John Prine was an American singer-songwriter known for his distinctive voice, witty lyrics, and unique blend of country, folk, and rock music. He was born in 1946 in Maywood, Illinois and began his music career in the late 1960s, performing at open mic nights in Chicago.
Prine’s music often dealt with themes of love, loss, and everyday life, and his songs were characterized by their simple yet poignant lyrics and memorable melodies. Some of his most famous songs include “Angel from Montgomery,” “Paradise,” and “Sam Stone.”
Throughout his career, Prine won multiple Grammy Awards and was widely recognized as one of the greatest songwriters of his generation. His music has been covered by numerous other artists, including Johnny Cash, Bonnie Raitt, and Jason Isbell.
In addition to his music career, Prine was a beloved figure in the folk music community and was known for his generous spirit and kindness. He passed away in 2020 due to complications from COVID-19, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important and influential musicians of his time. Today, John Prine’s music continues to inspire and delight fans around the world.
1. “Illegal Smile”
This track is one of the best works by John Prine. The lyrics are catchy and evoke a feeling of nostalgia. The song talks about smiling in tough situations, even when one is not supposed to. This track has been extensively used in pop culture and is still relevant today. With its catchy tune and strong lyrics, “Illegal Smile” remains a timeless classic.
The popularity of this track can be attributed to Prine’s powerful storytelling abilities. He uses his voice to capture the emotions of his listeners, taking them on a journey through his songs. His unique perspective on various subjects adds an extra dimension to his music that sets him apart from other artists.
It is interesting to note that this song was initially perceived as being about marijuana use, which made it controversial at the time of its release. However, John Prine himself clarified that it was merely about smiling during tough times and did not have any relation to drug use.
If you are looking for a timeless classic with soulful lyrics and a catchy tune, then “Illegal Smile” should definitely be on your playlist. It leaves an impression on anyone who listens to it, making it a significant part of John Prine's musical legacy.
If John Prine wrote a breakup song, it would be called 'You Never Even Called Me By My Name' because apparently 'I Can't Believe You're Gone and I'm Alone Again' was too subtle.
2. “You Never Even Called Me By My Name”
This John Prine classic, known for its clever wordplay and conversational storytelling, tells the tale of a man who asks his wife to call him by the name of a deceased country music legend.
Despite its humorous tone, the song still manages to strike a chord with listeners thanks to Prine's signature blend of wit and heart.
Listening to 'Mental Cruelty' is like watching a train wreck – you can't look away, but you're also not quite sure if you should be laughing or crying.
3. “Mental Cruelty”
This John Prine gem explores the darker realities of relationships. An heart-wrenching song, "Mental Cruelty" beautifully captures how much pain and hurt one can inflict upon another person through words, actions, indifference or deceit. Prine's lyrics paint a vivid picture of how mental cruelty can destroy not just the victim's trust but also their own sense of self-worth. The haunting melody complements the lyrics brilliantly and allows the listener to fully immerse themselves in the melancholic soulfulness of this song.
As John Prine sings "Mental cruelty, it takes so long, to break down someone's defences strong", we realize how damaging words can be. This is a subtle reminder for all of us to be kind and tactful with our words. Mental abuse leaves an invisible scar on our souls that might never go away completely. It is essential to treat people with respect and dignity.
A lesser-known track from his 1991 album – 'The Missing Years,' "Mental Cruelty" remains a favourite among die-hard fans because of its universal appeal. It has been covered by various artists over the years and continues to inspire listeners worldwide.
If you haven't heard this masterpiece yet, add it to your playlist today! You don't want to miss out on this exceptional piece of music that has touched millions worldwide.
Even if you've never been to Montgomery, you'll still want an Angel of your own after listening to this John Prine classic.
4. “Angel From Montgomery”
This iconic song by John Prine, which was released in the early 1970s, is a melancholic yet soul-stirring reflection of a woman's struggle to find meaning and purpose in her life. Through his evocative lyrics and haunting melody, Prine touches upon the themes of loneliness, heartbreak, and existential angst. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Bonnie Raitt and Susan Tedeschi, but it remains one of Prine's most enduring compositions.
As Prine masterfully weaves his story through his lyrics, he paints a vivid picture of a woman who feels trapped in her mundane existence and yearns for something more profound. The poignant chorus – "Angel from Montgomery, make me an angel that flies from Montgomery" – captures the protagonist's longing for transcendence and escape. It is a testament to Prine's artistry that he can convey such complex emotions with simplicity and grace.
One fascinating aspect of this song is its origin story – Prine wrote it after overhearing an old woman complaining about her life in a nursing home. According to legend, she told Prine that if she was an angel from Montgomery, she could fly away from her problems. This anecdote lends even greater poignancy to the lyrics and underscores Prine's gift for finding beauty in unlikely places.
For listeners seeking guidance on how to appreciate this song fully, we suggest taking the time to reflect on its message and letting its haunting melody wash over you. Pay attention to the interplay between the guitar riffs and vocal phrasing and try to identify how they work together to create a mood. And finally, listen closely to the lyrics – they're imbued with wisdom and insight into the human condition that few artists can match.
John Prine puts a silver lining on life's darker moments with 'Everything Is Cool' – because sometimes denial is the best therapy.
5. “Everything Is Cool”
This song is a timeless classic from John Prine's 1991 album 'The Missing Years'. It's a seemingly lighthearted tune with a deeper meaning, showcasing John's masterful storytelling ability. In 'Everything Is Cool', he explores the concept of masking one's pain and struggles by putting up a brave face and using humor as a coping mechanism. The catchy chorus adds to the charm of the song, making it an instant favorite among fans.
As usual, John's lyrics are poignant and thought-provoking. He addresses themes of depression, death, and loneliness in a way that is relatable yet not overly sentimental. The song connects with listeners on many levels, highlighting the universality of human emotions.
Interestingly, despite its upbeat melody and playful tone, 'Everything Is Cool' ends on a somewhat somber note. This unexpected shift adds depth to the song and reinforces its message about the need for honesty and vulnerability in relationships.
If you're looking for a feel-good tune that also has substance, give 'Everything Is Cool' a listen. It’s sure to leave you with a smile on your face and some food for thought.
Don't miss out on this gem in John Prine's impressive discography – add it to your playlist today!
John Prine proves that love is blind, deaf, and apparently immune to the scent of garlic in the charmingly irreverent 'In Spite of Ourselves'.
6. “In Spite of Ourselves”
This particular John Prine masterpiece finds him singing a duet with Iris DeMent. A classic love song, “In Spite of Ourselves” boasts an amalgamation of witty lyrics and a memorable melody that showcases Prine’s incredible storytelling abilities. The song highlights the strength of unconditional love even if it means accepting each other's faults. It remains one of his most beloved songs, demonstrating a relaxed and charming beauty with every listen.
The track is often played at weddings or anniversaries as it feels personal and relatable to those experiencing the depth of pure love. The duet is filled with warmth, humor, and honesty that anyone can connect with on some level. “In Spite of Ourselves” may not be one of Prine's commercially successful hits, yet its nostalgic and endearing qualities have made it a fan favorite for years to come.
One interesting fact about "In Spite of Ourselves" is that it has been used in several popular movies such as 'Wedding Crashers' and 'Up In The Air.' This exposure has helped make the song even more popular among younger generations who appreciate its timeless nature. Its playful, honest message strikes a significant chord with listeners worldwide as they embrace the power and simplicity of true love in all its forms.
Some humans aren't human, but John Prine's songwriting is always top-notch.
7. “Some Humans Ain’t Human”
This song highlights the dark side of humanity, where people act on their selfish impulses and harm others without any remorse. John Prine deeply questions human nature and morality, painting a vivid picture of how some individuals lack empathy, compassion and the ability to recognize pain in others. “Some Humans Ain’t Human” is a powerful masterpiece that exposes the harsh reality of our world.
The song lyrically addresses topics such as environmental destruction, racism, political corruption and greed. Prine's sarcastic tone highlights the absurdity of these issues and provokes thought around taking responsibility as humans by being more empathetic towards one another and our planet.
It's interesting to note that this song was originally written in response to the 9/11 attacks, but it's socially relevant even today. The track was featured in his album 'Fair & Square' released in 2005.
As one listens carefully to this musical gem that criticizes humanity for its wrongs, they come to realize how music can be transformative. It can truly shake us into awareness about injustices perpetrated by fellow humans while making us tap our feet or hum along with conviction.
Warning: listening to 'Sam Stone' may result in unexpected emotions, such as sadness, introspection, and the sudden urge to hug a veteran.
8. “Sam Stone”
This entry at number eight on the list of the best John Prine songs of all time tells the tragic story of a soldier's return from Vietnam, who falls into heroin addiction. A variation of "Sam Stone," this song evokes deep emotions through its lyrics and melody. The haunting tune highlights the heartbreaking reality of soldiers' struggles after returning from war, making it an exceptional piece in John Prine's repertoire. In addition to its undeniable emotional power, "Sam Stone" also showcases Prine's storytelling prowess and his unique ability to extract beauty from pain. This masterpiece stands as one of the greatest anti-war songs ever written, making it a must-listen for anyone who appreciates music with a message.
Listening to 'Lake Marie' is like diving into a deep, dark lake…you never know what you'll find lurking beneath the surface.
9. “Lake Marie”
This entrancing John Prine classic, "Lake Marie", stands out as one of the best. The soothing rhythm and captivating lyrics transport listeners to a serene, tranquil setting. John Prine's evocative storytelling and raw emotion shine through the song.
The song features the story of two couples in Wisconsin, whose love stories intermix on Lake Marie. “There beneath us was a lake/And on that lake I saw her face/She smiled at me, she said, ‘You’re not alone.’” These moving lyrics resonate with everyone who has experienced love.
Interestingly, Lake Marie is a real place in Illinois; it provides an excellent backdrop to Prine's tale of love and intrigue. “Because orange birds flash from the hedge / And vanish into a sky of sleepless turquoise blue / Feeling like running again…” These lyrics evoke strong visual images.
Pro Tip: To experience the full essence of this legendary song, listen to it while sitting by a lakeside at twilight – pure magic!
Summer may be ending, but John Prine's music will keep us in a perpetual state of warm nostalgia.
10. “Summer’s End”
This track is a fitting inclusion in the list of the top 10 John Prine songs. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics make it a standout song in his repertoire. The track beautifully captures the feelings of melancholy and reflection that come with the changing of seasons. The gentle acoustic guitar strumming complements Prine’s plaintive vocals, making for an emotional experience for listeners.
As one of the tracks on Prine’s final album, “The Tree of Forgiveness,” Summer’s End has been hailed as among his very best works. At age 71, Prine approached this last album with great introspection, and this particular track showcases his storytelling prowess and superb songwriting skill.
While Summer's End may not have charted high on music charts, it remains a beloved classic in John Prine's vast discography. It's a testament to his ability to craft emotionally charged tunes that touch people's souls. Even after his passing in 2020, this song continues to resonate with fans all over the world who have been captivated by its beauty and lyrical genius.
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.
