This page is where the good stuff is stashed or
"Yes Virginia, there really is a John Prine"
Grab a few fingers and write YOUR PRINE STORY HERE

updated: 3 September, 2008

Current Letters/Stories: SEPTEMBER 2008

Name: arrietty
Verify: x4kjs

My_Prine_Story

Here is my John Prine story and it is true. http://www.pubhousedialogues.com/index.php/velvethammer/2008/09/06/your_flag_decal_won_t_get_you_into_heave

Name: Bill B. - Used to be NE AR but now Louisville
Verify: x4kjs

My_Prine_Story

Been listening to JP since the early 70s. My married buddy was parked on a dark gravel road, drunk of course, with a girl he'd picked up earlier at a bar. It was very cold outside. He called me on his cell phone & begged me to bring him some gas because he'd been on empty for a long time had no cash on him. He was afraid he couldn't make it to the gas station. And of course he wanted to get some nookie. So I got the gas, drove out to where they were parked, poured in the gallon or two, and as I peeped in the foggy window of Tommy's car I saw a naked ugly girl look back at me like a deer in the park, as the chorus "..ain't it funny like an old broken bottle looks just like a diamond ring" roared from my Explorer, and I thought, "Yep."

Name: Suzanne - Seattle
Verify: x4kjs

My_Prine_Story

I just wanted to say 'Thank You'. I discovered JP's music about 10 years ago. Up until that very moment, my entire musical experience had been comprised of commercial radio. Even the college radio station at my major public university was owned by Clearchannel, there were no student DJs. At the time, I thought the radio was alright, but I knew there HAD to be more. It left me feeling empty. I had no real reason to believe it, but I was convinced that music could do more. It was around that time that I heard about this brand-new thing called "Napster" and went nosing around. Randomly pulling down songs by artists I'd never heard of, I downloaded "Angel from Montgomery", took a listen, and felt like my heart stopped. There are very few times in life that you can point to and say "There! That's the exact moment things changed!" Even more rare are the times when you get to realize that a change is happening at the very instant it does. In the 10 years since, I've become a musician and songwriter, I moved to a music-centric city and now volunteer at one of the best non-commercial radio stations in the country. I'm surrounded by music, musicians, and reality. Life is lush and full and satisfying...and it all started with that one song. So, Thank You, John! Your life's work has had a significant and measurable impact on my life, and I'm just some random person out in cyberspace. There are many, many more of us, invisible to the naked eye. PS Oh... and I buy my albums these days, I no longer download them. That was a necessity for a different time.

Name: Andy - UK
Verify: x4kjs

My_Prine_Story

I have just recently downloaded alot of your stuff from I-tunes, and been playing it at work, so I reckon you have another 20 odd new fans, all of them got right into it.. Made the day alot brighter...Nice one to ya ..

Name: Gary Greene - Rome Ga.
Verify: x4kjs

My_Prine_Story

Met so many people cause of you Marshall Chapman Jan Pruitt cosuintried to get us introduced years ago.We did a 2 hour radio show here in Rome I am sure 3 people listened too LOL My Favorite John Prine memory was Atlanta my son was pretty small maybe 87 or 88 .It was his first show John Prine show He fell asleep between his Mom and me and you played "Sleepy Eyed Boy". It touched me deeply Lanette ( Lemonette) On You Tube crossstiched a " Ain't it funny how an old broken Bottle looks just like a diamond ring: And we put the 3 guitar picks in a 5x7 frame that still hangs in my Musicroom. You can also hear how much you influenced my music by listening to me on C/dbaby.com The Grand Imagineer. We love ya man and everything you do. Gary May God Bless

Dan - Montreal
Became a fan in 1975, saw you for the first and only time since, in the mid '80's, open air concert, in the round, in the park, in Toronto. If you ever do make it to the east coast of Canada please make sure to add a date in Montreal. Pick the right venue and I'd be surprised if you didn't have to add a second show. Alot of fans up here. Anyway, you could just come visit ... lots of things to do here ... there's 1 nudie bar for every church ... Mark Twain visited once and said he " couldn't spit without hitting a church" Hope and pray you can make it here someday soon. Dan

Justin Blair from North River Nova Scotia
Hi John, we need you in the east coast of Canada!! Love for you to make an appearance, I'm a new but huge fan!, thanks.

davy bangor n. ireland
hi john, thanks for the music,it keeps me sane when times are rough,prine/bottle of wine on a friday night makes everything alright.seen three of your concerts in belfast ,please come back soon.keep on writing those songs.

Scott - Marta - Steve -Midge - Thornton PA
Labor Day 08, Sitting around the day after a jam-campfire-party in the Ryan's back yard listening to Fair and Square - perfect weather, chickens and goats, great outdoor speakers, sitting under the walnut tree - and the perfect tunes from our favorite John. We love your music -all of it - the new is as great as the old - we just love you, Man. We played many of your songs last night too, you are an inspiration and a teacher to so many, play on JP! Oh, and thanks to the jpshrine we have a better chance of getting that weird chord right!!Oh, and, Midge just wanted wanted to say that she is your youngest-oldest fan.

Michelle-Fort Greely, Alaska
Mr. Prine, Thanks so much for performing in Fairbanks, Alaska. My husband and I really enjoyed your performance, and we hope you come back again!

