Prince Kicking Kim Kardashian Off Stage and 6 Other Times He Spoke His Mind

Prince was not just a musical genius—he was an icon whose personality and words often captured as much attention as his music. Known for his eccentric style, unparalleled talent, and fearless individuality, Prince didn’t shy away from making bold statements both in his music and in his personal life.

He was a man of conviction, and his unapologetic behavior made him a magnetic, controversial figure. One of the most famous instances of Prince speaking his mind occurred when he kicked Kim Kardashian off stage during a performance. But that was just one of many times the legendary artist made headlines for his candid, sometimes shocking opinions.

Here’s a look at that moment, plus six other times Prince didn’t hold back when it came to speaking his truth.

1. Prince Kicks Kim Kardashian Off Stage (2011)

One of the most talked-about incidents that perfectly encapsulated Prince’s no-nonsense attitude took place during a concert in 2011. Kim Kardashian, who was known for her celebrity status and presence at high-profile events, was invited to join Prince on stage at a concert.

However, the interaction didn’t go as expected. Prince, who was infamous for being a perfectionist and often taking control of every aspect of his performance, reportedly didn’t appreciate Kardashian’s presence.

As the story goes, Kardashian was invited to dance on stage during the event, but when she appeared to be out of sync with the rhythm of Prince’s performance, he swiftly called her out and had her escorted off the stage.

The moment became a viral sensation, with many applauding Prince’s authority and willingness to remain in control of his show, even if it meant rejecting a pop culture figure like Kardashian. It was an unforgettable reminder that, for Prince, the music and the moment always came first.

2. Prince Refused to Release His Music on Streaming Platforms

Long before streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music dominated the music industry, Prince took a stand against the growing trend of digital music. In 2015, Prince famously removed his music from all streaming platforms, including Spotify and YouTube.

His reasoning was simple: he didn’t want his music to be devalued in a system that didn’t pay artists what they deserved. While many musicians were embracing streaming as the future of music distribution, Prince took a bold stance by demanding that his music be respected and treated with value. His decision was a declaration of his deep belief in artistic ownership and control.

He also stated, “The internet’s completely over,” predicting the rise of digital services but warning against the way the industry was changing. His refusal to allow his music to be streamed gave a strong statement about the value of artistic work and the need to respect creators’ rights. Prince was always ahead of the curve, and this move was a powerful commentary on the state of the industry.

3. Prince’s Dismissal of Award Shows

Prince was never one to shy away from his thoughts on the entertainment industry, and he didn’t hold back when it came to award shows. In 1999, he famously criticized the Grammy Awards, noting that they were more about marketing and less about genuine artistic achievement.

In his eyes, the industry was about selling records rather than rewarding true creativity. Prince’s critique was an example of his belief in artistry over commercial success.

“I’ve never been a fan of awards shows because I’ve seen how the system works. It’s not about who is the best musician; it’s about who has the best marketing and who’s in the most control of their music,” Prince explained. He preferred to define his success on his terms, rather than chasing validation from mainstream institutions.

4. The “Slave” Incident with Warner Bros.

Perhaps one of the most famous instances of Prince challenging the system was his battle with his record label, Warner Bros., during the 1990s. Prince famously wrote the word “Slave” on his face in protest of his contract, which he felt was restrictive and exploitative.

He was frustrated that he had no control over his music and was essentially being treated as a product by the label. This battle was a reflection of Prince’s belief in creative freedom and the importance of artistic integrity.

Prince’s decision to publicly protest his contract was a bold move that spoke to the larger issue of artists’ rights in the music industry. It was a powerful reminder that Prince was more than just a performer; he was a champion of artistic freedom and refused to let corporate interests dictate his art.

5. Prince’s Opposition to the Music Industry’s Obsession with Youth

Throughout his career, Prince spoke out against the entertainment industry’s obsession with youth. He made it clear that he didn’t believe age should define an artist’s relevance.

He once remarked, “The industry is ageist. Once you’re over 40, you’re seen as ‘past it.’ I’ve never felt that way about music.” Prince was adamant that his artistry was timeless, and his comments resonated with many artists who struggled to find relevance as they aged in the music industry.

His own career was a testament to his belief. He continually reinvented himself and his sound, proving that an artist’s worth isn’t tied to their age, but to their ability to innovate and push boundaries.

6. Prince’s Disdain for the “Pop Music Machine”

Prince had a deep disdain for the commercialization of pop music. In interviews, he would often criticize the industry’s “pop machine,” which he felt reduced music to a product rather than an artistic expression.

He once said, “The machine is broken, and it needs to be fixed.” This remark was aimed at the over-commercialization of music and the way mainstream pop culture focused more on image and profit than true artistry.

In a 1999 interview with Rolling Stone, he added, “Music should be free, and it should never be manipulated.” Prince’s attitude toward the music industry was rebellious; he saw himself as an artist who was not beholden to the mainstream or its expectations.

His decision to step outside of the commercial machine and create his own path allowed him to maintain the independence that was central to his identity as an artist.

7. Prince’s Call for Privacy in the Digital Age

In an age where social media and constant connectivity were beginning to take over, Prince had a clear stance on privacy. In interviews, he expressed concerns about the loss of privacy in the digital age, famously avoiding social media and rejecting public appearances that were not in line with his artistic pursuits.

He also refused to allow any photographs to be taken during his concerts or personal life, valuing his privacy above all.

Prince once stated, “The idea of being available at all times, it’s not natural for humans.” He believed that part of being an artist was preserving the mystery and mystique that made his persona so powerful. His desire for privacy was a way to maintain control over his image, which was incredibly important to him.

Prince was more than just a musician—he was a revolutionary voice who always spoke his mind, often challenging the norms and expectations placed upon him by the music industry and society.

From his bold comments on celebrity culture to his refusal to be commodified by the music business, Prince was a constant force for individuality and artistic freedom. His impact extended beyond his music; it was in the way he lived, the way he worked, and the way he used his platform to make powerful statements about art, privacy, and the industry’s flaws.