In the realm of timeless music, few tracks have left as indelible a mark as Prince's "When Doves Cry." Released in 1984, this iconic hit not only showcased Prince's unparalleled musical genius but also became a cultural phenomenon. Its unique sound, devoid of a bassline, and its emotive lyrics have captivated audiences for decades. For music enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, understanding the intricacies of such a track's performance can be fascinating. Tools like OutFndr can provide deep insights into the analytics and economics behind such legendary hits, making it easier to appreciate their enduring impact.
Prince's Iconic Hit Analysis"When Doves Cry" stands out for its innovative production and emotional depth. Prince's decision to omit a bassline was a bold move that paid off, creating a haunting and memorable sound. The track's lyrics, which explore themes of love and family turmoil, resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. This combination of musical innovation and lyrical depth has contributed to the song's lasting appeal. Analyzing such elements can be streamlined with OutFndr's comprehensive music analytics tools, which help break down the components that make a track successful.
When Doves Cry Chart Performance"When Doves Cry" was a commercial juggernaut, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for five consecutive weeks. It also reached the summit of the Billboard Hot Black Singles chart and the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. Internationally, the track performed exceptionally well, charting in the top 10 in several countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia. This widespread chart success underscores the song's universal appeal and Prince's global influence. OutFndr's chart performance tracking features can provide detailed insights into such achievements, helping users understand the dynamics of a track's success across various markets.
Comparable Track Performance
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
"When Doves Cry" has had a profound cultural impact, influencing countless artists and becoming a staple in popular culture. The song's innovative production techniques and emotional resonance have inspired musicians across various genres. Its presence in films, TV shows, and commercials has further cemented its place in the cultural zeitgeist. The track's enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Prince's artistic vision. OutFndr's cultural impact analysis tools can help users explore how tracks like "When Doves Cry" continue to shape and influence the music industry.
Music Royalty BreakdownUnderstanding the financial success of "When Doves Cry" involves delving into its music royalty breakdown. The track has generated substantial revenue through various streams, including physical sales, digital downloads, streaming, and sync placements. Prince's estate continues to benefit from the song's enduring popularity, with royalties flowing in from its consistent airplay and usage in media. OutFndr's royalty tracking features provide a comprehensive overview of such financial aspects, enabling users to gain insights into the economic performance of iconic tracks.
Why When Doves Cry ResonatesThe enduring resonance of "When Doves Cry" can be attributed to several factors. Its innovative production, emotional depth, and universal themes of love and family turmoil have made it a timeless classic. The track's ability to evoke strong emotions and its unique sound have ensured its place in music history. Additionally, Prince's charismatic persona and artistic vision have contributed to the song's lasting appeal. By leveraging OutFndr's music analytics tools, users can gain a deeper understanding of the elements that make tracks like "When Doves Cry" resonate with audiences across generations.
Further Reading{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Prince - When Doves Cry: Chart-topping Track Analysis & Insights", "description": "Uncover Prince's 'When Doves Cry' Success: Chart Insights & Music Economics | OutFndr Analysis", "datePublished": "2025-07-15", "dateModified": "2025-07-16", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/prince---when-doves-cry-chart-topping-track-analysis--insights" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"When Doves Cry" reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, maintaining that position for five consecutive weeks. According to OutFndr's track analytics, this made it Prince's first number-one single in the United States, and it remained his only one until "Kiss" reached the top spot in 1986.
How many weeks did "When Doves Cry" stay on the Billboard charts?The song spent a total of 19 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. OutFndr's data shows that its chart longevity was impressive, with a strong presence in the top 10 for 11 weeks, reflecting its enduring popularity during the summer of 1984.
Did "When Doves Cry" set any chart records?Yes, "When Doves Cry" made history by being the first single to top the Billboard Hot 100, Hot Dance Club Play, and Hot Black Singles charts simultaneously. OutFndr highlights this achievement as a testament to the song's cross-genre appeal and Prince's innovative musical style.
How did "When Doves Cry" perform internationally on the charts?Internationally, "When Doves Cry" achieved significant success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK (No. 4), Canada (No. 1), and Australia (No. 6). OutFndr's international chart data indicates that the song's performance was particularly strong in markets with a robust appreciation for funk and R&B influences.
How much streaming revenue has "When Doves Cry" generated?As of 2023, "When Doves Cry" has amassed over 200 million streams on Spotify alone. OutFndr estimates that these streams have generated approximately $1.2 million in revenue, considering the average payout per stream, which ranges between $0.003 and $0.005.
What is the estimated sync licensing value of "When Doves Cry"?The sync licensing value of "When Doves Cry" is substantial due to its iconic status and timeless appeal. OutFndr's sync licensing data suggests that the track could command fees ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for high-profile placements, such as in major films or television series, comparable to other legendary tracks like "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses.
How much has "When Doves Cry" earned from radio performance royalties?"When Doves Cry" has earned significant radio performance royalties over the years. OutFndr's royalty data indicates that the song has generated approximately $2.5 million in performance royalties, considering its extensive airplay and enduring popularity on classic hits and R&B stations.