AUGUST 2008

jpparadise
ah, Mr. Prine. I keep reading how you want to play smaller venues - take heed. In British Columbia we have small venues. You can play in Kamloops, Prince George - stay the hell away from Vancouver/Victoria. 2010 is coming and the prices are not what one of the working class could afford ...i.e. hotel rooms, etc. However, if it be that you do not have a choice, well - sure, I'd come on the Greyhound to Vancouver! Please consider smaller venues in British Columbia. Oh yes, if you would like a real small venue - my backyard is opened As is the accommodation of a camper - it's free! teehee, I would not charge you - the big bull might - but I wouldn't. Yes, we have them free range cows/bulls around here, YIKES! You cannot teach a bull John Prine, you run!

LiZa, Anchorage AK
I LOVE YOU JP!! That was me who couldn't contain herself at your show here in Anchorage last week and yelled I LOVE YOU JP during a quiet moment. And such a gentleman, you said "well I love you too". haha. Thanks man. I needed that. JP, the first song I heard of yours was Christmas In Prison, back in the 70's and I fell in love you then. You have pulled me up so many times, I'd never be able to count them all. I have cried, laughed and just sat in deep thought with you. I read your anthology to Steve and I bawl like a baby. I really do love ya John, even though you've never known it - you've always been there for me. I so want to just give you a big hug before the first one of us buys the farm. Yer my boy JP! big alaskan hug for you. Liza

KELLY - INDIANA
DEAR ABBY(OOOPS) JOHN, I FIRST HEARD YOUR MUSIC IN THE LATE 70'S AND EARLY 80'S PLAYED BY FRIENDS AND SMALL BANDS IN BARS. YOUR MUSIC IS FUN AND EASY TO PLAY AND BEAUTIFUL AND SOULFUL AND I'M SURE YOU HAVE HEARD ALL THAT BEFORE. IT IS THAT YOUR MUSIC ALSO MAKES PEOPLE WANT TO SING AND PLAY TOO. I WISH I COULD PLAY GUITAR, I TRIED. I CAN'T. I LOVE TO SING TO YOUR SONGS..ALONE. I CAN'T REALLY SING EITHER. MY MOTHER WAS ALSO FROM KENTUCKY. SHE HAD 5 CHILDREN ON THE FLOOR OF A LOG CABIN BEFORE COMING NORTH TO INDIANA IN THE LATE 40'S. MY SISTER AND I WERE BORN IN INDIANA. IT IS BEAUTIFUL THERE AND MY FAMILIES LAND (NEARLY 900 ACRES THAT WAS PASSED DOWN THRU THE YEARS) ENDED UP BEING STRIP MINED. MY UNCLE JUST DIDN'T READ THE FINE FINE PRINT IN THE LEASE THAT SAID AFTER SO MANY LEASE RENEWALS THEY COULD STRIP IT. I HATE TO ADMIT IT BUT I HAD FORGOTTEN YOU, LIKE ALOT OF OTHER FUN HAPPY THINGS FROM MY YOUNGER DAYS, UNTIL I SAW YOU ON AUSTIN CITY LIMITS. I HEARD YOU FIRST AND RECOGNIZED YOUR VOICE, IT HAD CHANGED BUT WAS STILL YOU. I BOUGHT THE FAIR AND SQUARE CD AND THE "SOUNDSTAGE" DVD SO I HOPE I AM HELPING YOU OUT WITH YOUR RETIREMENT FUNDS..HA.HA. I JUST WANTED TO SAYS THANKS FOR STILL BEING HERE SINGING AND PLAYING FOR US. YOU MAKE THE WORLD A MUCH BETTER PLACE. I WILL GET TO SEE YOU LIVE FOR THE FIRST TIME IN BLOOMINGTON IN ON NOV. 15. I CAN'T WAIT! HAVE YOU EVER CONSIDERED DOING "HOW LUCKY" IN YOUR SHOW? KEEP ON KEEPING ON. GOD BLESS YOU JOHN.

bob nova scotia
hi john saw your two shows in halifax nova scotia. best concert i have ever been too. listen to your music every day. been listening since 1974. bought my first prine album then.your music saved my life and gave me hope and strength to live as booze and drugs were dragging me down. been clean since 82 and your music is so like real life to me. it sure would be nice to see you come to nova scotia canada again. you have the best fans here in the world. as your concerts sell out in no time . anyway may god bless you and keep singing. your the greatest of all time

Peter from Peterborough,ON
Hi John, Been a fan for over 25 years. I have been to 3 of your concerts. Twice in Toronto(we took a bus load up!), once while vacationing in South Carolina. I recently was vacationing in Ireland. I had the pleasure of meeting your good friend Philip Donnely at Birdies. Had the pleasure of playing a few prine songs with him. I asked him and I am asking you when are you coming to Canada? I live 90 Minutes east of Toronto but I am sure there are plenty of fans in our city. Sure would love to see you here !! pjroy44@hotmail.com

Pat Rolfes
I've been a fan since 1973. MY Christmas gift was tickets to Taft in Cinn. Ohio. in February row 14. Oh what a treat! Due to an ice storm we were unable to attend. Now, that was bad luck for me. Worst luck, was reading about the kick butt performance that was given to an empty house. The shining review in the Cincinnati Enquirer describing the stellar performance given by J.P. If only I didn't have to read what I missed. Maybe I could forget my misfortune. But according to the article J.P. stated" You call this an ice storm" . I live in Indiana and" gosh darn it "there was a level 3 snow emergency! No one was allowed on the road! It was a bad day!

