Prince was a musical phenomenon, excelling as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. While proficient on various instruments, his guitar skills were particularly extraordinary. How did Prince develop such mastery? While there isn’t a definitive roadmap of his learning process, we can glean insights from interviews, anecdotes, and his musical journey.
Prince’s dedication to music began in his childhood. He taught himself to play various instruments, including the piano and guitar, largely by ear. This innate musicality and relentless practice were foundational to his development. He immersed himself in diverse genres, from rock and funk to pop and soul, absorbing influences that shaped his unique sound.
Bandmates offer glimpses into his approach to guitar solos. Keyboardist Morris Hayes recalls Prince advising him to meticulously plan solos: “Write it out, think it out… so you can play it again.” This reveals a thoughtful, structured approach beyond improvisation.
Shelby J, a backing vocalist, highlights the importance of expression: Prince would “make that ugly face,” contorting his features to enhance the feeling and delivery of each note. This emphasizes the physical and emotional connection Prince had with his instrument. Shelby J also observed Prince vocalizing the sounds of his guitar playing, showcasing his deep understanding of the relationship between sound and physical technique. This may have been a method he used to develop his technique, by mimicking sounds he wanted to achieve on the guitar.
Prince’s relentless work ethic and constant experimentation fueled his progress. He wasn’t afraid to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, continually refining his skills. While natural talent played a role, it was his unwavering dedication to practice and his innovative spirit that propelled him to virtuosity. While the exact details of his learning journey remain somewhat mysterious, the available evidence points to a combination of natural talent, dedicated practice, and a deep passion for music as the key ingredients in Prince’s guitar mastery. His approach underscores the importance of deliberate practice, mindful expression, and constant exploration in achieving musical excellence. The upcoming posthumous album, Welcome 2 America, offers another opportunity to experience the brilliance of Prince’s guitar playing. This album, originally shelved in 2010, provides further insight into his ever-evolving musicality.
