I'm thankful enough or blessed enough to be able to say that Miles Davis was a friend when he was alive, and he was a wonderful mentor and really, really funny, you know.

Prince’s quote reflects his deep gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to have known and learned from the legendary jazz musician Miles Davis. By saying he was “thankful enough” and “blessed enough,” Prince acknowledges how rare and meaningful it was for him to have had Davis as a friend and mentor. This speaks to the rare bond they shared, which not only had professional significance but also personal warmth, as Davis was also described as being funny and approachable.

The mention of Davis as a mentor highlights the profound influence the iconic musician had on Prince's life and career. Davis, known for his innovation and boundary-pushing artistry, undoubtedly played a key role in shaping Prince's own approach to music and creativity. For Prince, having Davis as a mentor wasn’t just about technical skills or musical knowledge—it was about the wisdom and insight he offered, as well as the personal connection they shared.

Prince’s description of Davis being really, really funny adds a humanizing element to the legendary musician's persona. It shows that beyond his immense musical genius, Davis had a sense of humor and a personality that made him approachable and enjoyable to be around. This paints a fuller picture of their relationship, making it clear that their connection wasn’t just professional—it was also built on shared moments of laughter and camaraderie.

The origin of this sentiment comes from Prince’s reflections on his interactions with Davis and the deep impact that the jazz icon had on him. As one of the most influential musicians of his time, Prince’s admiration for Davis went beyond mere respect for his musical ability—it extended to a personal bond that shaped his outlook on both music and life. This quote encapsulates the gratitude and reverence Prince felt for the opportunity to have such a profound relationship with a musical legend.