John Prine was an American singer-songwriter known for his witty and poignant folk and country songs. He was born on October 10, 1946, in Maywood, Illinois, and passed away on April 7, 2020. Prine’s music often touched on themes of love, life’s struggles, and the human condition, earning him widespread acclaim and a devoted fan base.
He released numerous albums throughout his career, with some of his most famous songs including “Angel from Montgomery,” “Sam Stone,” “Hello in There,” and “Paradise.” Prine’s songwriting was praised for its storytelling quality and emotional depth, earning him comparisons to songwriting legends like Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash.
Prine’s influence extended beyond just his music; he was also admired for his humble demeanor and his ability to connect with audiences through his lyrics. His legacy continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike, and his songs remain beloved by many around the world.
1. Lake Marie
“Lake Marie” is one of John Prine’s most acclaimed songs, featured on his 1995 album “Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings.” The song is notable for its intricate storytelling and vivid imagery, as well as its blending of personal narrative with broader social commentary.
“Lake Marie” tells the tale of two couples, one of them presumably the narrator and his wife, and their experiences at Lake Marie, a real location in Illinois. The song weaves together themes of love, loss, violence, and redemption against the backdrop of the lake.
Throughout the song, Prine paints a vivid picture of the characters and their surroundings, drawing the listener into their world. The narrative takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged and reflecting Prine’s skill as a storyteller.
“Lake Marie” showcases Prine’s ability to tackle complex themes with nuance and depth, making it a standout track in his extensive catalog of songs. It’s often praised for its rich storytelling and emotional resonance, cementing its status as one of Prine’s most beloved compositions.
2. Clay Pigeons
“Clay Pigeons” is a song written by Blaze Foley, an American singer-songwriter known for his raw, heartfelt music. While Blaze Foley wrote and performed the song, it gained wider recognition when it was covered by John Prine, among others.
The song features poignant lyrics that touch on themes of loneliness, longing, and the human condition. It’s characterized by its simple yet evocative imagery and its bittersweet melody.
In “Clay Pigeons,” the narrator reflects on his life and experiences, expressing a sense of resignation and acceptance of the ups and downs that come with it. The song’s title refers to clay pigeons used in shooting sports, serving as a metaphor for the challenges and struggles faced in life.
John Prine’s rendition of “Clay Pigeons” is particularly notable for its emotional depth and sincerity. His interpretation captures the essence of the song’s themes, earning praise from fans and critics alike.
Overall, “Clay Pigeons” is a timeless folk song that resonates with listeners for its authenticity and universal themes.
3. Summer’s End
“Summer’s End” is a song by John Prine, featured on his final album released during his lifetime, “The Tree of Forgiveness,” which came out in 2018. The song is a beautiful and melancholic reflection on the passage of time, the changing seasons, and the bittersweet nature of life itself.
In “Summer’s End,” Prine’s lyrics poignantly capture the feeling of nostalgia and reflection that often accompanies the end of summer. The song’s melody is both haunting and comforting, evoking a sense of longing and introspection.
The lyrics speak to themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, as the narrator reflects on memories of summers past and contemplates the future. There’s a sense of acceptance and resignation woven throughout the song, as Prine sings about the inevitability of change and the need to appreciate life’s fleeting moments.
“Summer’s End” is widely regarded as one of the standout tracks on “The Tree of Forgiveness,” showcasing Prine’s ability to craft deeply emotional and introspective songs that resonate with listeners on a profound level. It’s a testament to Prine’s songwriting prowess and his enduring legacy as one of America’s greatest songwriters.
4. Angel from Montgomery
“Angel from Montgomery” is one of John Prine’s most famous and beloved songs, originally released on his self-titled debut album in 1971. The song has since become a classic in folk and Americana music, covered by numerous artists across different genres.
The song’s lyrics are a poignant reflection on longing, regret, and the search for redemption. The narrator, often assumed to be a middle-aged woman, expresses a desire to escape her mundane life and find a sense of purpose and fulfillment. The imagery in the song vividly portrays the narrator’s yearning for something more, likening her situation to being stuck in a prison or living in a dream that she can’t wake up from.
The chorus, with its memorable line “Make me an angel that flies from Montgomery,” has become iconic, capturing the longing for freedom and transformation that permeates the song.
“Angel from Montgomery” is celebrated for its evocative storytelling, emotive melody, and universal themes that resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a testament to Prine’s songwriting genius and his ability to craft songs that touch the hearts of millions.
5. Sam Stone
“Sam Stone” is a powerful and poignant song written by John Prine, featured on his self-titled debut album released in 1971. The song is known for its stark portrayal of the struggles faced by veterans returning from war, particularly addressing issues of addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The lyrics of “Sam Stone” tell the story of a soldier who returns home from the Vietnam War only to find himself grappling with addiction to drugs and the emotional scars of his experiences in combat. The chorus, with its haunting repetition of “There’s a hole in Daddy’s arm where all the money goes,” paints a vivid picture of the toll that addiction takes on both Sam Stone and his family.
