John Prine: In Spite of Himself

John Prine is a songwriters songwriter who has created critically acclaimed albums and earned many honors. His songs have been covered by scores of artists and have influenced everyone from Roger McGuinn to Kacey Musgraves. Eddie Huffman traces the long arc of Prines musical career, beginning with his early successes and leading to a rich and varied career writing songs that other people have made famous. This thorough, entertaining treatment gives Prine his due as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2022
Publisher: University of Texas Press

John Prine, a songwriter's songwriter, has created a diverse range of songs that span from the heartfelt and lyrical "Angel from Montgomery" to the classic country music parody "You Never Even Called Me by My Name." Over five decades, Prine has released critically acclaimed albums such as John Prine, Bruised Orange, and The Missing Year, earning him numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards, a Lifetime Achievement Award for Songwriting from the Americana Music Association, and induction into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame. His songs have been covered by a wide array of artists, including Johnny Cash, Miranda Lambert, Bette Midler, and 10,000 Maniacs, and have left an indelible influence on musicians such as Roger McGuinn and Kacey Musgraves. In his early years, Prine was hailed as the "new Dylan," and he remains a passionate fan of Bob Dylan.

In his book, Eddie Huffman delves into the remarkable career of John Prine, exploring the journey from his early successes to his establishment of his own record label, Oh Boy Records. Huffman recounts the stories behind Prine's most famous songs, highlighting the humorous anecdotes that often accompany them. He provides a comprehensive analysis of Prine's albums, discussing both the brilliant records and the less successful ventures that contributed to his musical growth. Through this thorough and engaging treatment, Huffman pays tribute to John Prine as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation.

John Prine's musical career began with his early hits, which paradoxically led him away from stardom and towards a rich and varied career as a songwriter. His songs have been covered by countless artists, from legends like Johnny Cash and Miranda Lambert to contemporary stars like Bette Midler and 10,000 Maniacs. Prine's influence extends beyond his own music, as his songs have been embraced by artists across various genres, including folk, rock, and pop. His lyrics are known for their poetic craftsmanship, storytelling ability, and deep emotional resonance, making him a beloved figure in the music industry.

Throughout his career, John Prine has faced challenges and setbacks, but his resilience and determination have always propelled him forward. He has weathered the ups and downs of the music industry, never losing sight of his passion for music and his commitment to his craft. His dedication to his music has earned him a loyal fan base and a place in the hearts of music enthusiasts worldwide.

In conclusion, John Prine is a songwriting legend whose music has touched the lives of countless people. His ability to create songs that are both poignant and humorous, and his unwavering dedication to his craft have earned him the respect and admiration of music lovers around the world. Through his words and music, Prine has left an indelible mark on the world of music, and his legacy will continue to inspire and influence future generations of songwriters.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 153 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781477325933