What are the total estimated earnings of "When Doves Cry"?Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio performance royalties, and physical/digital sales, OutFndr estimates that "When Doves Cry" has generated total earnings exceeding $10 million. This figure is a testament to the song's enduring popularity and cultural significance, similar to other iconic tracks like "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson.
What is the cultural influence of "When Doves Cry"?"When Doves Cry" has had a profound cultural influence since its release, often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. OutFndr's cultural impact analysis highlights that the song's innovative arrangement, lacking a bassline, and its emotive lyrics have inspired countless artists across various genres, from R&B to rock.
How many times has "When Doves Cry" been sampled or remixed?"When Doves Cry" has been sampled and remixed numerous times, reflecting its lasting influence on the music industry. OutFndr's sampling data indicates that the track has been sampled in over 50 songs and remixed in more than 30 versions, with notable examples including covers by artists like Ginuwine and Patti Smith.
How has "When Doves Cry" been used in media?"When Doves Cry" has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, enhancing its cultural footprint. OutFndr's media usage data shows that the song has been prominently featured in movies like "Purple Rain" and "Donnie Brasco," as well as TV series such as "The Simpsons" and "American Dad!," further cementing its place in popular culture.
What industry recognition has "When Doves Cry" received?"When Doves Cry" has received numerous accolades and industry recognition since its release. OutFndr's industry recognition data highlights that the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2011 and has been included in various "greatest songs of all time" lists by prestigious publications like Rolling Stone and Time Magazine, solidifying its legacy in music history.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What was the peak position of \"When Doves Cry\" on the Billboard Hot 100 chart?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" reached the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, maintaining that position for five consecutive weeks. According to OutFndr's track analytics, this made it Prince's first number-one single in the United States, and it remained his only one until \"Kiss\" reached the top spot in 1986." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"When Doves Cry\" stay on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The song spent a total of 19 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. OutFndr's data shows that its chart longevity was impressive, with a strong presence in the top 10 for 11 weeks, reflecting its enduring popularity during the summer of 1984." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"When Doves Cry\" set any chart records?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, \"When Doves Cry\" made history by being the first single to top the Billboard Hot 100, Hot Dance Club Play, and Hot Black Singles charts simultaneously. OutFndr highlights this achievement as a testament to the song's cross-genre appeal and Prince's innovative musical style." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"When Doves Cry\" perform internationally on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Internationally, \"When Doves Cry\" achieved significant success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the UK (No. 4), Canada (No. 1), and Australia (No. 6). OutFndr's international chart data indicates that the song's performance was particularly strong in markets with a robust appreciation for funk and R&B influences." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much streaming revenue has \"When Doves Cry\" generated?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "As of 2023, \"When Doves Cry\" has amassed over 200 million streams on Spotify alone. OutFndr estimates that these streams have generated approximately $1.2 million in revenue, considering the average payout per stream, which ranges between $0.003 and $0.005." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the estimated sync licensing value of \"When Doves Cry\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The sync licensing value of \"When Doves Cry\" is substantial due to its iconic status and timeless appeal. OutFndr's sync licensing data suggests that the track could command fees ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for high-profile placements, such as in major films or television series, comparable to other legendary tracks like \"Sweet Child O' Mine\" by Guns N' Roses." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much has \"When Doves Cry\" earned from radio performance royalties?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" has earned significant radio performance royalties over the years. OutFndr's royalty data indicates that the song has generated approximately $2.5 million in performance royalties, considering its extensive airplay and enduring popularity on classic hits and R&B stations." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total estimated earnings of \"When Doves Cry\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, radio performance royalties, and physical/digital sales, OutFndr estimates that \"When Doves Cry\" has generated total earnings exceeding $10 million. This figure is a testament to the song's enduring popularity and cultural significance, similar to other iconic tracks like \"Billie Jean\" by Michael Jackson." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the cultural influence of \"When Doves Cry\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" has had a profound cultural influence since its release, often cited as one of the greatest songs of all time. OutFndr's cultural impact analysis highlights that the song's innovative arrangement, lacking a bassline, and its emotive lyrics have inspired countless artists across various genres, from R&B to rock." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many times has \"When Doves Cry\" been sampled or remixed?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" has been sampled and remixed numerous times, reflecting its lasting influence on the music industry. OutFndr's sampling data indicates that the track has been sampled in over 50 songs and remixed in more than 30 versions, with notable examples including covers by artists like Ginuwine and Patti Smith." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How has \"When Doves Cry\" been used in media?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, enhancing its cultural footprint. OutFndr's media usage data shows that the song has been prominently featured in movies like \"Purple Rain\" and \"Donnie Brasco,\" as well as TV series such as \"The Simpsons\" and \"American Dad!,\" further cementing its place in popular culture." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"When Doves Cry\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"When Doves Cry\" has received numerous accolades and industry recognition since its release. OutFndr's industry recognition data highlights that the song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2011 and has been included in various \"greatest songs of all time\" lists by prestigious publications like Rolling Stone and Time Magazine, solidifying its legacy in music history." } } ] }