In a way no artist had done before, Prince blended funk, soul, disco and pop into infectiously catchy tunes that would still feel fresh if you were only hearing them for the first time today. And, if that wasn’t enough, his live delivery elevated those tracks to another level entirely! With his virtuoso skill and impeccable natural swagger in the spotlight, Prince was simply perfection.

From his self-titled second album, “I Wanna Be Your Lover” was Prince’s first major hit in the US. In this rare footage from 1981, his brimming excitement is palpable as he delivers an incredible nine minute rendition of the track, laying down the choreography, talent and originality that fast made Prince one of the finest live performers on the planet – with ease.

Enjoy below.

Prince | “I Wanna Be Your Lover” [1981]

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