Discover Prince’s Heartfelt ‘Another Lonely Christmas’ Track

In an exploration of lesser-known tracks, SPIN has highlighted “Another Lonely Christmas,” the only holiday-themed song written by Prince Rogers Nelson. Released in 1984 as a B-side to his hit “I Would Die 4 U,” this poignant song reflects themes of heartache and loss, told through the eyes of a grieving lover.

Prince’s prolific output during the 1980s saw him releasing an album nearly every year. His creative energy extended beyond his own projects, influencing many artists signed to Paisley Park Records. “Another Lonely Christmas” stands out not only for its emotional depth but also for its musical complexity, featuring a five-minute version on the 7-inch single and an extended seven-minute mix on the 12-inch version.

A Heartbreaking Narrative

The lyrics of “Another Lonely Christmas” narrate the sorrow of a man mourning the loss of his partner, who died on December 25. The song’s opening lines poignantly capture this grief: “Your father said it was pneumonia, your mother said it was stress / But the doctor said you were dead, and I say it’s senseless.” The extended mix offers further depth with additional verses, presenting a blend of melancholy and unexpected lightness with references to banana daiquiris.

While many fans first encountered the shorter version of the song in a 1993 compilation, the extended mix gained wider availability with the release of a deluxe edition of Prince’s works. Notably, the artist performed “Another Lonely Christmas” live for the first time shortly after its release, during a series of concerts at the St. Paul Civic Center from December 23 to December 28, 1984.

Legacy and Recognition

Despite not being released as a single, “Another Lonely Christmas” remains a significant part of Prince’s discography, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through music. In the same year, Prince received his first Grammy nomination for “International Lover,” although he lost the award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance to Michael Jackson’s iconic “Billie Jean.”

The emotional weight of “Another Lonely Christmas” is further underscored by its association with Prince’s broader body of work, including the closing track from his film Under the Cherry Moon, “Sometimes It Snows in April.” This poignant ballad reflects on loss and gained greater significance after Prince’s own passing on April 21, 2016, precisely 31 years after the song was recorded.

As we reflect on the legacy of Prince and his unique contributions to music, “Another Lonely Christmas” serves as a reminder of the artist’s ability to blend heartbreak with beauty, making it a track worth revisiting during the holiday season.