Musicology (2004)
Self-centred, inorganic, but deeply and weirdly funky, this bullish song about high-status partying sounds like a 21st century reimagining of how the upper decks on the Titanic would soirée after hearing about what happens after-hours below in steerage. A jealous, monied reply to the real life o’ the party beneath the Plimsoll line. Three minutes in when the much lauded party arrives, it’s a spiky, staccato Latin affair that quickly descends into barbs thrown at Prince’s critics (“‘he don’t play the hits no more, plus I thought he was gay'”) and Michael Jackson (“my voice is getter higher and I ain’t never had my nose done, that’s the other guy”). This mix of disdain, ego and forced joviality creates a delectable cocktail and Prince plays the pouting preenster so well – a side of his psyche that he can tap into for devastating comic effect. Clattering percussion, spat lyrics and a jarring chorus presents you with a party that you wouldn’t ever want to attend but as long as this isn’t your world it makes for a great listen.
One of the worst 20 songs he’s ever composed. I’m beginning to regret my climb up this list. Better than Let’s Work? Really?
Depends on the battle. Funkwise, no. But as an art statement, yes. Let’s Work is a great funk track but hardly unique. Life o’ the Party is a weird, off-putting, kooky anti-party track that (I believe) is a dig at the soullessness of monied, enforced fun. I find it hilarious but would never want to dance to it.