>boomers and gen x fanboys over him
>considered a musical genius
>listen to his vast and expansive discography
>only 3-5 are listenable, the rest is shit
Why was it ever up for debate that he was ever on MJ's level? MJ had more consistent material compared to Prince's quantity over quality method of releasing music, MJ had a better ear for hit and he was more selective.

Once grunge and gangsta rap took over, Prince quickly became irrelevant as a musician and was seen more as an eccentric celebrity. Everybody knew The Artist Formally Known as Prince, but no one who wasn't already a fan in the 80s cared or liked his music. His sound is dated. Being able to play instruments doesn't matter when your music sucks.