As you've probably heard, singer-songwriter John Prine passed away Tuesday, after being critically ill with COVID-19.
Since his first album was released in 1971, Prine's gentle humor and way with words have been an inspiration to many. Some members of IPR's staff each picked a favorite John Prine song to share.
It was hard to pick just one! Rest in peace, John.
Paradise
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ediaZ5DhYjw
"'Paradise' has to be my favorite John Prine song. It's written out of his lived experience. It has a wonderfully singable chorus and a strong environmental message. The wordplay is not as flashy as some of his songs, but the decription of a town that's been 'remembered so many times that my memories are worn' is priceless. John's soul should be rolling on up to that Rochester dam just about now." -Karen Impola, Folk Tree Host
Angel From Montgomery
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtFCUIsl4Yc
"I have to go with a pretty obvious choice here - 'Angel From Montgomery.' It's just an amazing expression of desire, yearning and regret. It's a masterpiece, contains some brilliant lines and is one of his most covered tunes. I believe Bonnie Raitt referred to it as one of the most important songs she's ever recorded." -Al Schares, Music Director
Sam Stone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLVWEYUqGew&feature=youtu.be
"Prine’s first album remains one of the most impressive debuts ever. 'Sam Stone,' despite its bleak subject matter, is a great sing-along and says so much." -Mark Simmet, Studio One Host
In Spite Of Ourselves (Feat. Iris DeMent)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gA-vD5pyuS4&feature=youtu.be
"It's an incredibly sweet song that's known for its off-color lyrics, which are so important to the song. It's easy to find yourself laughing along, then pausing and saying, 'yeah, that's the kind of love I want.'" -Tony Dehner, Studio One Host
Illegal Smile
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z78mQehnmCA
"'Illegal Smile' is a rousing sing-a-long, laced with Prine's signature gritty, down-to-earth narrative in his lyrics. The track is a good reminder to take things easy when you're down on your luck, a message that resonates in trying times such as these." -Cecilia Mitchell, Studio One Host
Knocking On Your Screen Door
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAYoWePzQ2c
"We shouldn't physically drop in on neighbors right now, but we should definitely check in on them. Nobody made us feel why more than John Prine. In his song 'Knocking On Your Screen Door,' an older man who 'once had a family' could 'use some help here with a can of pork and beans.' The man is 'thinking it's your business, but you don't got to answer.' John Prine would have answered, every time." -Barney Sherman, Classical Host
All The Best
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kP3_yJIa_fY
"I can't really pick a favorite... 'Lake Marie,' 'Paradise,' 'Bruised Orange (Chain of Sorrow)'... there's just too many. But I find 'All The Best' to be a perfect song, and I can't pick up a guitar and not play it." -Clay Masters, Morning Edition Host
Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRCLHBhZPQ4&feature=youtu.be
"Flag Decal is one of the best protest songs ever penned and certainly one of my favorites. It’s stayed just as relevant and biting in the 21st century as it was during the Vietnam Era. Only Prine could write such an upbeat and humorous song about the damage that empty patriotism can do to one’s soul." -Dallas Tuttle, IT Specialist
