Day 2 in Black Fashion History honors "His Royal Purpleness": Prince
Prince Rogers Nelson, or simply Prince, is one of the greatest musicians of our time. With his sky-high falsetto voice and sweat-inducing music (on the dance floor and the bedroom), he inspired many artists of the past and current generation through his music.
Since his debut in 1978, Prince released 39 studio albums and was nominated for 32 Grammys, winning 7. A musical genius, Prince played several instruments including guitar, piano, drums and sang in a variety of ranges. He was also responsible for introducing the world to groups like Vanity 6, Sheila E., and The Time whom he produced and mentored.
His androgynous style became his signature look and solidified him as a fashion icon. Among his standards
was black eyeliner, perfectly groomed facial hair, high heeled boots and silky suits decked out in rhinestones & sequins. And we can’t forget about that perfect head of hair whether in a blown out fro or fresh perm.
Prince was never one to shy away from taking risks or creating controversy. He performed in ass-less chaps and posed nude for his album covers. In the 90s when wronged by his record label he changed his name to the unpronounceable “love symbol” and performed with the word “SLAVE” on his face.
His untimely death in 2016 was mourned the world over, but his legacy lives on. Artists like Janelle Monaé, Miguel, & Beyoncé all sight Prince as having a huge impact on their music career and sound.
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