* Sly Stone: Sly Stone was another major influence on Prince. Stone's band, Sly and the Family Stone, was one of the most successful and innovative funk bands of the 1970s, and their music had a profound impact on Prince. Prince was particularly drawn to Stone's use of synthesizers and his experimental approach to music.
* Joni Mitchell: Prince was also a fan of Joni Mitchell, and her music influenced his songwriting and guitar playing. Mitchell's lyrics are often introspective and personal, and Prince adopted a similar approach in his own songs. Prince also admired Mitchell's guitar playing, and he was inspired by her use of unusual chords and tunings.
* The Beatles: The Beatles were a major influence on Prince, and their music can be heard in many of his songs. Prince was particularly drawn to the Beatles' melodic sense and their use of harmony. He also admired the Beatles' experimental approach to music, and he was inspired by their willingness to push the boundaries of what was considered acceptable.
* Miles Davis: Miles Davis was another major influence on Prince. Davis was a jazz trumpeter and composer, and his music had a profound impact on Prince. Prince was particularly drawn to Davis's use of improvisation and his ability to create new sounds. He also admired Davis's eclecticism, and he was inspired by his willingness to explore different genres of music.