The song’s stark realism and compassionate portrayal of its subject matter have resonated deeply with listeners over the years. It’s often regarded as one of Prine’s most powerful compositions, shining a light on the often-overlooked struggles faced by veterans and their families.
“Sam Stone” has been covered by numerous artists and has become a classic in folk and Americana music, solidifying its place as a timeless piece of songwriting that continues to move and inspire audiences.
6. Hello in There
“Hello in There” is a song written by John Prine, featured on his self-titled debut album released in 1971. The song is a poignant reflection on loneliness, aging, and the importance of empathy and connection.
In “Hello in There,” Prine tells the story of an elderly couple living in a small town, who are largely ignored and forgotten by their neighbors. The narrator observes the couple’s quiet existence and reflects on the passage of time, as well as the tendency of people to overlook the struggles and humanity of others, especially the elderly.
The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “You know that old trees just grow stronger / And old rivers grow wilder every day / Old people just grow lonesome / Waiting for someone to say, ‘Hello in there, hello,'” captures the underlying theme of the song – the need for compassion and understanding towards those who may be feeling isolated or forgotten.
“Hello in There” is celebrated for its poignant lyrics, emotive melody, and universal message of empathy and connection. It’s considered one of Prine’s signature songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, cementing its status as a timeless classic in folk and Americana music.
7. Illegal Smile
“Illegal Smile” is a song by John Prine, featured on his self-titled debut album released in 1971. The song is known for its whimsical and humorous tone, as well as its ambiguous lyrics that touch on themes of escapism and counterculture.
In “Illegal Smile,” Prine sings about the simple pleasure of smiling, even when it might not be entirely appropriate or socially acceptable. The song’s lyrics playfully reference the act of smoking marijuana, with lines like “But it don’t cost very much, and it lasts a long while / Won’t you please tell the man I didn’t kill anyone.”
While the song’s title and lyrics suggest a connection to drug culture, Prine himself has stated that the song is not specifically about drug use but rather about finding joy and happiness in life’s small pleasures.
“Illegal Smile” is celebrated for its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and lighthearted charm. It’s become a fan favorite and a staple of Prine’s live performances, showcasing his knack for combining humor with deeper themes in his songwriting.
8. Paradise
“Paradise” is a song written by John Prine, originally released on his self-titled debut album in 1971. The song is one of Prine’s most well-known and beloved compositions, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
“Paradise” tells the story of Prine’s family’s hometown of Paradise, Kentucky, which was devastated by strip mining. The song reflects on the environmental and social impact of coal mining on rural communities, as well as the loss of a way of life.
“Paradise” is celebrated for its poignant lyrics, evocative imagery, and memorable melody. It’s often regarded as a classic example of Prine’s storytelling prowess and his ability to address complex social issues with empathy and insight.
The song has resonated with listeners for decades, inspiring discussions about environmental conservation, the impact of industry on rural communities, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “Paradise” remains a timeless anthem for those who cherish the memories of a bygone era and lament the changes brought about by progress.
9. That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round
“That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round” is a song written by John Prine, featured on his album “Bruised Orange,” released in 1978. The song is characterized by its upbeat melody, playful lyrics, and wry observations about life’s unpredictable nature.
In “That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round,” Prine sings about the absurdities and ironies of everyday life, from the mundane to the extraordinary. The song’s lyrics touch on a variety of topics, from love and relationships to the quirks of human behavior and the passage of time.
The chorus, with its catchy refrain of “That’s the way the world goes ’round / You’re up one day, the next you’re down,” captures the essence of the song’s message – the cyclical and often unpredictable nature of life itself.
“That’s the Way the World Goes ‘Round” is celebrated for its clever wordplay, infectious melody, and relatable themes. It’s become one of Prine’s most popular and enduring songs, beloved by fans for its humor and wisdom. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, cementing its status as a classic in the folk and Americana canon.
10. Far From Me
“Far From Me” is a song written by John Prine, featured on his album “Bruised Orange,” released in 1978. The song is a poignant exploration of love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human relationships.
In “Far From Me,” Prine sings from the perspective of someone who is grappling with the end of a romantic relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of longing and regret as the narrator reflects on the distance that has grown between them and their partner. Lines like “There’s just one thing that I ask of you / Just one thing for me / Please forget you knew my name, my darling, Sugar Kane” capture the raw emotion and vulnerability of the situation.
The song’s melody is understated yet powerful, perfectly complementing the bittersweet lyrics. Prine’s emotive delivery adds depth and authenticity to the song, making it resonate with listeners on a personal level.
“Far From Me” is widely regarded as one of Prine’s standout compositions, showcasing his ability to capture complex emotions with honesty and grace. It’s a testament to his songwriting prowess and his enduring legacy as one of America’s greatest storytellers.