Prince Acceptance Speech at the 2004 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

[@laurisaarinen1126]

So many people respect Prince as a musician (as they should) but not enough people respect him as a person. How humble and true he stayed being that rich and famous, is truly something to admire. Prince did not want his fans to "worship" him, that's why he didn't call them his fans, but friends. He understood what it means to be famous, and it's not that you can do anything you like, but that you have power to influence people. And he made sure that everything he said was a positive influence. As he said, the system is corrupted and it's possible he was tried to be silenced... He was acting in ways seen to be strange, stuff pretty much no one else did, because he was really smart AND daring. There is no bigger celebrity role model to me. Normally i do not consider celebrities role models, but Prince is a rare exception.

[@trenscendingphoenix]

So true, amen 🙏❤️

[@wandertwins]

Indeed.

[@jimmysapien9961]

I agree - he was phenomenal!!!!!

[@robertbishop5357]

I find it interesting that he died from a fentany laced vicodin. I suspect he was slipped a Mickey finn. I don't believe that he would have called on nefarious drug dealers for pain relief.

[@chamham6734]

@Buba Joe He had bad hips…

[@beatrute2677]

He was a man of few words, but when he did speak it was always with such wisdom

[@dorothydrake8838]

Apparently he talked lots to his close friends. His sister said that sometimes she couldn’t get him to shut up. But in public, he was aware of how much his words mattered, so he chose them carefully.

[@dwaterson21]

Prince was a man of few words, but what he said rings out even louder now. And he is 100% the most underrated guitar player of all time.

[@hectorlatorre8578]

I feel embarrassed not having appreciated this man more while he was alive. 😢

[@MaryLou913]

You’re here now! 🕊️🎸☔️💜

[@icu3869]

After getting teased my whole life for being a Prince fan, his death was devastating, but seeing how so many honored and celebrated him was validating. A very bittersweet silver lining .

[@funnylookingfoetus]

Miss him. Gone way too soon. Such a sublime artist and human being.

[@Dedi-c8b]

I totally agree! Gone too soon!

[@johnmccann1960]

There are many men in the world called Genius, but Prince truly was and we'll never see the like of him again.

[@dancingmoonproductions]

Not in the music industry or Hollywood anyway

[@treehugger2397]

My family were afraid to tell me when he passed. I mourned for days and days like crying intensely. No one knew how much his music meant to me on those lonely lonely days in my childhood.

[@MaryLou913]

Amen!

[@Heprishence]

Yeah, it was prince and me in my youth.

[@nicero870]

You and me both, since 1982.

[@robertbishop5357]

Prince during his speech was giving some very important and wise advice.

[@abk9203]

"Too much freedom without the spiritual mentoring will lead to soul's decay." Damn too deep. Especially when it's coming from Prince's mouth, given that his career has been. It's like he is telling this to each everyone of us so that they shouldn't do the mistakes he has done, and is cautioning his listeners.

[@le_th_]

This is what an empathic, caring person does when they truly want others to NOT make the same mistakes they've already made, and he made many before he grew up, matured, took responsibility, and sought to make (some) things right. Heartbreaking the way he died...alone...in that elevator in Paisley Park...of a drug overdose.

[@NoUnknown-y5p]

He was taking painkillers to deal w his aching hips. It wasnt simple recreational drug use. It was a risky-turned-deadly coping mechanism. Rip beautiful one 🐐💜🎶🎸🕊️

[@alfredtcole3727]

a deep messages here

[@feebeedoc78]

Prince has been with me my entire life.

[@JohnnyAngel-84]

So sad. I hate Prince

[@awc6007]

@@JohnnyAngel-84 Wtf is wrong with you?

[@youngkeys]

If he never told them to be seated, they still be clapping for the next 5 minutes.. he learned over the years

[@barbaralampkin6946]

Lord,miss Michael Jackson and prince so much,it is just not the same without them both,this world has gotten worser without Michael and prince in so many ways!!!! Prince hair in this video was so pretty!!!😭😭😭😭😭😭💜💜💜💜💜💜🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹.

[@dahlia3796]

Prince and Michael were gorgeous in every way 💜👑🖤❤️

[@RealmofmyArt]

Very true ❤️

[@wavy9888]

i literally agree with every single word of this paragraph u typed 3 years ago lol.

[@maddalenamottura]

FACTS We Lost Michael & Prince, luckily We still Got Bruno & Lenny😽

[@LuvOneAnother]

PRINCE is MUSIC. Period.

