Ten of the most iconic Prince songs

The music world was left reeling yesterday with the sudden death of Prince at the age of just 57.

The blow was all the heavier, considering the irreplaceable gap that had been left by David Bowie's death just over four months ago.

Like Bowie, Prince was a true musical icon; a one-of-a-kind artist, a master of reinvention and a musician so influential that he reduced many of his peers to quivering fanboys and fangirls whenever he met them – as many of them have attested to since the news broke.

Above all else, he was just bloody cool.

Having released 39 albums across his 40-year-long career, it's impossible to narrow that hugely diverse discography down to a short list – not to mention the songs he wrote for other artists. However, below you'll find 10 of the bona fide genius's most iconic songs.

R.I.P.

Purple Rain (1984)

When Doves Cry (1984)

Raspberry Beret (1985)

Kiss (1986)

Diamonds and Pearls (1991)

Gett Off (1991)

Little Red Corvette (1983)

Cream (1991) 

I Would Die 4 U (1984)

What song did you play when you heard the news?