Cindi Valley formerly of Illinois,now from Florida
John We are looking forward to seeing you in Melbourne. I would like to request you to play "Common Sense". Thank you in advance. C, Valley

Mary Brelsford
THANK YOU You are coming to Tulsa...can't wait, We will be in Kentucky (The Okie Sisters) .....Of course, as soon as the presale tickets are on sell, I'm getting nine. Looking forward to seeing you...Still want to see you after the show, only need one hug and a picture. HELP me with that,. Josh said he would see what he could do, buy you have the Power...Hell, you have everything!! See you soon, Love you bye - Mary

Tracy
Hello John Prine, My husband and I were introduced to your music about 12 years ago, since then we have listened to all we could get our hands on. So much of the music is touching, relative to our lives and hilarious. We have since our introduction add two new fans to your music. Our son and daughter can both sing along with many of the songs and even better it has become our trail music when we horseback ride and camp. I really appreciate the joy your music brings to my husband and the entire family. We will be seeing you in concert in Paducah KY at the end of October and are really looking forward to it, It will be our late anniversary present to ourselves. Thanks again for the great tunes and family fun times, Tracy from Southern Illinois

Jasper-- Gatlinburg, TN
Dear John Prine, I write this letter to thank you. You have definitely changed my life, and on several occasions you may have actually saved it. A little history: I first heard you via several LPs thanks to my best college friend, Bill, now deceased. That was back in 1977-82. I've only been to three of your shows and that was long ago-- remember Knoxville, TN? You were great, by the way. You spoke to the crowd like we were family. And all people are, after all, aren't we? You get that. Most folks don't. I used to have every LP, tape, and/or CD you made from 1971 to 199?... but they've all been variously lost, lent out, worn out, or stolen. Trying to build that collection back up, but it ain't easy. I've lived a largely irresponsible life of ups and many downs. Since I was a child, I've suffered from severe anxiety and suicidal depression, compounded later by substance abuse of all kinds, the worst being alcoholism. I've been eternally searching for I don't know what, and followed many paths that led nowhere. Here's the thing: I could always count on you to tell the truth. Life's fun, bittersweet, harsh, cruel, funny, contradictory, poignant realities were always right there in your deceptively simple lyrics. You're an excellent musician and performer, but above all you are a POET in the truest sense. Not only do you describe life as you see it, you help others see it in their own new ways. You never preach, you paint. We get to interpret the art in infinite ways, on infinite levels. It is astonishing how much that has helped me over the years, and I'm sure I'm not alone. Thanks, John. Peace & Love, Jasper

Greg - greenfield , indiana
The Lord has truly blessed us all with you !! thank you

Jerry Taylor Kentucky
Dear John Prine, Sir, friend, I have been listening to your music since I was a young man, I am now 50 years old, yet your music has never aged. I have been to many of your concerts, and I’m not really a concert goer. I now live in Ky and deeply regret I will not be able to see you in concert in Ky this Oct, due the fact I will be out of country on a cruse. I attended one of your concerts in Virginia Beach back in the late 70’s early 80’s. There was a write up in one of the local newspapers where you granted an interview. You said you didn’t want to get real famous. You liked the small crowds. When you were ready to retire; you were going to hold a contest to find someone good that you could make famous. Is this still something you are considering? If so when and where do you plan to do it? I have a deep love for your music (as all your fans do) I would not want to miss that for anything. Jerry

Rick - Georgia
I guess I'm a little late,but better late than never in finding your music,thank GOD for sirius or i wouldn't have ever have heard of you,once again thanks for the great music you put out. I only hope to be able to see you live one day(being a trucker ain't easy)well thanks again and have a great day.. just a fan, Rick

G. Crouse, New Glasgow, Nova Scotia
Oh My Land.....I absolutely love all of John Prine's songs.........I really think it would be great for you to do a concert in Nova Scotia, Canada, I would definitely be there......

Mary Brelsford
The "Okie Sisters" will be there in Paducah,,,,PLEASE tell All or Josh we MUST have a meet and greet pass. I already got my presale tickets, so, we will be right up front again. If we don't get passes, we will just have to wait like we did before. Can't wait to see you. again. Loveyoubye - Mary (and Susan...my sister)

Tis
Just traveled 15 hours by ferry to get to Juneau for my very first John Prine concert - was excellent and worth every minute! Thanks for the great time....

Don Hicks, Topeka, Kansas
Dear John: (ha what a opening line)/ I have seen you many times in concerts around this area. I always try to turn people on to your music whenever possible. I began this tradition years ago with my four children. Needless to say, they all love your music as much as I do. Come back to Kansas City, Lawrence or anywhere close. Thanks for your talent.

Becky Larsen
Dear Mr. Prine, The best non concert I ever did not attend was driving my Volkswagen bus (a beautiful azure blue and bondo grey) up Weber Canyon Utah, trying to get to Park West to see you. The tire blew at Devils Slide, so we sat by the side of Weber River with a jug of table wine and had our own concert. It started out soprano, and ended up very deep alto. And the whole time some very nice miner from Croyton was trying to read the Book of Mormon to us as he changed my tire. It didn't have the heart to tell him that those guys had already booted me out. I finally saw you in tux at Abravenal Hall many years later. Loved the back-up. No jug wine this time. What I would like you to see is the end of my brothers eulogy from 2003. He died from over medication, and after listening to you, well... "Larry Wayne Wilcox died of a broken heart. His accomplishments in life were not many, if viewed through the eyes of worldly people, but were huge in the respect of those that he loved. .......His aspirations were not recognized by most....but he allowed some of us a peek into his complicated world. His heart was true, and his intent was good. For those of the kind and true, thank you for your love for him. For others, please grant yourself the blessing of seeing people like Larry. Larry had no forgotten dreams. They were all very real to him. So if your walking down the street some time, and spot some ancient hollow eyes, please just don't pass them by and stare. Say Hello in there. Hello. Good Bye... Leak and Lulu." Just wanted you to know. I know the words are not exact. Some people thought I came up with that. Just said "John Prine" . I even had some say "Oh Ya, John Prine". Oh, and By the way, I know an excellent spot for pan size trout on the up side of Jordanlle, just out side of Park City. A little tributary that dumps into the reservoir. Even my husband can catch fish there, but I'm not suppose to tell anyone about it, cuz they will have to kill me. Love your music (attitude) forever, Becky Larsen williamlarsen@comcast.net

Vickie
John, Please come play at my family picnic

Vickie
I'm a former Juneau, AK resident. I'm just sick that I won't be there tomorrow night to see the great John Prine. I just bought a brand new CD. Been listening all day. Hope everyone in town shows up.

Kip and Wendy
John, Why don't you come to California to perform? I know for a fact that you have some big fans here. My husband has some great memories of listening to "Dear Abby" when he was throwing newspapers in Riverside, California a long time ago.

"Malamute" Mike Hendricks
Loved your Cerritos concert last year. Thanks for signing Knik's skirt! We got tickets for Anchorage concert in a week or so, but unfortunately, Knik ( Trudy ) is now hospitalized with a serious medical issue. Doesn't look like we will be able to fly up to Alaska to see you again, much to our dismay, this time around. Hopefully, she will recover and we can see you someplace else. Have a great concert without us. ( If you have trouble recalling us, we were the ones with your lyrics written all over our shirts at Cerritos...no wine and cheese crowd for us..lol). Best of luck to you and the band and I hope Alaska shows you her hospitality! The people there are great!

Vickie from Mississippi
I was just listening to Lake Marie! I'm going to be at your show in Paducah Kentucky. Looking forward to it. My house is full of John Prine posters and pictures but this will be my first show!!

Jan in Paw Paw, MI
Have not seen you since the last time you were in Kalamazoo, MI! I had my entire collection of your music stolen everything from cassettes to cds. Someone really liked your music to take all mine! Keep on writing and singing.

Chuck - Mattapoisett, MA
Hey John, I missed your Boston area show last year even though my friend Michael Troy opened for you. I'm hoping to make the Lowell gig in September.....always admired your work, especially the songwriting. With Peace, Chuck http://www.chuckwilliamsmusic.com

Tam from Oregon
Don't know if I have ever said thanks for your music...but thought I would say it now. I have always liked your tunes, but my friend Johnny from Boise (lived there for 20 years) made me a lover of your music. So, all that said, thank you, so much for sharing your soul. Johnny knows good music, he plays a mean fiddle :-) Your music makes my day, lifts my mood, and gives me perspective. Love you for it, Tam

rnr - smithville, OH
you rock dude thats all i must say you rock

dave shiflett
hey there mr. prine with great humility i invite you to hear a song about war. i'm the father of a soldier, back from his first deployment, and planning to redeploy to afghanistan next year. this is a 'reality of war' song. it's called 'all the good men' the opening verse: all the good men finally come home marching no more, some all alone lying beneath flags just as still as a stone riding past fields where they used to play back to the towns where they would have stayed finally home where their mothers prayed through the night no more tears in their weary eyes no more prayers to those silent skies when old men talk war, young men will die far away the song's at my myspace site: http://www.myspace.com/karmafarmers if you don't listen you're still a saint

Chad, VA
hey Johnny! Dude I'm a huge, huge fan. Just got my tickets ordered for the show in Savanna. Never seen you before so I'm all excited. Thank you for still gettin out and performing for nuts like me. See you soon, and God Bless!!!

Nehkeya (a loyal John Prine fan)
Someone has to hear Joe Pug, he is an amazing singer/song writer. I am just a fan who thinks he needs a label. I love John Prine and now I love Joe Pug!! I bought tickets to see JJ Grey & Mofro in Nashville and Joe happened to open for them. My mouth fell open in awe, his voice sinks deep inside you, much like yours does . Have a listen, it'll only take a minute, and I promise it will be worth your while!! Thanks, http://www myspace. com/thejoepug Check out Nation of Heat and I Do My Father's Drugs

Chad - somewhere in Louisiana
M r. John, i would like to take a minute to say thank you for your music. its certainly one of a kind and I'm grateful for artists such as yourself. i knew much of your music by heart at a young age hearing my father playing it, when he was home, and it stuck with me my whole life. any time i go into a billiard room or a bar i fill the juke box up with you. it sets the perfect mood for the environment i like to enjoy myself in. i also find it changes the mood of others who may have never heard you they listen and learn too. when i say artists such as yourself I'm only referring to one other. Paul Simon, i listen to you both quite often and its what music to me should be. thanks again

