Prince – Little Red Corvette

About the song

In the vast landscape of musical history, few artists have left as indelible a mark as Prince. With his unique blend of funk, rock, and pop, Prince’s contributions to music are legendary, and among his impressive catalog, “Little Red Corvette” stands out as one of his most iconic tracks. Released in 1983 as the second single from his fifth studio album, “1999,” this song encapsulates the essence of Prince’s artistry, combining sensuality, storytelling, and an infectious groove that remains timeless.

“Little Red Corvette” is a masterclass in songwriting and production. From the moment the opening synthesizer line begins, it’s clear that this isn’t just another pop song; it’s an experience. Prince’s ability to blend elements of different genres is on full display here, as the track seamlessly integrates rock guitar riffs with a pulsating rhythm and smooth, melodic synth lines. The song’s structure is both innovative and accessible, making it a staple on radio playlists and a favorite among fans for decades.

At its core, “Little Red Corvette” is a narrative about a fleeting romantic encounter, using the metaphor of a fast car to explore themes of passion, desire, and caution. The lyrics, “Girl, you got an ass like I never seen / And the ride… I say the ride is so smooth, you must be a limousine,” are quintessentially Prince: provocative yet poetic, and always delivered with an undeniable charisma. This lyrical duality, combining bold imagery with deeper emotional undercurrents, is a hallmark of Prince’s writing style.

What truly sets “Little Red Corvette” apart is Prince’s vocal performance. His voice, alternating between a seductive croon and an impassioned plea, captures the song’s sensuality and urgency. It’s a vocal performance that feels intimate, as though Prince is confiding in the listener, drawing them into the story he’s weaving. The chorus, with its unforgettable hook, “Little Red Corvette / Baby, you’re much too fast,” is both a warning and a celebration, reflecting the song’s central tension.

The track’s production also deserves special mention. Recorded at Prince’s Kiowa Trail home studio, the song benefits from a crisp, clean sound that allows each element to shine. The guitar solo, performed by Prince himself, is a highlight – a burst of energy that propels the song forward and showcases his prowess as a musician.

“Little Red Corvette” was not just a commercial success, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100, but also a critical triumph, helping to cement Prince’s status as a groundbreaking artist. Its impact extended beyond the charts, influencing countless musicians and becoming a defining song of the 1980s. For many, it was an introduction to Prince’s genius, a perfect blend of pop sensibility and artistic depth.

In conclusion, “Little Red Corvette” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone that captures the essence of Prince’s artistry. Its enduring appeal lies in its perfect balance of melody, lyricism, and performance – a testament to Prince’s talent and his ability to connect with listeners on multiple levels. Whether you’re revisiting it for the hundredth time or hearing it for the first, “Little Red Corvette” remains a thrilling ride, a classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.

Video

Lyrics

I guess I should’ve known by the way you parked your car sideways
That it wouldn’t last
See, you’re the kinda person that believes in makin’ out once
Love ’em and leave ’em fast
I guess I must be dumb ’cause you had a pocket full of horses
Trojan and some of them used

But it was Saturday night, I guess that makes it all right
And you say – “What have I got to lose?”

And honey, I say Little Red Corvette
Baby, you’re much too fast (Oh)
Little Red Corvette
You need a love that’s gonna last

I guess I should’ve closed my eyes when you drove me to the place
Where your horses run free
‘Cause I felt a little ill when I saw all the pictures
Of the jockeys that were there before me
Believe it or not, I started to worry
I wondered if I had enough class

But it was Saturday night, I guess that makes it all right
And you say, “Baby, have you got enough gas?”
Oh yeah!

Little Red Corvette
Baby, you’re much too fast
(Yes you are)
Little Red Corvette
You need to find a love that’s gonna last
(Oh, oh)

A body like yours oughta be in jail
‘Cause it’s on the verge of bein’ obscene
Move over, baby, gimme the keys
I’m gonna try to tame your little red love machine

Little Red Corvette
Baby, you’re much too fast
Little Red Corvette
Need to find a love that’s gonna last, hey hey

Little Red Corvette
Honey, you got to slow down (Got to slow down)
Little Red Corvette
‘Cause if you don’t, you’re gonna run your Little Red Corvette right in the ground
(Little Red Corvette)
Right down to the ground (Honey, you got to slow down)
You, you, you got to slow down
(Little Red Corvette)
You’re movin’ much too fast, too fast
Need to find a love that’s gonna last

Girl, you got an ass like I never seen, ow!
And the ride
I say the ride is so smooth, you must be a limousine
Ow!

Baby, you’re much too fast
Little Red Corvette
You need a love, you need a love that’s, uh, that’s gonna last
(Little Red Corvette)

Babe, you got to slow down (you got to slow down)
Little Red Corvette
‘Cause if you don’t, ’cause if you don’t
You’re gonna run your body right into the ground (Right into the ground)
Right into the ground (Right into the ground)
Right into the ground (Right into the ground)
Little Red Corvette