Equal parts soundtrack and statement, blending rock, funk, pop and gospel into Prince's commercial breakthrough. The title track and 'When Doves Cry' are era-defining. A dazzling display of a singular talent. Released in 1984 — a solid middle chapter.
On vinyl: The original pressing is often easy to find second-hand in good condition.
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Tracks from this album on our lists
- When Doves Cry on Best Songs of the 1980s, Best Songs of the 1980s, Best Pop Songs of All Time, Best Pop Songs of All Time, Best 1980s Pop Songs
- Purple Rain on Best Soul & R&B Songs of All Time, Best 1980s Pop Songs
We don't reproduce full tracklists — only the songs from this record we've featured in our best-of lists.
More from Prince — where to go next
If you have Purple Rain, these are the Prince records worth reaching for next.
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1
Sign o' the Times1987 · PopStart here
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2
Dirty Mind1980 · PopClassic
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3
19991982 · PopClassic
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4
Purple Rain1984 · you're viewing this oneClassic
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5
Around the World in a Day1985 · PopClassic
If you like Purple Rain, try
ThrillerMichael Jackson
Like a VirginMadonna
Private DancerTina Turner
Make It BigWham!
Hunting High and Lowa-ha
She's So UnusualCyndi Lauper