Prince Bodyguards: The Men Who Protected Prince Over the Years
This page documents the men who served as Prince’s bodyguards, working quietly behind the scenes to protect one of the most private and iconic artists in modern music. Prince was one of the most influential and recognizable artists in modern music history. Protecting someone of his stature required far more than physical presence—it demanded discretion, loyalty, situational awareness, and an understanding of trust.
Over the course of his career, more than 20 men personally served as Prince’s bodyguards and personal protectors. Their role extended beyond traditional security. They operated quietly in high-pressure environments that included concert venues, recording studios, private residences, and international travel.
This page exists to document and acknowledge the men who protected Prince over the years—often unseen, often unrecognized, yet essential to his safety.
What It Meant to Protect Prince
Prince’s security needs evolved across decades. From early performances to global tours and private moments away from the spotlight, each environment required a different approach.
Those entrusted with protecting Prince had to balance:
- Close-protection fundamentals
- Rapid decision-making under uncertainty
- Absolute discretion
- Respect for Prince’s independence and creative space
Protecting Prince was never about celebrity—it was about responsibility.
Prince’s Personal Protectors
(Listed in no particular order)
The following men personally protected Prince at different times throughout his career. Service timelines and responsibilities varied, but each individual listed here played a role in safeguarding him during specific chapters of his life.
- Ross “Rosie” Licata
- Charles “Big Chick” Huntsberry
- Wally Safford
- Harlan “Hucky” Austin
- Gilbert Davison
- William “Bill” Snouffer
- Duane Nelson
- Derrick Henry
- Joey Guzman
- Donald Cartwright
- Tracy Jacobs
- Marvin Bond
- Cody “Coco” Chilton
- Aaron Freeman
- Aaron Liepins
- Robert Blake
- Chuck Mauldin
- Earl Gabbidon
- Andre Augustine
- Trevor Allen
- Raul Sandoval
- Zachery “Scott” March
- Nasser Metcalfe
- Chris “Romeo” Gaither
- Julius Yancey
- Kirk Johnson
Each name on this list represents a period of service where trust, preparation, and judgment mattered.
A Quiet Brotherhood
Protecting Prince required more than strength or presence. It required awareness, adaptability, and restraint. Recognition was never the objective—effectiveness was.
While each protector came from a different background and era, they shared a common understanding: the mission always came first.
When “A Piece of Paper” Actually Matters
In some professions, credentials are optional. In others, preparation, trust, and real-world experience carry serious consequences.
I’ve spent decades working in environments where competence matters more than titles—and where misunderstanding that difference can be costly. Over time, I’ve seen how judgment, experience, and accountability often outweigh what’s written on paper.
A Note From Harlan “Hucky” Austin
There have been over 20 men who personally protected Prince over the years. This page is my humble acknowledgment of those ultimate warriors.
I am listed here as number four, and this is our story—not as headlines, not as myth, but as history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prince’s Bodyguards
How many bodyguards did Prince have? Over the course of his career, more than 20 men personally protected Prince at different times, depending on tours, locations, and security needs.
Did Prince have the same bodyguards his entire career? No. Prince’s security team evolved over time, with different protectors serving during different eras and circumstances.
Who was Prince’s most well-known bodyguard? Several members of Prince’s security team are well known within professional circles. Public recognition was never the goal—discretion and effectiveness were.
What made protecting Prince unique? Protecting Prince required balancing close protection, discretion, adaptability, and respect for his independence and creative process.