Why Did Prince Change His Name to The Artist?
Prince, an iconic musician and performer, has been known for his enigmatic and versatile persona throughout his career. One of the most intriguing aspects of his public identity was his frequent name changes. Perhaps the most notable of these was his decision to rename himself “The Artist.” This article delves into the reasons behind this significant change and explores the implications it had on his career and legacy.
The reasons for Prince’s name change to “The Artist” are not entirely clear, but several theories have been proposed over the years. One of the most widely accepted explanations is that Prince wanted to distance himself from his birth name, which he felt had negative connotations. Born as Prince Rogers Nelson, he was given the name by his parents, who hoped it would bring him good luck. However, Prince felt that the name was too common and did not reflect his unique identity as an artist.
Another theory suggests that Prince was influenced by the Hindu belief in reincarnation. As a follower of this philosophy, he may have felt that his birth name was tied to his past life and wanted to create a new identity for himself as “The Artist.” This new name symbolized his ability to create and reinvent himself, much like an artist does with their work.
Furthermore, Prince’s decision to change his name to “The Artist” may have been a strategic move to protect his brand. In the early 1980s, the musician was involved in a legal battle with Warner Bros. Records over the rights to his name. By renaming himself, he was able to retain control over his name and avoid any future legal disputes.
The impact of Prince’s name change to “The Artist” was significant. It allowed him to maintain a sense of mystery and intrigue, which was a central part of his persona. It also helped him to establish a unique brand that was distinct from other artists of his time. As “The Artist,” he was able to experiment with various musical styles and personas, further solidifying his reputation as a groundbreaking and innovative musician.
In conclusion, the reasons behind Prince’s name change to “The Artist” remain somewhat enigmatic. However, it is clear that this decision had a profound impact on his career and legacy. By embracing the title of “The Artist,” Prince was able to create a new identity for himself that allowed him to explore his creativity and maintain a sense of mystery. His name change serves as a testament to his ability to reinvent himself and his enduring influence on the music industry.
