"Controversy" is the fourth studio album by American singer-songwriter Prince, released on October 14, 1981, by Warner Bros. Records. Prince produced the album, wrote nearly all the songs, and performed most of the instruments.
The album reached number three on the Billboard R&B Albums chart and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. It was also voted the eighth best album of the year in the 1981 Pazz & Jop critics poll conducted by The Village Voice.
This album marked the first time Prince was associated with the color purple and featured sensational spelling in its song titles.
The title track opens the album, raising questions about Prince's race and sexuality. It includes a chant of The Lord's Prayer, which some critics noted as "flirting with blasphemy." "Do Me, Baby" is an extended ballad with explicitly sexual lyrics, while "Ronnie, Talk to Russia" presents a politically charged message directed at President Ronald Reagan. "Private Joy" showcases a lighter, bubblegum pop-funk sound, followed by "Annie Christian," which references significant historical events, including the murder of African-American children in Atlanta and John Lennon's death. The final track, "Jack U Off," features a synthesized rockabilly style.
