In the 80s, Prince had a song with this title, and I use to love to listen to it, though it wasn’t music If I was honest, my mom would have let me listen. Maybe that’s why 14-year-old me was so excited to sneak into the theater to see Purple Rain with my friend and her mother. It was my first R-rated movie and my exposure to this incredible musician and artist.

Was his music controversial,? Of course it was. That is why it connected with so many people. He was constantly reinventing sounds and even himself at times to fit in what he wanted to be. There are things about his life that were obviously troubled, because some say he struggled with addictions. It doesn’t matter to me, because I do not know his intimate struggles. I would imagine the life of a super star is difficult.

Nearly 39 years later, I’m still a huge fan of “Prince.” That fact may never change, but I think what I love most about him is that he’s real. He never apologized for who he was or what he believed in. He made music, loved doing what he was doing and never tried to step on other people’s toes unless they attempted to take away his creativity or rights.

If we are not true to ourselves at all times, even when the topic is controversial, we are failing. People will not always agree with us, but that should not matter. Speak up for the things you believe in, even if you are the only one speaking up. Stand up for what you believe in, even if you are the only one standing. Be okay with a little controversy in your life. Don’t be vulgar, don’t be rude, do everything with kindness, but always stand up for the right things. If it matters enough to you, you can change the outcome of the future. It only takes one person to make a difference.

Prince has been labeled as “One of a Kind” artist by most people. He stood out because he wanted to change things in the music world. He never stuck to one music genre. His song “Controversy” states things by asking questions that others were asking about the artist himself, and his reply was as if to say, what if I am all of those things, and what if I’m not. Don’t label me, just accept me or don’t. It’s your choice.

The art work in the photo above is something my daughter Krystyn John painted for me on an album. She does repurposing of Old LP’s with fresh new art! Her art is incredible. You can check out her Instagram for more cool art: https://instagram.com/rodneytheunicorn?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==

©2023 Marsha L. Brown

You can access the music video and hear the song “Controversy” on Youtube at the link below: