Prince Explains Why He Changed His Name to A Symbol in CNN Video Footage

After the terrible news of Prince's death was reported, all sorts of video footage began surfacing of the incredible talent that inspired so many other musicians.

In the video below, Prince explains why he chose to change his name to a symbol.

The interview was conducted with Larry King on CNN, December 10, 1999.

King told Prince that many people didn't change their name after coming off as much success as he was. His response was pretty interesting and gives a little insight into his mindset during the time.

"I had searched deep within my heart and spirit and I wanted to make a change and move to a new plateau in my life," Prince told King.

"One of the ways in which I did that was to change my name. It sort of divorced me from the past and all the hangups that go along with it."

Prince did not actually choose the name "The Artist Formerly Known As." He revealed that it was chosen for him and that he didn't know what he would have chosen. His name didn't come to him like that but "The Artist Formerly Known As" came out of the medias frustrations with not having a pronunciation for the symbol.

You can watch the superstar explain his reasoning below, as the world mourns the loss of a true artist.

Watch Prince Explain His Decision to Change His Name

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