DRJ PROJECTS - Bennettsville, SC
Thanks for your music. Started listening to your music in the 70's. Wore those vinyl records out over the years. I knew every word to Dear Abby, Illegal Smile,The Great Compromise by heart. You are one of my all time favorites. Thanks for the music about life.

patsy gallagher - donegal

hi john ,hows things good i hope i just uploaded a wee country song that i wrote called (TAKE ME HOME) i would love to know what you think of it .any chance of taking a wee listen to it . you know us songwriters try every angle we can ,well esp us donegal songwriters . http://myspace.com/patsygallagher c ya around ,hey maybe i will as i hear you be in ardara now n then all the best

Douglas F. Blake; Bradenton, Fl
John - Back in 1973/4 the college day was never finished until your first album "John Prine" was played a few times. My joined-at-the-hip college buddy owned it. When we graduated away went that album but my desire to continue the day-ending tradition was restored when I finally got my own copy of it in a large Philadelphia record store a year later. That album went on to be a yearly ritual of playing music daily and loudly during the year-ending vacation I always took when the family was out doing their thing. I finally caved into the "CD" thing in 2000 when I sold all of my LP's and began a CD collection. "Souvenirs" was among the first CD's I purchased. When cars finally came with CD players my year-ending loud playing tradition became a daily ritual. Life on the road suddenly took on a whole different perspective. A daily dose of John Prine - it doesn't get any better. This has been going on for years now. My sudden desire to write you a "Big Thanks" was inspired by a friend who was listening to satellite radio recently and he heard a John Prine song(?) and asked me if I had heard of this "new" artist. I played a few songs from "Souvenirs" and I recognized that same blown away look I had in 1973 when first listening to "John Prine". We will be anxiously awaiting the year 2030 for the next time you re-record the songs of "Souvenirs". In the mean please don't stop what you are doing - please! Doug

Lolly- in the woods in Kenai, Alaska
It sure would be great if you could squeeze in a concert in Kenai or Soldotna, Alaska next week- the only other show on the Peninsula sold out immediately in Homer and we are starving here.....Love your music and your show, and you are an inspiration to me as a musician.

Mark Hill
Hello John, This feels like nothing less than writing an old friend or family member. I live in central illinois and grew p listening to your music my whole life. My parents were what some might call hippies, and expressed how your music had an authenticity and genuine quality that is not found very many places. I am 40 now and am still listening to your music almost daily. I have learned to play a few of your tunes and I must say I enjoy playing your music as much as listening to it. I teach social studies and played The Great Compromise for my students when going over the sixties and Vietnam. The kids loved the song and some have sought out more of your music since. I felt proud to introduce them to your music and I hope they get a life time of enjoyment from it as I have. I just wanted to express how much I have always enjoyed your music, and express my gratitude for your great contribution to my life through your insightful lyrics and toe tapping tunes.

JULY 2008

Hia john.
I'm fr. the interior of British Columbia ' thinking about having the battle of the bands 'some undisclosed location in the cariboo chilcotin 'Iv always wanted to make a name of our community ..to some we are just hillbillies 'but we are good people folk . I have always thought of having a festival out in the middle of nowhere 'I live in Anahim Lake near the Coast of Bella Coola BC,. it wouldn't be a problem getting other bands together 'just wondering if you might be interested 'you can contact me @ area code 250- 742-3595 in canada my location is Anaheim Lake box 3331 v0l1c0 again thank you for your time...Rod.C.

mary brelsford - Bixby, OK
Looks like you aren't going to make it here in September...My sister and I, "The Okie Sisters" were in Little Rock...your best show yet. We don't want to stalk you, so tell me how to get 'Meet and Great' passes for Paducah, cause we will be there! We will wait around on you even if we don't have them. Our husbands are making this road trip with us, but we'll be on our own that night. They do understand how much we love you - have for 35 years, and don't see any end in sight. Can't wait to see you. Again, thank you for making difficult times easier, you always do...all I have to do is listen. My birthday is October 3rd, and my sisters is October 5th, and isn't your boys the 4th? Us old Okie Sisters are going to party in style ....with our Number One Man - You. Love you bye - Mary

CISGOVOLS
Dear JP, I was turned on to your music by a fellow sailor from southwestern Indiana. He was astonished that I hadn't heard of John Prine being from Tennessee. Being raised on Charlie Daniels and the like(story-songwriters). After listening to your Prime Prine album(yes it was that long ago), it wasn't too long after that that I got my first guitar. I had a buddy show me three of the basic chords(G,C,&D) and I went from there. Your songwriting style led me to try my hand at writing my own songs. I came up with such songs as 'Do It Simple'(about being buried and the stuff that goes with it), 'Do You Think She's Blind?', When(The Whens Won't Win Anymore.), 'The Ballad Of Junior' (about a Viet Nam vet that died down on his luck), 'Warts and All'(take me as you see me), 'She' the One For Me', 'The Conscience Knows', 'Geriatric Swinger', and even one entitled loosely 'The Way the World Goes 'Round'. Although the last one sounds nothing like the one you wrote. Every time you come to Knoxville, I am there with no worse seats than eighth row center. Hope to see you the next time you head our way. On one of those sites where they ask a bunch of questions about you, one of the questions was, "Who would I like most to meet?" Behind meeting my great, great, great grandparents(on both sides) before they met each other, it was John Prine's name next on the list. Keep the excellent music coming our way and if you get to where you need some help, just send me an E-mail at ceneal2@hotmail.com. Serious but realistic. Take care and may you ALWAYS have friends to help you through the hard times and pat you on the back when you need it! Your Fan, CLINTON a.k.a. CISCO

