Prince Remembered: A Look Back at the Genius of the Purple One

On April 21, the music industry took yet another massive hit when it lost another icon as Prince Rogers Nelson passed away.

The legendary singer-songwriter left a legacy that spanned four decades and a catalog of songs that is nothing short of genius.

In memory of The Purple One, here is a look back at a few TV appearances from over the few decades.

1982: Prince performance “Controversy” at the Capitol Theatre in New Jersey.

This video shows off Prince’s guitar prowess as he stalks the stage like a panther in a cage.

Watch the full concert here.

1985: Prince sweeps the American Music Award

Back when you can have a category called “Best Black Single” could be introduced by white people with a straight face. “When Doves Cry” beat out Tina Turner and Billy Ocean. And Prince only says two words.

1985: Prince wins the Oscar for Best Original Song Score

Prince beat out the Muppets for Purple Rain. Wearing a sparkly purple cape and hood set, he brought Lisa and Wendy out with him to accept the award. Prince is humbled and thanks God in his short acceptance speech

1990: Prince receives the American Music Awards Achievement Award

Sporting a ponytail, a humble is greeted by a screaming crowd who adore him.

“Creating new music is like meeting a new friend. I try to create what people have never seen before. I like surprises. I hope you do to.”

2004: Prince & friends perform “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”

The Traveling Wilbury’s Tom Petty, Steve Winwood and Jeff Lynne join Prince at the 2004 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony.

2007: Super Bowl XLI Halftime Show

The Purple Ones performs an amazing set in the pouring rain wearing a head wrap and a teal suit. He played his hits, as well as Jimi Hendrix and the Foo Fighters. By the time he got to “Purple Rain,” the world was his. Thus the power of Prince.

“He’s not promoting himself. He’s just playing music…Just one performer shaking the entire world.”

2015: Prince at the Golden Globes

The Funky One hands “Glory” from the movie Selma a trophy in this more recent television appearance

2016: Final performance?

A small cell phone glimpse of what was one of his final performances. Filmed in Atlanta in April 2016

 

We weren’t supposed to use phones at Prince in ATL last week, but I couldn’t resist. Last performance of Purple Rain pic.twitter.com/6FjkJTksJO

— Jake Reuse (@ReuseRecruiting) April 21, 2016

And finally…

Here is Prince doing a cover of “Honky Tonk Woman.”

If you need me, I’ll be placing Tom Waits and Iggy Pop in safe house wallpapered with bubble wrap.