Controversy
Prince
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I just can't believe all the things people say Controversy Am I black or white, am I straight or gay? Controversy Do I believe in god, do I believe in me? Controversy Controversy Controversy I can't understand human curiosity Controversy Was it good for you, was I what you wanted me to be? Controversy Do you get high, does your daddy cry? Controversy Controversy Controversy Do I believe in god, do I believe in me? 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 Controversy Controversy 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 Love him, love him baby Controversy Controversy Controversy Oh yeah, yeah, controversy Controversy, oh yeah Controversy 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, yee hoo He he, yeah, controversy Oh yeah, controversy 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? Ooh, ooh Ooh, controversy Ooh, ooh Ooh, controversy Ooh, ooh Ooh, controversy Ooh ooh Controversy
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Written by: Prince Rogers Nelson
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
10 facts about this song
Historical Context"Controversy" was a song born out of Prince's response to his critics and fans who couldn't put him into a box or category. Through this song, he directly addresses his critics and those who tried to dissect his private life.
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Discography Facts"Controversy" is the lead single and title track to Prince's fourth studio album released in 1981.
- Despite its provocative theme, the song reached No. 3 on the R&B chart and No. 70 on the Billboard Hot 100.
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SongcraftIn the song Prince explores the recurring themes of sexuality, religion and media fascination, all entwined in a funky, synth-driven sound.
- The song features an Linn LM-1 drum machine, an instrument that was prominent in many of Prince's songs.
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Pop Culture Influence"Controversy" has been regarded as a defining song for Prince, and it reflects his challenging of societal norms and preconceptions.
- Lyrically, the song is known for its political and social undertones covering topics of race, sexuality, and personal freedom.
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Performances"Controversy" was a staple in Prince's concerts all the way until his last tour, where fans often participated during the chant-like bridge of the song.
- The song was famously performed live on Saturday Night Live in 1981.
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Musical FeaturesIt's notable for its repetitious bass line and synth part, as well as spoken-word chants of the Lord's Prayer in the extended length album version.
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Reception"Controversy" was met critically with praise for its ripe social commentary and originality. It further reinforced Prince's image as a daring and unconventional artist.
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LegacyYears after its release, "Controversy" remains an iconic track in Prince's discography, often covered by other artists including British rock band Franz Ferdinand and Dutch singer and actress Mathilde Santing.
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Sound RecordingThe track was recorded in Prince's home studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota, which would later become Paisley Park Studios.
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Music VideoThe music video for "Controversy" was directed by Bruce Gowers, and features scenes of Prince performing the song with his band. Reflecting the song's themes, the video also features provocative imagery and satirical elements.
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