[@mememocha1]

I'm so glad he got his flowers and appreciation before he passed

[@cassandradennis5685]

Wow!! I see and hear the maturity, Prince came a long way. I'll never forget when Prince came out, I saw him on American Bandstand, he was so shy. Wow!! What time, growth and maturity can do. Prince will forever live in my heart ❤

[@pennyfleck]

He was so humble and gentle soul

[@guadalupeiorio1216]

"All praise and thanks to the most high, Jehovah" 🩶 "without real spiritual mentoring, too much freedom can lead to the souls decay" 🤎 Wow!

[@carlnewtonfishing6045]

His voice is amazing. so smooth.

[@reedykat30]

The mould was broken with Prince. That four way hug photo is priceless.

[@smh93]

Prince tweeted that photo once and captioned it: ANDRE 3STAX: “zzzZZZZZzzzzz” PRINCE: “BRUH….” 😂😂😂😂 Miss him and his hilarious self every single day.

[@linexi]

this man was utterly beautiful and talented

[@christines1821]

When this man speaks it always gives me chills he always speaks some serious truths

[@kimberlykairo]

This mold was broken. There will never be another. I still have mad love for you and what you gave us through your beautiful art. 🙏🏼💖

[@ldhumph70]

He took a lot from the past, melted it together and became a musical icon, that the world won’t ever see the likes of again. I for one, am glad he came my way in 1982 💜

[@pulsarstargrave256]

Sometimes "... a real friend and a mentor" may not know what's best for you. One should always be true to oneself and not surrender so much to another flawed human being!

[@thebuttermilkgirlisback]

I 💕 that group hug at the end!!

[@Dedi-c8b]

Me too! I know right!

[@a.c.cordova9840]

Wow, who would have thought, 12 years or so after that he would be gone! He deserved that award (and many, many more). I miss him. I like how he sets his award on the floor........and leaves it. He was so true to himself and his art.

[@brocko9386]

i think some people dont fully realise the impact prince has had on music not only has he produced and sang his very own number 1 hits BUT has also written songs for other artists that have become number 1 hits .... he is truly a GOAT of music and should be held as such!

[@audreychatman1591]

He so deserved this moment and this honor 💜☂️💜☂️..... I am so glad that I was able to experience his music and his gift! You are loved! RIP💜😢

[@happygirl4218]

I remember going to Sam Goody, a record store in the 80's, and buying his Controversy album with my allowance money. Inside was a poster of him in the shower, in black underwear. I hung that on my wall, my Italian grandfather saw it, and nearly had a stroke. I had to be about 11. A very powerful musician and forward thinker.

[@FredMaradojagger]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@kamcox2508]

Prince is fantastic, see how he puts the award down first he always does then he reaches into his soul , letting the youngest know it's going to hard for them ( they don't own their masters ) but he dud Xx

[@lindaalonso5452]

We wish you were still here Prince. You have a lot of respect w fellow musicians fans young old LBQT black white yellow u name it ☮️

[@IchabodvanTassel98]

Q tela Qiuqiu Quraisy Qipchak Qubil Queue Queens

[@tmarie-rm9nl]

I still miss Prince and am glad he was recognized for all his works..And the words of wisdom ring true today as any day.

[@christinepernal1676]

I'm so happy that this honor was given to him when he was still with us. Such kindness and caring in his heart! His music and wisdom will live on, he will never be forgotten ❤

[@Prince-qk6zo]

He only spoke truths .

[@marylee-anderson8793]

Always a class act. So much loved and missed💜💜💜💜💜💜💜

[@lisaward60]

He's so humble

[@zjah1]

the greatest ! my life inspiration much love may he rest

[@natashawall8131]

Yes sir!!! THE MAN. Absolute musical genius and overall, warm person...humble and shy...can throw the best shade (and can back it up). I miss him. Freedom belongs to him and he wanted his brand.

[@bsquared4604]

such an amazing person.

[@angieleigh2055]

💜🕊💜FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS!! 💜🕊💜

[@jlouis4407]

Prince talks about “this world and his wicked system,” it’s almost like Prince knows something many people don’t

[@Heprishence]

"I've seen the top and it's just a dream". Dajjal.

[@thedon8613]

Him, Chappelle, and Katt Williams. All three have eluded to the poison in Hollywood.

[@moxyblackfiddler]

He was enlightened by Larry Graham. He wasn't on his payroll

[@jlouis4407]

@@moxyblackfiddler Enlightened that's an interesting way to put it just because someone is not officially on your payroll doesn't mean they don't get perks

[@no_onein2024]

He was referencing his beliefs as one of Jehovah's Witnesses, he was baptized as on in 2002. Jesus spoke of the "conclusion of the system of things" at Matthew 24:3 during Jesus' coming and 1 Timothy 3:1-5 "the last days" where "critical times hard to deal with will be here". Prince preached door to door w/ the message of God's Kingdom or heavenly government w Christ as King that will remove ALL human governments out of existence and establish true peace and security on the earth "as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:9, 10)

[@learobins54]

Love that man. Always speaks truth❤

[@tayethediva8527]

I remember watching this live with my family. His induction was a moment in our household.

