“Let’s Go Crazy” is one of Prince’s most famous and energetic songs, released in July 1984 with “Erotic City” on the B-side (“Take Me with U” in the UK) as the opening track and second single from his critically acclaimed album and film Purple Rain. The song became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and becoming an enduring anthem of the 1980s. Known for its electric guitar riffs, gospel-like intro, and explosive energy, “Let’s Go Crazy” is a celebration of life, resilience, and defiance in the face of hardship.
Lyrically, “Let’s Go Crazy” combines religious imagery with themes of existential struggle. Prince begins the song with a spoken sermon-like introduction, where he references the “afterlife” and the idea of trying to “keep on the path” amidst the difficulties of life. The metaphor of “going crazy” suggests living fully and freely, without succumbing to the pressures or despair of everyday struggles. The line “Are we gonna let the elevator bring us down? Oh no, let’s go!” implies a refusal to give in to negativity or oppression, with “the elevator” being interpreted as a metaphor for life’s challenges or even death.
Musically, “Let’s Go Crazy” is a high-energy rock-funk track with elements of gospel and psychedelic rock. The song starts with a church organ and a sermon-like spoken intro, which builds into a full-blown guitar-driven anthem. Prince’s vocals shift between intense spoken-word segments, soulful singing, and ecstatic screams, creating a dynamic and electrifying atmosphere. The song features prominent guitar work, with Prince delivering a powerful and memorable guitar solo toward the end of the track, showcasing his virtuosity as a guitarist. The fusion of rock, funk, and pop elements, along with Prince’s blistering guitar solos and rhythmic grooves, made “Let’s Go Crazy” a crossover hit that appealed to both pop and rock audiences.
“Let’s Go Crazy” was a huge commercial success, becoming Prince’s second No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S., following “When Doves Cry.” It also topped the Dance Club Songs chart and became a major hit internationally, reaching the top 10 in several countries. The song’s infectious energy, along with its association with the Purple Rain film, made it one of Prince’s most iconic and enduring tracks. The album Purple Rain itself became one of the best-selling albums of all time, and “Let’s Go Crazy” played a key role in its success.
“Let’s Go Crazy” is prominently featured in the opening scenes of the Purple Rain film, where Prince’s character, “The Kid,” performs the song in a nightclub. The live performance sets the tone for the film’s themes of struggle, personal growth, and the power of music. The song’s explosive energy and defiant message perfectly encapsulate the spirit of both the film and Prince’s larger artistic vision.
“Let’s Go Crazy” is often regarded as one of Prince’s signature songs and a defining track of the 1980s. Its blend of rock, funk, and soul, combined with Prince’s electrifying guitar work and charismatic vocal delivery, made it a standout in his extensive catalog. The song continues to be a favorite in live performances and has become an anthem of empowerment, joy, and resistance.