Who Sings “Kiss”: The Definitive Guide to the Song and Its Performers

Answer Summary

The question “who sings kiss” most often refers to Prince’s 1984 pop-rock anthem “Kiss,” the definitive version for most listeners. Other well-known recordings include Tom Jones’s 2002 cover, which reached the top 30 in the UK, and indie/rock interpretations by artists such as The Orb and Sixpence None the Richer. Less commonly, the query may point to “Kiss” by Sixpence None the Richer (1999) or instrumental tracks with the same title. This guide focuses on the primary performances of the Prince-penned song and related high-profile covers, with verified details on writers, release years, and chart performance.

Primary Version: Prince’s “Kiss” (19)

Prince’s “Kiss” is the most recognized recording of the title. Released in 1984 as a single from his album 1999, the track was written by Prince and co-produced with Revolution bassist Brownmark. It became a defining moment in his transition toward a more streamlined pop-rock sound while retaining his signature rhythmic groove and falsetto vocals. The song peaked at number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and was certified Gold by the RIAA, cementing its place in pop and R&B history.

Key Details for Prince’s “Kiss”

Notable Covers and Related Songs

Because the title “Kiss” is common, many performers have recorded songs named “Kiss.” The most frequently asked-about covers include Tom Jones’s 2002 version, a commercially released single that entered the UK Singles Chart. Another is the pop ballad “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer, often referred to simply as “Kiss,” which gained prominence in the late 1990s through TV and film placements. The Orb and other electronic acts have also released tracks titled “Kiss,” though with more niche recognition.

Comparison of High-Profile “Kiss” Recordings

Writer and Publishing Information

For Prince’s “Kiss,” the songwriting credits belong solely to Prince, administered by his publishing entities that manage his extensive catalog. The track is published by Warner Chappell Music and administered through Prince’s estate in perpetuity. For covers such as Tom Jones’s recording, separate licensing and writing credits apply to the original songwriter and any adaptations. Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me” was written by guitarist Matt Slocum and published by standard performing rights societies (ASCAP/BMI).

Commercial Performance and Legacy

Prince’s “Kiss” remains his most sampled and referenced pop song之一 from the 1999 era, influencing later neo-soul and funk-pop artists. Its smooth bassline and minimalist arrangement are frequently studied in production courses. Tom Jones’s cover introduced the title to a new audience but did not achieve major chart success in the United States. Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me” enjoyed broad mainstream exposure, featuring on soundtracks for family-friendly films and teen dramas, which reinforced its standing as a generational touchstone for late-’90s pop. The ongoing use of these tracks in playlists and media keeps the “Kiss” lineage relevant across streaming eras.

Common Misconceptions

A common misconception is that “Kiss” and “Kiss Me” are the same song; they are distinct compositions with different writers, tempos, and commercial trajectories. Another is that multiple artists share identical chart success with their versions—while many have recorded a “Kiss,” Prince’s original remains the most commercially significant. Instrumental or non-lyrical tracks titled “Kiss” may appear in DJ sets or soundtracks but rarely register on public chart metrics. Understanding these distinctions clarifies why certain versions are more frequently referenced in mainstream discussion.

Where to Listen and Verify

Prince’s “Kiss” is available on all major streaming services and physical compilations such as The Hits/The B-Sides. Tom Jones’s cover can be found on his 2002 album Reload and digital stores. Sixpence None the Richer’s “Kiss Me” appears on the album Sweet Acoustic Sessions and standard pop retrospectives. Performance credits, writers, and certification data are verifiable through official label press kits, RIAAGold.org, and performing rights organization databases.

Wrap-Up

When asking “who sings kiss,” the answer is most accurately Prince for the definitive 1984 pop anthem, with Tom Jones and Sixpence None the Richer offering high-profile variations. This guide separates the primary recording from similarly titled tracks, providing verified writer credits, chart data, and commercial context. For ongoing streaming and cultural relevance, Prince’s original continues to anchor the conversation, while covers illustrate how a single title can sustain multiple interpretations across decades.