This Thing Called Life: Prince, Race, Sex, Religion

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Prince was a multifaceted artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. He was known for his eclectic range of styles, from pop to rock to R&B, and his boundary-pushing lyrics and performances. However, his politics and beliefs about God were often shrouded in mystery, and he was known for his reluctance to discuss certain subjects, particularly sex.

In this comprehensive thematic biography, Joseph Vogel delves into the issues that made Prince one of the most unique, controversial, and fascinating artists of the late 20th century. Since his unexpected death in 2016, Prince has been recognized by peers, critics, and music fans alike. President Barack Obama described him as “one of the most gifted and prolific musicians of our time.” Yet, in spite of the influx of attention, much about Prince's creative life, work, and cultural impact remains thinly examined.

This Thing Called Life fills this vacuum, delving deep into seven key topics—politics, sound, race, gender, sex, religion, and death—that allow us to see Prince in fresh, invigorating new ways. Accessible and timely, This Thing Called Life takes the reader on a journey through the catalog and creative revolution of one of America's most compelling and elusive icons.

Prince's politics were complex and multifaceted. He was known for his progressive views on social issues, such as racism, sexism, and homophobia. He was a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community and supported the rights of marginalized groups. He also spoke out against the war in Iraq and the use of military force in foreign conflicts.

However, Prince's politics were not without controversy. He was criticized for his use of profanity in his music and his sometimes controversial lyrics. He was also accused of being anti-Semitic and of making racist remarks in interviews.

Prince's beliefs about God were also a subject of much speculation. He was known for his religious eclecticism, and he often incorporated elements of Christianity, Islam, and Judaism into his music and lyrics. He was also known for his belief in the power of meditation and the spiritual realm.

Despite his reluctance to discuss certain subjects, particularly sex, Prince was known for his openness and honesty about his personal life. He was known for his relationships with women, both romantic and platonic, and for his advocacy for sexual freedom and empowerment.

In conclusion, Prince was a multifaceted artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. He was known for his eclectic range of styles, his boundary-pushing lyrics and performances, and his complex and multifaceted politics and beliefs about God. While he was known for his reluctance to discuss certain subjects, particularly sex, his openness and honesty about his personal life and his advocacy for social justice and sexual freedom made him a beloved and influential figure in the world of music.

Weight: 512g
Dimension: 236 x 160 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501333972