Who Sang Raspberry Beret with Prince?

“Raspberry Beret” is a timeless classic song that holds a special place in the discography of the iconic musician Prince. This article explores the question of who sang “Raspberry Beret” with Prince, delving into the collaborative efforts and artistic contributions that brought this beloved track to life.

The Collaborators

“Raspberry Beret” was performed by Prince and the Revolution, his backing band during that era. The Revolution played a pivotal role in shaping Prince’s sound and bringing his musical vision to fruition. Comprised of talented musicians, including Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, Bobby Z., Brown Mark, and Dr. Fink, the Revolution contributed their unique talents and creative input to the recording and performance of “Raspberry Beret.”

The Song’s Sound and Composition

“Raspberry Beret” is a testament to Prince’s musical genius and his ability to seamlessly blend various genres and influences. The song incorporates an array of instruments and sonic elements to create its distinct sound. Notably, the track features the use of stringed instruments, Middle Eastern finger cymbals, and even a harmonica in the extended version. These unconventional choices contribute to the song’s eclectic and captivating nature, showcasing Prince’s innovative approach to music.

The Storytelling in “Raspberry Beret”

Lyrically, “Raspberry Beret” tells a vivid and memorable story. The song revolves around a teenage romance and explores themes of love, youthfulness, and sexual awakening. Prince’s lyrics paint a picture of a distinct encounter with a girl who wears a raspberry-colored beret, symbolizing individuality and uniqueness. The narrative unfolds with a playful and imaginative tone, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and the exhilaration of first love.

Chart Success and Cultural Impact

Upon its release, “Raspberry Beret” achieved significant chart success and solidified Prince’s position as a musical powerhouse. The song reached number one on the Cash Box chart, showcasing its popularity and appeal among listeners. It also peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, further cementing its status as a beloved hit.

Beyond its chart success, “Raspberry Beret” made a lasting cultural impact. The song’s infectious melody, catchy hooks, and relatable storytelling resonated with audiences worldwide. Its popularity transcended boundaries and continues to captivate new generations of music lovers.

The Music Video

The music video for “Raspberry Beret” added another layer of visual storytelling to the song. Directed primarily by Prince himself, the video featured animated sequences created by Drew Takahashi, co-founder of Colossal Pictures. These animations complemented the whimsical and playful nature of the song, enhancing the overall visual experience for viewers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “Raspberry Beret” stands as a collaborative effort between Prince and the Revolution, showcasing their combined talents and creative contributions. The song’s unique sound, captivating storytelling, and chart success have cemented its place in music history. With its enduring popularity and cultural impact, “Raspberry Beret” continues to be celebrated as one of Prince’s most beloved and iconic songs.

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FAQs

Who sang “Raspberry Beret” with Prince?

Prince sang “Raspberry Beret” with his backing band, the Revolution. The Revolution consisted of talented musicians, including Wendy Melvoin, Lisa Coleman, Bobby Z., Brown Mark, and Dr. Fink, who played a crucial role in the recording and performance of the song.

What instruments were used in “Raspberry Beret”?



“Raspberry Beret” incorporated various instruments to create its unique sound. The song featured stringed instruments, Middle Eastern finger cymbals, and even a harmonica in the extended version. These instrument choices added depth and richness to the composition.

What is the story behind “Raspberry Beret”?

“Raspberry Beret” tells the story of a teenage romance and explores themes of love and sexual awakening. The song narrates a memorable encounter with a girl who wears a raspberry-colored beret, symbolizing individuality and uniqueness.

Did “Raspberry Beret” achieve chart success?

Yes, “Raspberry Beret” achieved chart success. It reached number one on the Cash Box chart and peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. The song’s infectious melody and relatable lyrics resonated with audiences, contributing to its chart success.

Who directed the music video for “Raspberry Beret”?

The music video for “Raspberry Beret” was primarily directed by Prince himself. The video also featured animated sequences created by Drew Takahashi, co-founder of Colossal Pictures. These animations added a whimsical and imaginative element to the visual storytelling of the song.

Is “Raspberry Beret” a popular song in Prince’s live performances?



Yes, “Raspberry Beret” remained a perennial favorite in Prince’s live performances throughout his career. The song’s catchy hooks and energetic rhythm made it a crowd-pleaser, ensuring its inclusion in many of his concert sets.

What album is “Raspberry Beret” from?

“Raspberry Beret” is the lead single from Prince & the Revolution’s 1985 album, “Around the World in a Day.” The song’s success helped propel the album to commercial success and further solidified Prince’s status as a musical icon.

What is the cultural impact of “Raspberry Beret”?

“Raspberry Beret” has had a significant cultural impact. The song’s infectious melody, relatable lyrics, and memorable storytelling resonated with audiences worldwide. Its popularity transcended boundaries and continues to captivate new generations of music lovers, contributing to its enduring status as one of Prince’s most beloved and iconic songs.