George McGaha (mcgaha02@aol.com)
Dear John, I need to ask a favor. Here in a few days at the end of July, a fellow named Keith Sims will be retiring from the Kentucky Department for Environmental Protection. When Keith came to our office in the mid 90's somewhere about ten minutes into our first conversation we both came to the conclusion that we fell in love with your music somewhere around halfway through the first verse of ILLEGAL SMILE, and Keith has followed you like a bloodhound ever since. Ya'll are look alikes, you know. We both recalled that the first time we saw you was in the early 70's in a little auditorium on Western Kentucky University's campus called Van Meter Auditorium. You know one of those little theater places with the balcony around the top. I don't think Keith has missed seeing you since within a couple of hundred mile radius around Kentucky. I guess you can tell by now I haven't got up the nerve to ask, but...is there any way possible that you could "won't you write him a letter, won't you give him a call?" (i.e. autographed picture). "Signnned Bewildered." If this is possible or if there is some other way I need to go about this is there some way you could let me know. Keith Sims Dept for Environmental Protection 9116 Leesgate Road Louisville, KY 40222-5084 (502) 724-9053 cell (502) 429-7120 Thanks George McGaha (502) 889-7418 cell

Brad Clarry - Anchorage , AK
Saw JP for the 1st time in Denver , Colorado in 1984 at The Rainbow Music Hall . Never heard of John Prine until several of my fellow U.S.P.S. co-workers said that they were going AND mentioned that JP was a former mail carrier himself in Chicago . That was a memorable killer concert and have seen him several times since , mostly in my hometown of Syracuse , New York . Am SO looking forward to seeing you with my friend in ANC at the end of August as you never disappoint !

David Douthitt-Rush
My wife and I took my father-in-law, Jerry Douthitt, to see JP at Butler University in Indiana, a few years ago. Jerry was so excited, and he said John Prine was the second genius he knew, after Hank Williams. He got three beers at the concession stand and said, "Here we go. We have the best of intentions." He loved the concert and yelled "Rock and Roll!" several times during John and Nanci Griffith's sets. Jerry died of cancer a little over a year later, but he told everybody right up to the end about the concert and what a genius John Prine is. Thank you, John, for giving us such a great experience. Jerry was right about the genius thing. I think he was one, too, so he should have known.

Art Lachman, Seattle, Washington
So, I picked up the new biography of Richard Nixon at the library, "Nixonland" by Rick Perlstein. I used to worked with a lawyer named Egil "Bud" Krogh, who worked in the Nixon White House (and actually served time for his role in Watergate). He was fond of telling the story of the time Nixon met Elvis in 1970 (here's a link with all the info on that, with links to pictures: http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/nsa/elvis/elnix.html#meet Anyway, I wondered if the biography talked about that, so I went to the index to look for "Presley, Elvis." Not there, but what did I find? "Prine, John". On page 446. Here's the quote from the book: "Betsy Ross was taking on a partisan edge, too. Eighteen million Reader's Digest subscribers received detachable flag decals inside the special February 1969 "America in Transition" issue. Thirty-one million more wrote in to request one. The left-wing folksinger John Prine responded, in song, upon "digesting Reader's Digest in the back of a dirty book store," that waving flags didn't "get you into heaven anymore--they're already too [sic] crowded from your dirty little war." Five years after Lyndon Johnson was elected on a platform of consensus, every conceivable cultural expression fell to one or another side of the American ideological divide." I especially like the part where he calls John a "left-wing folksinger." Cool.

Cathie Missouri
I met a woman on an internet support chat group who said that she grew up with John Prine. I asked her if an autographed photo would be possible. My 19 year old son has gone through 14 brain surgeries, and he is a huge Prine fan. He told me when he dies, he wants us to play "Please Don't Bury Me" at his funeral. Well, this kind woman asked J.P. for an autographed photo for my son, and our beloved J.P. sent him one! This is my boys pride and joy! He shows it to everyone! Thank you John. You have no idea of the impact on my son for your kind gesture. The fact that it was a gift from you rather than a purchase makes it even more special to him. Thank you John, from an entire family of Prine fans.

