When Doves Cry

song by Prince

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Last updated

July 21, 2026

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"When Doves Cry" is a song by Prince that was released in 1984. It was a hit single from his album Purple Rain, which served as the soundtrack for a semi-autobiographical film of the same name. The song is noted for its androgynous yet vulnerable themes and became one of Prince's biggest hits, earning a Grammy Award as part of the Purple Rain album's accolades. Prince was a highly talented musician, known for his ability to play multiple instruments and for his innovative approach to music production, often creating his music alone in the studio. His work frequently explored themes of sexuality, desire, and the struggle against social conventions.

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Prince
Crossover success and Purple Rain
…the androgynous but vulnerable “When Doves Cry,” and the anthemic title cut. Thereafter, he continued to produce inventive music of broad appeal; outside the United States he was particularly popular in Britain and the rest of Europe.
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…the androgynous but vulnerable “When Doves Cry,” and the anthemic title cut. Thereafter, he continued to produce inventive music of broad appeal; outside the United States he was particularly popular in Britain and the rest of Europe.
Read More