[@sabrinathompson9605]

He showed his brilliance in the 2021 remaster hall of Fame. They should not have invited him. A man with few words, exemplified his true brilliance on stage. George's son Rock and roll Hall of Fame

[@phil5301]

Prince. Thank you.

[@iezurashah5816]

2020 n im crying everytime me watch this....

[@sophiafara5997]

why?

[@privatejoy.2907]

Now I understand by where else is it gonna come from dear Prince with all my mind...

[@sloansarabia]

Loved his music, but now I have learned more about Prince. Another to my heroes list.

[@cadishackstim5578]

I miss him, but we have the music. Prince was a student, joker, master, teacher, icon, transcendent legend and a gift to the world and beyond.

[@J.C...]

Thank God he was here for this. Many aren't. Duane Allman wasn't there when The Allman Brothers Band made it to the R&R HOF. I'm sure he would have been thrilled. And Gregg wouldn't have been so drunk. I'm sure he was thinking about his Big Bro that entire day. 😔

[@wishbone7410]

well it's 16yrs ago ! 16年も経つんですね。 i didn't know the fact of such as if he is still alive ! RIP the 'Prince' !

[@hermesalonso3968]

Everybody should be giving this guys a standing ovation everybody doesn't need encouragement 4 ppl to stand up he said it best sometimes a man ain't happy truly until he truly dies why ? They don't do Elvis like this 🤔 🎼Race! In space I am human!😎

[@markknoop777]

In some ways he seemed quite naive but actually he was really wise.

[@bradb7268]

How he looks naive?

[@sanghamitrakhosla6585]

Legends never die love you❤❤

[@elmensajero7295]

Is funny to see Prince recognize the MOST HIGH first on his speech, and to see at the end of the video the Pyramid logo of the R&RHF, and if you see a guitar instead, you are not awake like Prince.

[@ghostrider2664]

That dude was fucking slick

[@Betty-tv6st]

Wow!!! The one and Only Prince!!!💔💔💔💔💜💜💜

[@Ecclectic_citcelccE]

What a beautiful soul.❤

[@jackielromero]

You were so wise my dearest brother!!! ❤️

[@jimbombadill]

I LOVe Prince, grew up with his music listening to him since i was 11. He is a musical genius with out any comparence ...but man did he feel stiff in this clip :)

[@brucekentnyc]

"A real friend is not on your payroll". He said this after o stood him up Just a few months prior. I was going to us him to surprise every single person that had bought a ticket to the New Years Eve party at Madison Square Garden 2003 into 2004. At the last minute I changed my mind for something else. He was so pissed, he 1st had a lawyer call me but not to sue but to understand why I would do that and did he do something wrong. Then he called me 2 days before that New Years eve party with a voice box- similar to what he did to Wendy &Lisa in Purple Rain. I didn't know it was him until after his passing. However, right after this induction he left that trophy at his lawyer's office. It was sitting right out there for all who came into that office to see. I saw it picked it up and held it. Johan Sebastian Bach has done it. We did it!! He came back in this life and look at him, just as Noahstradamus told him he would. I have never been more prouder of him. Now, why did I stand him up? Since I was a kid and watched the Omen, I knew that movie was about me being the devil. Growing up I would watch Keanu Reeves movies, and he followed the same pattern- ME. I was getting tired of it and so I had to come forth and present myself. The Matrix trilogy was the last straw. So, I set the wheels in motion and on Friday February 13,2004 I began my "Spiritual coming out story". June 6th,2006 i would be 33 years old and thus the Omen was basically the blue print for keanus movie shenanigans. He9Prince) could not be involved with this at all. He needed to be protected and guarded from the Chaos that was about to engulf me. I was about to tell the world that I am in-fact- LUCIFER/Hades the Angel of light/prince of Darkness and the God of death/Hate. How does that look to a guy who loves Jesus? Even though he knew who I was and would sing about me all the time. he even made an entire album for me for my 15th birthday back in 1988 called none other than "LoveSexy". I really miss him and I hadn't met him in this life yet. he gets a star next year and I have a story about that as well. My friend died on me April 20,12016. The reason why my voice is so clear because there is no smack in my brain-Eye NO.

