Kiss

Prince's iconic song 'Kiss' is a celebration of authenticity and connection beyond superficial qualities. The lyrics convey a message that contradicts the typical standards of attraction and romance that are often emphasized in popular culture. Prince challenges the notion that beauty, wealth, or coolness are prerequisites for love and instead focuses on the genuine desire for someone's time and affection. The song's chorus, 'You don't have to be rich to be my girl, you don't have to be cool to rule my world,' serves as a catchy and empowering mantra that rejects materialism and societal expectations in favor of a more personal and intimate connection.

The verses of 'Kiss' further emphasize individuality and personal connection. Prince encourages his love interest to be themselves, assuring them that they don't need to conform to certain behaviors or possess specific experiences to be appealing. The song suggests that a mutual understanding and the willingness to share one's time are far more valuable than any external attribute. This message is underscored by the funky, minimalist instrumentation of the track, which strips away the excess to focus on the core elements of rhythm and melody, much like the song's lyrical content strips away superficial qualities to focus on what truly matters in a relationship.

Prince's playful instructions, such as 'Act your age, mama (not your shoe size),' add a touch of humor and further reinforce the theme of authenticity. The reference to 'Little Girl Wendy's parade' is a nod to Wendy Melvoin of The Revolution, Prince's backing band at the time, and serves to personalize the song. 'Kiss' is not just a pop hit; it's a statement about the importance of being true to oneself and valuing genuine connections over societal standards.