About the song
“Two Princes” by Spin Doctors
Released in 1993 as the second single from their debut album “Pocket Full of Kryptonite” (1991), “Two Princes” is undoubtedly the most iconic and commercially successful song by American alternative rock band Spin Doctors. Blending a fun, upbeat musical vibe with clever lyricism and a catchy groove, the track became a defining song of early 1990s alternative rock. With its infectious rhythm, memorable melody, and lighthearted storytelling, “Two Princes” remains a staple of 90s rock playlists and radio stations worldwide.
Background and Origins
Spin Doctors formed in the late 1980s in New York City, emerging from the jam band scene. Led by vocalist Chris Barron and guitarist Eric Schenkman, the band also included Mark White on bass and Aaron Comess on drums. Their music was characterized by a fusion of funk, rock, blues, and pop, and their debut album “Pocket Full of Kryptonite”—initially a slow-burn success—gained massive traction thanks to relentless touring and MTV airplay.
“Two Princes” became the band’s breakout hit and was key in pushing the album to multi-platinum status, eventually selling over five million copies worldwide. The song’s timing was also crucial, arriving during the post-Nirvana alternative boom, when audiences were hungry for guitar-driven music that didn’t necessarily carry the heavy emotional weight of grunge.
Musical Composition and Sound
“Two Princes” is driven by a bright, syncopated rhythm, blending elements of funk rock, alternative pop, and a hint of jam band improvisation. The song’s core is built around:
A choppy, percussive guitar riff by Eric Schenkman that opens the song and remains its most recognizable element.
Chris Barron’s animated vocals, which alternate between rapid-fire delivery and melodic crooning.
A tight, groovy rhythm section, with Mark White’s basslines locking into Aaron Comess’s precise drumming.
The song is in major key, which gives it an uplifting and energetic feel. The tempo is brisk, and the arrangement is clean, allowing the individual instruments to shine while supporting the storytelling at its core.
One of the song’s most notable features is its catchy chorus, with the repeated phrase:
“If you want to call me baby, just go ahead now.”
This hook became a pop culture staple, cementing the song’s place in the canon of 90s feel-good anthems.
Lyrics and Themes
Lyrically, “Two Princes” tells a simple but charming love triangle story. The narrator addresses a woman being courted by two suitors: one who is rich and can offer a life of stability, and the other—presumably the narrator—who may be poor but offers genuine love and passion.
Lines like:
“One, two princes kneel before you
That’s what I said now
Princes, princes who adore you
Just go ahead now”
frame the central dilemma. Throughout the song, the narrator emphasizes sincerity and authenticity over wealth and status, appealing to the heart rather than the wallet.
The tone is playful and confident, without veering into arrogance. There’s a self-awareness in the lyrics that makes them endearing, and Chris Barron’s delivery enhances the song’s conversational, tongue-in-cheek quality.
Reception and Chart Performance
“Two Princes” was a massive commercial success, peaking at:
#7 on the US Billboard Hot 100
#2 on the UK Singles Chart
#3 in Canada
Top 10 positions across Europe and Australia
It became a defining hit of the early 90s, receiving Grammy nominations and becoming a radio and MTV favorite. The song was particularly successful in maintaining airplay across pop, rock, and adult contemporary formats, reflecting its broad appeal.
Music Video and Cultural Impact
The accompanying music video, featuring the band performing on a colorful stage intercut with street scenes, matched the song’s light and casual aesthetic. It received heavy rotation on MTV, helping the band gain mainstream visibility.
“Two Princes” has since been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in pop culture history. It continues to appear on 90s compilation albums and is frequently played on nostalgic radio programs.
Despite the Spin Doctors’ struggle to replicate the same level of success in their later releases, “Two Princes” has endured as a timeless track. It’s often remembered for its positivity and charm during a decade where much alternative music was marked by introspection and angst.
Legacy
While Spin Doctors may be viewed as a one-hit-wonder by some casual listeners, “Two Princes” stands as a testament to their musical chops and ability to craft a universally appealing pop-rock song. The track combines tight musicianship, playful lyrics, and an infectious groove, making it not just a 90s favorite but a song that still resonates across generations.
Its feel-good nature, lyrical accessibility, and rhythmic allure continue to bring joy to listeners more than three decades after its release. Whether rediscovered on a retro playlist or introduced to new audiences via film or television, “Two Princes” remains one of the most beloved songs of its era.