[@blackstrat8091]

YESSS YESS YES YES, FINALLY !!!

[@hmngbrd]

I miss him.

[@ixthisss]

P r i n c e 💜 No1 on the face of the E🌎rth is a better performer. 🙏🏻

[@an3rst]

I love him so much

[@TshawnDennis]

We need this as of now .......but I think he's a 1 in a million

[@javajuls2u]

That was a beautiful speech really

[@Eastpointe]

Prince prophesied the hell this world is experiencing now

[@m.e398]

Rest in peace good people go so fast. And knew how mch you would imapct your generation

[@DomoniqueStewart3936]

R.I.P 2 MY FRIEND/HERO, PRINCE ROGERS NELSON/THE REVOLUTION (JUNE 7th, 1958 - APRIL 21st, 2016) I WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU, MAN.......SO VERY MUCH........FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, BUT YOU'RE KING OF PRINCE, BUDDY.

[@lindapatterson8573]

Love Prince forever and always

[@charlottepryor2041]

He so gorgeous with his small frame ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@jakobdoubleu]

Crazy how interlinked people are in the music industry. Prince thanks Larry Graham, the bassist of Sly, later also known for being Drake’s uncle in here.

[@C01A60]

Words of wisdom..

[@lewicindabaker4032]

I am so sad his gone but He he the dang thing 👄👄👄❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@kemetanew4579]

My Brother will rise again. John 5:28,29❤

[@leecarson3426]

Prince was so handsome and sexy. He was so brilliant and talented. Very few people compare to Prince. PRINCE IS A LEGEND.

[@johnhurd4878]

Andre saying get up off ya a## without even saying it.

[@crissanchez0126]

0:30 first thing first, Jehova above all. Prince knew who all the glory belonged to. ❤

[@MixtapeKilla2004]

''Amazing!''

[@Hbizz813]

I miss you 💜🕊️

[@danielmelo7146]

Respect.

[@SarjanaVelten]

Peace

[@heathereileenoquin]

"granted" freedom shown the future "negotiations" said what he was allowed to say "this world and it's wicked systems...it ain't o'r"

[@sfender2182]

Yes, as Prince says “care for your soul” - the spiritual and religious parts of our lives are the most important. Eternity awaits us all, and I pray that Prince made it to heaven. Please don’t just assume that anyone who seems nice and righteous will always go to heaven. We don’t know about their whole life and, of course, Jesus is the all knowing judge of everyone; no matter what their belief system is. Pray for the salvation of all! 🌅🌅🎚🎚and God bless Prince.

[@jazshas]

Which is why we are not saved based on how good we are. We are saved by Grace through faith in Christ Jesus. Jesus, the Word of God made flesh, gave his life and paid the price for mankind's sin. Salvation is not based on how good we are but on the goodness of God alone. John 14:6 KJV [6] Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

[@sfender2182]

@jazshas Jesus also said to do my Fathers Will; and to keep the Commandments. So yes, it’s not good to do evil acts, and then say “but I’m a believer”. Doing the Fathers will, and also doing all that Jesus taught us (as he said we should) is being in union with God’s will.

[@jazshas]

@@sfender2182 And if you don't keep it 💯 you're guilty of all. That's what the law requires.

[@nielkofficial6538]

if he's in, noone else should be in

[@richardrodriguez9953]

I never knew Prince was in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame

[@edmund6392]

At 2:17 he says "group hug"

[@outcognito_2398]

Awwww hahaha, I heard it🥰😆

[@Juggalo94]

Prince ... Rockstar enough said

[@YmK-vz7lx]

So handsome

[@Maestrodhont]

pointing at big boi and saying andree

[@lakishascott2132]

Awwwww 💛❤💛

[@terrenceowens8182]

Ayyyy. I didn’t even realize Andre Benjamin behind him… look at God!!

[@jlouis4407]

He’s talking about the “chosen people”

[@luciaferraro4102]

👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@TweedSuit]

Who's up for some PANCAKES?

[@themechanicman3865]

To much fredom can lead to the souls decay truth foreal

[@terrenceowens8182]

I see ya Diddy and Chris Rock!!!!

[@moonwalker7325]

Please be seated- prince

[@solb101]

The real friend and mentor is Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

[@alonsogalindo1428]

“For I have not spoken of my own initiative, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment about what to say and what to speak. 50 And I know that his commandment means everlasting life. So whatever I speak, I speak just as the Father has told me.”-Jesus

[@no_onein2024]

@@alonsogalindo1428 Correct, Jesus' Father Jehovah. Jesus only did and say what Jehovah God commanded him to. "I Love the Father" said Jesus.