Prince is known as one of the biggest music legends of all time. He was a singer, songwriter, producer, actor, and musician who could play many instruments. Over a career that lasted more than 40 years, he released dozens of albums and sold more than 100 million records around the world.
But Prince did more than create hits for himself. He also wrote songs for other artists, and many of those tracks became huge successes. In some cases, fans never realized that Prince was the creative force behind them.
Here are some famous songs that were actually written or co-written by Prince.
Alicia Keys’ “How Come You Don’t Call Me”
Many people know this song from Alicia Keys’ first album, Songs in A Minor, released in 2001. Her version became a fan favorite and showed off her powerful voice.
What many listeners do not know is that Prince wrote and recorded the song years earlier. His original version, titled How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?, appeared as the B-side to his 1982 hit single 1999.
The Bangles’ “Manic Monday”
“Manic Monday” became one of the biggest songs of the 1980s. The catchy tune helped The Bangles reach a wider audience and remains one of their most famous hits.
Prince wrote the song himself. He first planned to give it to Apollonia 6, a girl group he created. Later, he decided to pass it along to The Bangles, and the rest is music history.
Sheena Easton’s “Sugar Walls”
“Sugar Walls” became one of Sheena Easton’s most talked-about songs. Its bold lyrics and unique style made it stand out when it was released.
Prince wrote the song and brought his signature sound to the track. Even though his name was not always front and center, his influence was easy to hear.
Chaka Khan’s “I Feel for You”
Many fans connect this song with Chaka Khan, whose version became a massive hit in the 1980s.
However, Prince wrote and recorded the song first. It originally appeared on his self-titled album released in 1979. Chaka Khan later transformed it into a chart-topping success that introduced the song to a new audience.
Sinéad O’Connor’s “Nothing Compares 2 U”
This emotional ballad became one of the most memorable songs of the 1990s. Sinéad O’Connor’s powerful performance turned it into a worldwide hit.
The song was actually written by Prince several years earlier. He created it for The Family, a group signed to his Paisley Park label. While the original version had a smaller audience, O’Connor’s recording made the song famous around the globe.
Morris Day and The Time’s “Jungle Love”
“Jungle Love” became a standout funk hit and remains closely linked to the sound of the 1980s.
The song was co-written by Prince, Morris Day, and Jesse Johnson. It showcased the fun and energetic style that Prince often brought to the artists he worked with.
Cyndi Lauper’s “When You Were Mine”
Cyndi Lauper helped introduce this song to many listeners through her own version.
Before that, Prince had already recorded it for his 1980 album Dirty Mind. The song’s mix of heartbreak and attitude made it a favorite among both artists’ fans.
Stevie Nicks’ “Stand Back”
“Stand Back” is one of Stevie Nicks’ best-known solo songs. Its driving beat and memorable sound helped it become a major hit.
Prince played a role in creating the track. Stevie Nicks has said that his song Little Red Corvette inspired her while she was writing it, and Prince later contributed to the recording process.
The Family’s “Nothing Compares 2 U”
Before becoming a global hit for Sinéad O’Connor, this song had another life.
Prince wrote it for The Family’s 1985 album. While that version never reached the same level of fame, it showed how Prince often created great songs for artists working under his label.
Apollonia 6’s Lost Chance at “Manic Monday”
Apollonia 6 may not have recorded the version that became famous, but they were originally connected to the song.
Prince had planned the track for the group before changing direction. It is one of the most interesting “what if” stories in pop music history.
Prince’s Original “I Feel for You”
Many people first heard the song through Chaka Khan, but Prince’s original version deserves attention too.
His recording introduced the melody and lyrics that later became a major hit. It is another example of how his songwriting reached far beyond his own albums.
Prince’s Original “When You Were Mine”
Prince’s version of this song became popular among critics and devoted fans.
Over time, other artists recorded their own takes, helping the song reach even more listeners. Its lasting appeal shows the strength of Prince’s songwriting.
The Story Behind “How Come U Don’t Call Me Anymore?”
Prince often placed great songs on B-sides, and this track is a perfect example.
Even though it was not the main single, the song left a strong impression. Years later, Alicia Keys helped introduce it to a new generation.
Prince’s Gift for Sharing Songs
Many artists keep their best material for themselves. Prince often did the opposite.
He regularly wrote songs for friends, collaborators, and performers he admired. Because of this, his influence can be heard across many different genres and decades.
Why Prince’s Songwriting Legacy Still Matters
Prince released dozens of albums and created countless songs throughout his life. Yet some of his greatest contributions came through the music he gave to others.
From “Manic Monday” to “Nothing Compares 2 U,” these tracks show how deeply he shaped modern music. Even when he was not the person singing the song, his creativity was often at the heart of the hit.
Prince’s name may not appear on every record, but his impact is impossible to miss. His songwriting talent helped create some of the most beloved songs in pop music history, and many fans are still discovering just how many famous hits started with him.
Featured Image Source: Instagram/prince
