John Prine, an American folk singer-songwriter born on October 10, 1946, left an indelible mark on the world of music with his poignant and witty storytelling. Hailing from Maywood, Illinois, Prine’s career spanned five decades, earning him acclaim as one of the most influential songwriters in the folk and country genres.
Prine’s songwriting prowess was characterized by a unique blend of humor, compassion, and keen observation. His lyrics delved into the human experience, tackling everything from love and loss to societal issues and the everyday struggles of ordinary people. Songs like “Angel from Montgomery,” “Sam Stone,” and “Hello in There” showcased his ability to craft emotionally resonant narratives that transcended musical boundaries.
Despite his humble beginnings as a mailman, Prine’s self-titled debut album in 1971 quickly established him as a rising star in the folk scene. Over the years, he garnered multiple Grammy Awards and continued to release critically acclaimed albums, including “Sweet Revenge,” “Bruised Orange,” and “The Tree of Forgiveness.”
Prine’s enduring legacy extends beyond his own performances, as his songs have been covered by a diverse array of artists, further solidifying his impact on the fabric of American music. His passing in 2020 was mourned by fans and fellow musicians alike, but John Prine’s music continues to resonate, offering solace and inspiration to generations of listeners.
1. Angel from Montgomery
“Angel from Montgomery” stands as one of John Prine’s most iconic and enduring songs. Released on his 1971 self-titled debut album, the song is a poignant exploration of longing, regret, and the desire for escape. The narrative unfolds through the perspective of a middle-aged woman trapped in a loveless marriage, yearning for a way out.
The protagonist reflects on her unfulfilled dreams and contemplates a life where she is free from the monotony and disappointments of her current situation. The recurring line, “Make me an angel that flies from Montgomery,” serves as a powerful metaphor for liberation and the hope for a better life.
Bonnie Raitt’s 1974 cover of “Angel from Montgomery” brought the song even more widespread recognition, amplifying its emotional resonance. Raitt’s soulful rendition, characterized by her expressive vocals and slide guitar, added a layer of intensity to Prine’s already evocative lyrics.
The song has since become a folk and country classic, covered by numerous artists across genres. Its enduring popularity attests to Prine’s ability to craft timeless, universal stories that resonate with listeners on a deep emotional level. “Angel from Montgomery” remains a testament to Prine’s storytelling prowess and his lasting impact on the musical landscape.
2. Illegal Smile
“Illegal Smile” is a whimsical and lighthearted song by John Prine, featured on his self-titled debut album released in 1971. Known for its clever wordplay and playful melody, the song is a reflection on finding joy and solace in the midst of life’s challenges.
The title, “Illegal Smile,” alludes to the act of smiling for no apparent reason, perhaps in defiance of societal norms or in the face of difficulties. Prine’s lyrics are infused with a sense of humor and a carefree spirit as he describes the simple pleasure of wearing an “illegal smile” to brighten his day.
The song showcases Prine’s ability to blend humor with insightful observations about the human experience. Its upbeat and catchy melody, combined with Prine’s distinctive vocal delivery, contributed to the song’s popularity and enduring appeal.
“Illegal Smile” became a fan favorite and is often celebrated for its infectious charm and the way it captures a sense of playfulness and resilience. As with many of Prine’s compositions, the song reflects his unique approach to storytelling, using humor as a lens to explore deeper aspects of life and emotion.
3. Sam Stone
“Sam Stone” is a poignant and powerful song by the late American singer-songwriter John Prine. The song appears on Prine’s self-titled debut album, released in 1971. “Sam Stone” is known for its evocative storytelling and compassionate portrayal of a troubled Vietnam War veteran.
The song tells the story of Sam Stone, a soldier who returns home from the war physically and emotionally scarred. It delves into the challenges Sam faces in readjusting to civilian life, ultimately succumbing to addiction and hardship. The chorus captures the heart of the narrative with the line “There’s a hole in Daddy’s arm where all the money goes, Jesus Christ died for nothin’, I suppose.”
John Prine’s ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and empathy is a hallmark of his songwriting. “Sam Stone” is often regarded as one of his most affecting compositions, addressing the struggles faced by veterans and the toll of war on individuals and families.
John Prine’s career spanned decades, and he was widely celebrated for his storytelling, humor, and distinctive voice. “Sam Stone” remains a timeless testament to his songwriting prowess and his ability to tackle difficult subjects with grace and compassion.
4. Paradise
“Paradise” is one of John Prine’s most beloved and widely recognized songs, capturing the essence of his storytelling prowess. Released on his debut album in 1971, the song is a nostalgic reflection on the environmental impact of coal mining on his family’s hometown of Paradise, Kentucky.
In “Paradise,” Prine paints a vivid picture of a once-idyllic town transformed by the coal industry. The lyrics lament the destruction of the natural landscape, describing how the coal company’s activities altered the geography, leaving scars on the land. The chorus features the poignant refrain, “And Daddy, won’t you take me back to Muhlenberg County, down by the Green River, where paradise lay.”
The song is notable for its evocative storytelling, combining a sense of melancholy with a deep connection to a disappearing way of life. Prine’s ability to convey complex emotions through simple and relatable narratives shines in “Paradise.”
Over the years, “Paradise” has been covered by numerous artists, further solidifying its status as a folk classic. The song’s enduring popularity attests to Prine’s skill in crafting timeless tales that resonate with listeners on both a personal and societal level. Through “Paradise,” Prine leaves a lasting legacy as a storyteller who brought attention to the human and environmental costs of industrial progress.
5. Hello in There
“Hello in There” is a poignant and reflective song written and performed by the late American singer-songwriter John Prine. It was released on his self-titled debut album in 1971. The song is known for its empathetic lyrics and Prine’s ability to capture the human experience with simplicity and depth.
