince's song "Why Do You Lie" delve into the complex emotions and struggles within a relationship. The singer questions why they consistently lie to their partner despite knowing that they would do anything for them. The repetition of this question reflects their confusion and introspection.
The first paragraph expresses the singer's bewilderment at their own behavior. They acknowledge their willingness to make sacrifices and even die for their partner, yet they still find themselves lying. This line suggests inner turmoil and a lack of understanding regarding their motives for dishonesty.
In the second paragraph, the singer reassures their partner, presumably in a moment of vulnerability. They acknowledge that love can be painful, but it is an integral part of relationships. They emphasize their efforts to appreciate their partner's beauty and value, even using substances like marijuana to enhance their perception. However, despite their attempts, they struggle to make their partner happy, and their attempts seem futile. This may indicate a lack of communication or understanding between the two.
The third paragraph delves into the power dynamics within the relationship. The singer describes themselves as a protector and a provider, comparing themselves to a knight in shining armor. However, they also perceive their partner's regular complaints as an ongoing battle. This conflict highlights the challenges of meeting each other's expectations and maintaining individuality within a relationship. The singer's struggle with their own pride and demands for respect further complicates the dynamics at play.
The final paragraph delves into the singer's aspirations for personal growth and making a positive impact. They mention education and financial stability as means to create a better future for both themselves and their partner. The singer feels the need to defend themselves against accusations of dishonesty, emphasizing their commitment to their partner, even if they fall short at times. The desire for understanding and affection from their partner is evident, as they acknowledge that actions and affection are more important than words.
In conclusion, Prince's "Why Do You Lie" explores the complex emotions and internal conflicts faced within a relationship. The singer questions their own motives for lying and grapples with how to navigate love's challenges. The lyrics highlight the need for better communication, understanding, and self-reflection to sustain a healthy and fulfilling partnership.
Line by Line Meaning
Why do I lie to you
I question my own actions of deceit towards you
(Why do I lie to you)
I repeatedly question my own actions of deceit towards you
(Why do I lie to you)
I continuously question my own actions of deceit towards you
When I know I would die for you
Despite my lies, I am deeply devoted to you
I don't know why why why why
I am unsure of the reasons behind my lies
Don't cry baby girl I know love hurts
I understand that love can be painful
But, the fact still remain
However, the truth remains
That's how love work
That's the nature of love
Everytime I estimate your beautiness
Whenever I evaluate your beauty
I can see the true value
I can discern the real worth
Of what it's worth
Of its importance
I elevate my mind when I puff purp
I enhance my thoughts when I smoke marijuana
Instead of doubting me
Rather than questioning me
You should trust first
You should have faith in me initially
Anytime that I see you upset
Whenever I witness your distress
I do things to make you happy
I take actions to bring you joy
But, nothing works
Yet, none of it seems to succeed
It's a hassle when you cry
It's burdensome when you weep
But, I settle and provide
However, I resolve and fulfill my responsibilities
I'm your knight in shining armor
I am your protective and heroic figure
You're the apple in my eye
You are the most cherished person in my life
But, when you regularly complain
But, when you consistently express dissatisfaction
It's a battle to comply
It becomes a struggle to meet your expectations
Then you ask me questions
Then you inquire of me
And, I never could reply
And, I am always unable to provide a response
And then, this power come upon us
And then, this force impacts us
Like the devil in disguise
Like a hidden evil influence
I demand my respect
I assert my need for admiration
But, something telling me is pride
However, something tells me it is arrogance
I love to come together
I enjoy being united
But, never to collide
But, never to clash or conflict
So, I had to take my ego
So, I had to put aside my pride
And, set it to the side
And, keep it out of the way
Big Bro told me
An older brother advised me
"Boy you better stay committed"
"You better remain dedicated, boy"
Everybody has a role
Each person has a part to play
So, you better take position
So, you should assume your role
So, I put in the hard work
So, I invest the effort
And, I had a great ambition
And, I possess a strong desire for success
Taking care of family
Supporting and providing for my loved ones
But, yet they think I'm tricking
But, still they believe I am deceiving them
Not "Otis Williams"
Not like the musician Otis Williams
But, I have to go "The Distants"
But, I have to go my own separate way
And, I have to do the most
And, I have to put in the greatest effort
Just to try to make you listen
Simply to attempt to gain your attention
But, everything I say
Yet, everything I express
It's like you always take offensive
You always interpret it as an attack
And, you always down my throat
And, you always criticize and challenge me
Because you say I ain't attentive
Because you claim I am not attentive
They say it don't cost
They say it doesn't require payment
Just to pay attention
Simply to give one's focus and consideration
Apprehended by this love
Caught and affected by this love
But, I ain't convicted
But, I am not convinced of its authenticity
But, I have to plead the fifth
But, I have to invoke my right to remain silent
So, if love was a charge
So, if love was a crime
I would take the sentence
I would willingly accept the punishment
So, deep in love with you
So deeply in love with you
Girl I can't resist it
I cannot resist it, my dear
If you can't fully compensate
If you cannot completely make up for
Then, I will pay the difference
Then, I will cover the remainder
Before I followed footsteps
Before I followed in someone's path
I rather make a difference
I would rather make a significant impact
Go to school and, pay tuition
Attend school and pay for education
Just so, we can make a living Hey!!!
Just so we can support ourselves, hey!
Broken heart and teardrops
A heart that is shattered and tears shed
Told her I was on my way
Informed her that I was coming soon
I made near stop
I made a brief stop
I hate the pain I inflict
I despise the suffering I cause
When my lips lie
When I speak falsely
You reflect on the past
You think about the past
And, you still cry
And, you still weep
When I told my ex love will die
When I told my former lover that love will end
I don't know if I would change
I am uncertain if I would alter my actions
But, I will try
But, I will make an attempt
Even though we fall girl
Despite our downfalls, girl
We still rise
We still persevere and succeed
Don't live the life of "Jay & Bey"
Don't live the life of Jay-Z and Beyoncé
But, we still "Roc"
But, we still triumph and excel
Travelled from the lowest slopes
Moved from the lowest points
To the hilltops
To the highest peaks
And, even when you land girl
And, even when you settle, girl
You still fly
You still soar and succeed
They say that we're
They say that we are
The Young and The Restless
Youthful and full of urgency
But, if I am wrong
But, if I am mistaken
Please come and correct me
Please come and point out my errors
I'm under discretion
I am being cautious and thoughtful
Trying to handle things by myself
Attempting to manage things independently
Without having to run
Without needing to seek
Your direction
Your guidance or assistance
I starve for progression
I desire advancement and growth
Smoke just to calm my depression
I use smoking as a means to alleviate my sadness
I can tell
I can perceive
When you cussing and yelling
When you curse and shout
All you really need
What you truly require
Is some love and affection!
Is some love and care!
Tell em'! Hey!!!
Let them know! Hey!
Lyrics © O/B/O DistroKid
Written by: Emmitte Prince
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind