“Kiss” is one of Prince’s most iconic songs, released in February 1986 with “♥ or $” on the B-side as the lead single from his album Parade, which also served as the soundtrack to his film Under the Cherry Moon. Written and produced by Prince, the song blends funk, rock, and minimalist pop with a playful and seductive energy that showcases his innovative approach to music. It became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Prince a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
“Kiss” was originally written by Prince as a short, acoustic demo for the funk band Mazarati, who were signed to his Paisley Park Records label. After hearing their reworked version, Prince decided to reclaim the song, stripped it back to its essentials, and added his distinctive falsetto vocals. The minimalist production, combined with its funk-driven rhythm, set “Kiss” apart from other tracks of the era. Prince later included the song on Parade, showcasing his ability to reinvent his own material into something groundbreaking.
The lyrics of “Kiss” are a cheeky and sensual celebration of love, attraction, and simplicity. Prince sings about the unimportance of material wealth or status in a relationship, focusing instead on genuine connection and physical chemistry. Lines like, “You don’t have to be rich to be my girl / You don’t have to be cool to rule my world,” emphasize the song’s message of equality and authenticity in romance. The playful and flirtatious tone, combined with Prince’s falsetto delivery, makes the lyrics both seductive and empowering.
“Kiss” is a funk-pop masterpiece characterized by its minimalist production. The song features a stripped-down arrangement with a prominent funk guitar riff, sparse drum machine beats, and a subtle synth line. This simplicity allows Prince’s falsetto vocals and dynamic delivery to take center stage. The song’s funky rhythm and infectious groove make it instantly recognizable, and its innovative production influenced countless artists and genres. Prince’s ability to create a full, vibrant sound with minimal instrumentation highlights his genius as a producer and performer.
“Kiss” was a commercial triumph, becoming Prince’s third No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. It also topped the R&B chart and reached the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, where it peaked at No. 6. The song’s success helped drive the popularity of the Parade album, which became a major international hit.
“Kiss” earned Prince and The Revolution a Grammy Award in 1987 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. The song is frequently included in “greatest songs” lists, including Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, where it is celebrated for its innovation and enduring appeal.