Prince, “Nothing Compares 2 U” | Throwback Thursday 💎

Taking it back to the 80s, we look to Prince on Throwback Thursday (TBT) with the original recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U.” 

Throwback Thursday (TBT) looks back at songs that have truly captivated or stuck with me for whatever reason.  In some cases, there’s a compelling story or memorable happening behind the fangirling.  For the fourth Throwback Thursday, dated April 23, 2020, we look to Prince and his original studio version of his song that Sinead O’Connor made a classic, “Nothing Compares 2 U”.

On April 21, 2016, the world lost an icon.  The death of Prince ranks among the most shocking in entertainment history.  Part of that is because icons truly seem immortal. While the multitalented, versatile pop, rock, and R&B musician was incredibly prolific throughout his career, it’s still sad, four years later, knowing that there will be no more ‘brand-new’ music from Prince.  That said, he left a vault full of unreleased music, hence why the sole studio recording of “Nothing Compares 2 U,” from 1984, sees the light of day.

When “Nothing Compares 2 U” was released as a single in 2018, Matt Miller of Esquire Magazine described it as “fucking incredible” – I agree! The original is indeed EPIC, exemplifying the icon at his best.  His vocal tone is distinct and pure, perfectly suited for his own melody.  The overall vocal performance is nuanced, filled with emotion and personality.  The falsetto – magnificent.  Adding to the allure is the production, namely the beefy guitars, pummeling drums, the soulful saxophone solo (Eric Leeds), and the supporting vocals backing the masterful lead.  Fittingly, “Nothing Compares 2 U” concludes Prince’s 2019 posthumous album, Originals.  Again, what better way to throwback than with The Purple One?

Prince • Originals • Warner • Release: 2019

Throwback Thursday No. 4: Prince, “Nothing Compares 2 U” [Photo Credits: Brent Faulkner, kalhh, The Musical Hype, Pixabay, Prettysleepy, Warner]