Prince's Push for Control Set Example for Today's Artists

  • Superstar kept ownership of recordings, limited use online
  • His efforts strengthened the hands of later stars like Adele

Remembering Prince: Outspoken Artist and Musical Exemplar

Music legend Prince left as big a mark behind the scenes of the recording industry as he did on his millions of fans.

The artist, who died Thursday at age 57 at his home near Minneapolis, waged a relentless campaign for control over his music empire as the Internet era dawned. His crusade left a playbook for stars like Taylor Swift and Adele, who now have the power to dictate how and where their songs get played.