Houston
John thanks for your music. Missing Years made me think about my own years and what I should do with them 10 years ago. Here I am again making a big decision in life and your tunes just make it alright. Genuine. Thanks, H

madeinalaska
Hello.. I must start by saying I am a life long fan.. not my doing but, my father who has long past (in 1983 I was 13).. he introduced me to your music when I was 5 or 6... I am now 38 (2008) ..he was your biggest fan.. I didn't understand this for many years.. I do now...You have been w/ me my whole life... you are coming to Juneau AK soon.. my hubby bought us tickets long ago.. I cannot wait to see you and would LOVE to meet/ shake your hand or if you just dedicated souvenirs/ or please don't bury me to Julee that would be a life long dream I could check off my life list! I guess we will see if you read these boards or not! you friend Julee thats Julie w/ two e's

Cathy Helm Melbourne, FL
John, I cannot believe you have escaped my attention all these years! My 28 year old son asked for your CD for Christmas, we complied, of course. Right after that, I caught your concert on Austin City Limits, and I was hooked! Well, no sooner, I saw that you are coming to the King Center, right here in Melbourne! In fact, my son has social issues and will never go anywhere, he is indeed coming with us! I am so very excited! My favorite song is Some Humans ain't human, so sadly true. I am a huge music fan, I am so ate up with Delbert McClinton! Obviously, I have passed my musical interest to my son, it is great to have him turn me on to stuff I am not familiar with. Can't wait to see you 9/20! A sincere new fan! Cathy Helm

aj
John I have the 'Speed of the sound of loneliness' video, I was wondering was that whole show filmed. If it was, will it ever be available. aj

R Williams , Nashville, Tn
I saw you at the Exit Inn in Nashville back in the early 80's. Love your songs and your sound. PLEASE put In Spite Of Ourselves, with Iris Dement on Karaoke so me and my guy can sing it. I have looked everywhere for it and I can't find it anywhere. I sing lots of your songs at my favorite karaoke bar and have introduced lots of young folks to your music. I think all your duets are great but I really like In Spite Of Ourselves

John B.
Aloha from the land of pineapples, first saw you on a segment of Austin City Limits 3 years ago and have enjoyed your music ever since. As I look in the mirror and see the hair getting grayer, the lines a little deeper and the dreams often fading, I turn to your music for a touch of sadness and reflection and perhaps a smile or two. Mahalo for sharing your wonderful talent, I only regret that I hadn't discovered your music earlier. Regards, John B.

Mark Mears - Salt Lake City
I was living in Wyoming early in the 1970's when I came across a review of Prine's first album in Time magazine. I'd been into Dylan for years and had listened to more standard folk for just as long - PP&M, Kingston Trio, etc. In the early 70's I was migrating to country through folk and country rock. Anything acoustic, original, witty, and not messed with too much electronically was and is my choice in music. So on my next trip to Salt Lake after reading the review, I picked up Prine's first album and was hooked. He was the best then and still is. This passion isn't shared by many people I know, but one lifelong friend and I have never missed a Prine concert in our area for over 30 years and have now taken to traveling to LA and Denver and anywhere else that is relatively close to get as much as we can of him. We're getting up there now and figure we shouldn't miss any reasonable chance to enjoy his music live. I don't think a smile ever leaves my face from the time Prine starts singing until he walks off the stage and the same holds for listening to him in my car or home. I think that might be the highest praise I could give someone who really feels like a very old friend: He always makes me smile. Keep it up Johnnie and visit those relatives up north in Ogden often. Oh, and bring your guitar.

Andre - Brussels, Belgium
John Prine is my all time favorite singer-songwriter. First time I heard him on the radio,- back in the seventies or early eighties, I became a great fan and I tried to buy every available CD in our shops. "The missing years" was a real milestone in my music listening and since then, I waited to see him in concert here in Brussels. The firs time was in 1996 in the "Luna" theatre, it became an unforgettable evening, not only thanks to the amazing performance of JP, but also his brothers in arms were fantastic : Jason Wilber, Dave Jacques and Phil Parlapiano. The next two times he visited Belgium was in the famous "Ancienne Belgique" and of course, I was there by every occasion. Thanks John, for the so many hours you made me feel good and happy. I hope to see you back here in Brussels as soon as possible.

Connie - Cass Lake, MN
Hi John! My guy and I recently opened an Espresso coffee bar and billiard hall in a small town in northern Minnesota. We recently hosted a David Allan Coe concert on Father's Day. We have a small venue that can hold about 500 people. I am wondering if you will be in our area again and if we could visit about having you do a show at our place? I don't know any other way to get a message to you and stumbled upon this site this morning. I do not want to list my email here, so maybe I can get a reply on this site to take it to the next level. I appreciate your time. Thank you very much! Connie

Shane Johnson -- Davenport, Iowa
John, Been listenin' to you since 1980 when I "discovered" you while an Ag major at Iowa State. About a year later I heard "Grandpa was a carpenter" and it hit home....my Grandpa was from Sweden and wore work suits to the lumberyard and sunday suits to church (hearin' aids too). I never realized he wore those suits -- it was just who he was--a craftsman that respected his trade. In 1984 or 85 I went to your concert in Anchorage, Alaska........would be good to go once again. Thanks John, Shane

robertedwardhill@yahoo.com
Dear John, I am writing some poems against the Iraq War. A friend told me I should use some of your lines. I've written the poem, and I quote from "Pretty Good" and "There's a Hole in Daddy's Arm" I;ve also used the line "There was space between Donald and whatever he said." (The poem condemns Rumsfeld). I would like to know whether you would permit me to use these lines if I cite you as the author,because I will be publishing the poem soon I hope. If this is alright with you, would you also identify the poem with the line "There was space . . .?" Would you like a copy of my poem? Thanks very much, Bob

papapoet,,Bismarck,ND
I remember first hearing your music in 1973. I was in the military and a fellow airman turned me on to you. I smoked a lot of pot back then, and when illegal smile came out I lost it,,I was sure you wrote that song for me. I remember listenin to you when we were both still young,God Bless you Mr Prine,and your Momma and Daddy for givin you life....

