Prince Gave Jack White Priceless Advice on Playing Guitar

The pair only met once, but what the Purple One said resonated with the newly inducted Hall of Famer

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Jack White, the renowned guitarist and founder of Third Man Records, revealed that he only met Prince once at an after-party, but the advice the Purple One gave him has stuck with him. Prince told White, "No one will ever tell you how you play your guitar, Jack," which White says has been solid advice throughout his career.

Why it matters

The anecdote highlights the shared artistic sensibilities between White and Prince, two musicians known for their perpetual sonic and aesthetic reinventions. It also underscores their mutual commitment to artistic expression and not being dictated to by others, even when it comes to their guitar playing.

The details

White had told talk show host Stephen Colbert about the encounter, noting that at the time, he was sporting striking blue hair to match the look and feel of his fourth studio album, "Fear of the Dawn." White also revealed that his Third Man Records had pressed an unreleased Prince album called "Camille" in 2022, further cementing the connection between the two artists.

  • White met Prince at an after-party, though the exact date is unknown.
  • In 2022, Third Man Records pressed an unreleased Prince album called "Camille".

The players

Jack White

A renowned guitarist and founder of Third Man Records, known for his perpetual sonic and aesthetic reinventions.

Prince

The legendary musician, also known as the "Purple One," who was known for his own artistic reinventions and commitment to creative expression.

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What they’re saying

“No one will ever tell you how you play your guitar, Jack,”

— Prince

The takeaway

The advice Prince gave to Jack White, to never let anyone dictate how he plays his guitar, is a testament to the shared artistic values and commitment to creative freedom that the two musicians shared. It's a reminder that true artistry often comes from staying true to one's own unique vision and style, regardless of outside pressure or expectations.