“Hello in There” tells the story of an elderly couple and explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the passage of time. The narrator encourages listeners to empathize with the elderly, acknowledging their experiences and the need for human connection. The refrain, “You know that old trees just grow stronger, and old rivers grow wilder every day. But old people just grow lonesome, waiting for someone to say, ‘Hello in there, hello,'” encapsulates the emotional heart of the song.
John Prine’s gentle delivery and heartfelt storytelling made “Hello in There” a standout track in his repertoire. The song’s universal themes resonate with listeners, and it has been praised for its compassion and insight into the lives of those who may be overlooked.
John Prine’s influence on the folk and Americana genres is profound, and “Hello in There” remains a touching and timeless reflection on the human condition.
6. That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round
“That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round” is a song written and performed by the late American singer-songwriter John Prine. It was released on his 1978 album “Bruised Orange.” The song is known for its upbeat and whimsical tone, coupled with Prine’s clever and humorous lyrics.
In “That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round,” John Prine observes the unpredictable and often absurd nature of life. The lyrics touch on various aspects of the human experience, including love, work, and the day-to-day struggles that people face. The chorus reinforces the theme with the line “That’s the way that the world goes ’round; you’re up one day, the next you’re down.”
Prine’s delivery is characterized by his distinctive voice and a laid-back, conversational style. The song’s catchy melody and witty lyrics contributed to its popularity and critical acclaim.
Over the years, “That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round” has been covered by various artists, showcasing the enduring appeal of John Prine’s songwriting. His ability to blend humor with insightful observations about life made this song and others in his catalog beloved by fans and fellow musicians alike.
7. Souvenirs
“Souvenirs” is a reflective and introspective song by John Prine, featured on his 1972 album “Diamonds in the Rough.” The song explores the theme of memory and the bittersweet nature of revisiting the past.
In “Souvenirs,” Prine lyrically navigates through the remnants of a relationship, using tangible objects as metaphors for the intangible emotions and memories associated with love and loss. The chorus captures the essence of the song with the lines, “All the snow has turned to water; Christmas days have come and gone. Broken toys and faded colors are all that’s left to linger on.”
Prine’s poignant lyrics, combined with his soulful and emotive delivery, create a powerful narrative that resonates with listeners. The song’s stripped-down arrangement, featuring Prine’s acoustic guitar and heartfelt vocals, adds to its intimate and personal quality.
As with many of Prine’s compositions, “Souvenirs” showcases his ability to distill complex emotions into accessible and relatable verses. The song has become a fan favorite and exemplifies Prine’s enduring influence as a songwriter capable of capturing the universal aspects of the human experience. “Souvenirs” stands as a testament to Prine’s skill in using his craft to explore the intricate tapestry of memories and emotions.
8. Far From Me
“Far From Me” is a poignant and emotionally charged song by John Prine, featured on his 1971 self-titled debut album. The song delves into themes of heartbreak and the aftermath of a failed relationship, showcasing Prine’s ability to convey deep and complex emotions through his storytelling.
In “Far From Me,” Prine narrates the aftermath of a breakup, expressing a mix of resignation, regret, and a sense of longing. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love that has soured, and the protagonist grapples with the pain of separation. Lines like “And if wishes were horses, I’d have a ranch” capture the futile yearning for a reconciliation that seems out of reach.
The song is characterized by its melancholic melody and Prine’s raw, emotive vocals. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring Prine’s acoustic guitar and his evocative delivery, enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics.
“Far From Me” is a testament to Prine’s ability to explore the complexities of human relationships with a rare blend of sensitivity and authenticity. The song resonates with listeners for its universality, capturing the universal experience of heartbreak and the emotional aftermath of love gone awry. It stands as another example of Prine’s enduring legacy as a masterful storyteller in the realm of folk and Americana music.
9. Lake Marie
“Lake Marie” is a song by the late American singer-songwriter John Prine. It appears on his 1995 album “Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings.” “Lake Marie” is a narrative-driven song that weaves together various themes, including love, relationships, and personal reflection.
The song begins with a description of a lake and a woman named Marie. As the narrative unfolds, Prine incorporates a mix of personal anecdotes, observations, and vivid imagery. The storytelling is intricate, and the song’s structure allows Prine to explore different facets of the characters and their experiences.
Musically, “Lake Marie” features a blend of folk, rock, and Americana influences, characteristic of John Prine’s diverse songwriting style. The song’s atmospheric arrangement complements the storytelling, creating a captivating listening experience.
John Prine was celebrated for his ability to craft songs that combined humor, insight, and emotional depth. “Lake Marie” stands as a testament to his storytelling prowess and his unique approach to songwriting, which resonated with audiences for its authenticity and richness.
10. In Spite of Ourselves
“In Spite of Ourselves” is a delightful and humorous duet written by John Prine, released on his 1999 album of the same name. The song features Iris DeMent as Prine’s duet partner and showcases the duo’s chemistry in delivering a playful and cheeky narrative.
The lyrics of “In Spite of Ourselves” tell the story of a quirky and imperfect couple who, despite their flaws, manage to find happiness and love with each other. The song’s chorus celebrates the idea that love can triumph over imperfections, stating, “In spite of ourselves, we’ll end up a-sittin’ on a rainbow. Against all odds, honey, we’re the big door prize.”
The song’s charm lies in its witty lyrics, catchy melody, and the endearing vocal interplay between Prine and DeMent. The light-hearted and humorous tone makes it a standout track in Prine’s repertoire.
“In Spite of Ourselves” became one of John Prine’s most popular songs, and the album of the same name received critical acclaim. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Prine’s ability to capture the essence of love in all its imperfections while delivering it with a dose of humor and charm.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
