The meaning of When Doves Cry by Prince

When Doves Cry is a song by Prince that was released in 1984 as part of his album Purple Rain. The song's lyrics are often interpreted as being about a relationship that has gone sour, with the narrator expressing his desire to move on from the pain caused by his former lover.

The opening lines of the song, "Dig if you will the picture / Of you and I engaged in a kiss," set the tone for the rest of the track, which is characterized by its slow-burning tempo and Prince's signature vocal style. Throughout the song, Prince sings about how he used to love his former lover, but now he can't help but feel pain every time he thinks about her.

The chorus of the song features the iconic lyrics "When doves cry," which have become synonymous with heartbreak and sadness. The line is often interpreted as a metaphor for the end of an era or the passing of something beautiful. Prince's vocal delivery on this track is particularly notable, with his signature falsetto soaring above the instrumentation.

Musically, When Doves Cry features a prominent synthesizer riff and a driving beat that gives the song its sense of momentum. The guitar work on the track is also noteworthy, with Prince employing his trademark chord progressions to create a sense of tension and release.

When Doves Cry has been praised for its emotional honesty and vulnerability. Prince's willingness to bare his soul in the lyrics, combined with his incredible vocal range, make the song a standout in his discography. The song has also been recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time by various music publications, including Rolling Stone and VH1.

Overall, When Doves Cry is a powerful and emotional ballad that showcases Prince's incredible talent as a singer, songwriter, and musician. The song remains a fan favorite to this day, and its themes of heartbreak and longing continue to resonate with listeners.