The Experience of Prince
Image by Derrel R. Todd
I wasn't the biggest fan of Prince. I don't own any of his cds and I don't have all the lyrics to any of his songs memorized. But catch me on the chorus though. He was such an amazing artist. In a category of his own. Although I wasn't a super fan, he impacted my life and I'm mourning with millions of fans the death of a great talent. I reflected on my experience with him throughout my life and crossed upon a few things that stood out.
With lyrics like, "You're the reason that God made a girl." and "Cause honey this kind of beauty, the kind that comes from inside." The Most Beautiful Girl in the World is a song that left a lasting impression on me. It was used to sow a seed in my early years to embrace my femininity and the unique inner qualities that made me beautiful. As a teen my favorite pastime was sitting in my room listening to music, analyzing the lyrics, and getting lost daydreaming. Is that weird? I know, I'm not the only one who actually enjoyed getting sent to their room.
His wardrobe. The colors. Styles. Hair. He was such an unapologetic force. His flashy outfits were a huge part of his brand. His style was not questioned. It was him. And we loved him for it.
“There are no accidents. And if there are, it’s up to us to look at them as something else. And that bravery is what creates new flowers.”
Prince, thank you! Your song made me feel beautiful. Your fashion sense encouraged me to own my style. And your work will continue to inspire millions to come.
May we all live with bravery.
RIP, Prince!
June 7, 1958 – April 21, 2016