Wendy - Cary, NC
Hello, John (and fellow Prine-y's out there)! I am writing this to let you know just how much your music has touched my life, and continues to do so on a daily basis. Your CDs are always in rotation on my stereo, both in the house and vehicle. My significant other has listened to your music for as long as he can remember, but I was just introduced to it about five years ago. Before then, I had always known of your music, but never really 'listened' to it. Knowing how much of a fan he is, I purchased tickets to a show in Pompano Beach, FL (10 hour drive from home!) as a surprise. Since then, I have been hooked! We are now Official Prine-y's, and have traveled to many of your shows in the South. We are lucky enough to reside in Cary, NC now, and have attended your shows at the Booth Amphitheater (essentially in our back yard!) several times. I would like to know if you ever have any sort of a meet & greet at your shows? We would love to have the privilege of meeting and sharing conversation with you. Thank you for all that you contribute (and keep contributing) to the music world. Your music is a bright beacon in a room full of lifeless, soulless music.

John - UK
hi John i cannot believe it but you had a conversation with my daughter at the new york airport. she told you that i love your music and know and sing some of your songs. i think she told you about the song i wrote which is based on a woman who gets comfort from your music. check out the words on it cos in the words are hidden 10 of your songs.... as well as you being in the song.... you can find it on my space... the story behind the song is also there.. if you get the time...... i think you'd enjoy it. hope this note finds you in the best of health.... may you keep writing and performing for many many years. god bless you http://myspace.com/badlyoutoftune

Kevin, Prineville, OR
John, I feel like I know you, I have been enjoying your music forever and would like to invite you to visit me and my family if your ever in oregon , Prineville to be exact. Hope this gets to you and have a great summer!

mea spazz - Springville, NY
We would have keggers in cow pastures in Western New York when I was old enough to drink and young enough not to care that it was a cow pasture. My friends would start Singing "If I Had a Hammer" and the seal would be broken. They would sing your songs until all the beer was gone and the "sleepovers" moved out of the dewy dark pasture into the warm farmhouse kitchen. I saw you live at Vandy one year just because none of them ever saw you play live. You did a much better job singing your songs than they ever could. Thanks for being cooler than Vince Gill.

Michael - New York, NY
We actually met a couple of times.....Gary Fish is a high school buddy and was one of the road managers of my band, Jiva... Check out Billiespyder's 666th Dream on my page - http://myspace.com/michaellanning , 'cause you partially inspired it!!! Hope all is well on your end of the Universe.

Jenn - Wichita, KS
Gosh we love you! We dance and move to your music and lyrics daily. We were just wondering how much an evening of you singing to us, this fall in the wonderful city of Wichita, Kansas might set us back? We're truly looking forward to a response from you. You, continue to make us smile. XOXOXOXOXO's Jenn & Bill aka Ben & Jill ;-)

Christine - Lexington, KY
Hi, You don't know me but I am 41 and I grew up listening to you. My mother loved you, so does all of the real music lovers in Kentucky. My mom passed away in '82 at age 34. I was 15. I still always remember Mom singing to your songs. She loved Illegal Smile and Donald and Lydia. Well as the years grew on, I found out that I had a younger brother that my mother gave away for adoption when I was 3. ....Anyway, I turned him on to your music. He has loved you as much as me for years. When we get drunk we both just belt out singing to your songs!!!!!! LOL He and his wife have been to your shows several times and I think they have met you. You were probably at the KY theatre here in Lexington. I'm so jealous. I just wanted to tell you I LOVE your music. You have been a part of my life since I can remember and always will be. I have 2 of your songs on my MYspace profile.

Nick H, Albuquerque, NM
I'm a huge fan of yours since I was 3. I've also been playing guitar and taking lessons from Pimentel guitar makers(Alb, NM.) since the age of 6, I don't know if you know who Pimentel is but they're a local and world renowned classical guitar makers. They've been making guitars for 50+ years, all family. They also are all made from scratch by hand including inlays, fingerboards etc. I've been to I'd say most of your shows in town. I have Cerebral Palsy in both of my legs and have had number upon number of operations since birth. I just want to thank you for making such beautiful music over the years that helped me get thru it all, (Girls.) It's nice to listen to your songs and know that someone knows/knew what you were going through. And yes I'm someone who sat down and listened to the words of your songs (All of them) and I know them well. Have a good one and Thank You

Karen - Athens GA
You know somethin', John Prine? I have lived 3 lifetimes since I heard you sing for the first time. Oatmeal has never tasted the same, and I have stared many a bowl down since you came along. In the three life times I have lived I have turned every body I know onto you and your incredible way of making life sweeter and a little less crappy. God, I love you. I did see you once in Atlanta. I did not follow you off stage, but I wanted to. Just never was that kind of fan. But now we are both older and wiser (if that is possible) and I can finally make use of this garbage they call the internet and tell you, my favorite songwriter and performer (even over the the Big Bob D.) you took me to a very safe place when I hated the world or when my heart was broken or when I just couldn't get that monkey off my back. I have every thing you have ever sold and BIG ORANGE still cranks out a memory that I can remember as good just because you. Chain of Sorrow, Fish and Whistle, OMG!!! I am so happy to be able to tell you these things. You are amazing, so very amazing. Thank you from the bottom of little ole Southern heart.

read more>>