Sign O The Times

One of the most ambitious and career-defining albums ever recorded by a pop star. From the three-chord melody of “Starfish & Coffee,” to the acoustic guitar hymn of “The Cross,” to the ominous groove of the title track that spoke to the deep anxieties of the late ‘80s, Prince’s operatic songcraft is in full gear. Whether it’s the emotional vulnerability all over the thump of “Hot Thing,” the thunder of “Housequake,” or the sax serenade of “Slow Love,” the album made it clear that Michael couldn’t touch this talent. And once the gender-bending desires of “If I Was Your Girlfriend” climax with “Adore,” arguably the best song Prince ever recorded, the Purple One’s skill for making his most profane desires a spiritual priority is never more irresistible. And a statement of musical immortality has never been this close to perfect.