Darkside

Prince's 'Darkside' is a fascinating dive into the experimental and improvisational side of his musical genius. The song's lyrics are more of a dialogue or a set of instructions rather than traditional verses and choruses. This approach highlights Prince's role not just as a performer but as a bandleader and a creative director, guiding his musicians through a spontaneous and raw musical journey. The mention of 'Levi' and 'Michael' suggests a collaborative effort, likely referring to Levi Seacer Jr., a longtime collaborator, and Michael Bland, a drummer known for his work with Prince. This collaborative spirit is a hallmark of Prince's work, emphasizing the importance of each musician's contribution to the overall sound.

The repeated calls for 'change' and 'dog it, Mike' indicate a desire for dynamic shifts and a raw, unpolished feel. This is further emphasized by the instructions to 'come in real strong and play on the cymbals big time loud,' which suggests a break from conventional structure in favor of a more visceral, energetic performance. The song's structure, or lack thereof, is a testament to Prince's willingness to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. This approach is reminiscent of jazz improvisation, where the focus is on the moment and the interaction between musicians rather than a pre-determined arrangement.

The closing lines, 'Greazy, greazy / What are you going to call that one?' and the subsequent discussion about potential titles, underscore the spontaneous and unfinished nature of the track. It feels like a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Prince's creative process, where ideas are fluid and ever-evolving. The mention of 'Something funky this house comes' hints at the funk influences that permeate much of Prince's work, even in its most experimental forms. 'Darkside' is a raw, unfiltered look at the creative process of one of music's most innovative artists, capturing the essence of spontaneity and collaboration that defined much of Prince's career.