John Prine (1946 - 2020) at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass

The first John Prine song I heard was "Illegal Smile". It was so simple and yet the story struck me, the thought of escaping reality was very appealing. And there were more stories on that album, "Sam Stone", "Donald & Lydia”. "Angel from Montgomery" was mystical and that was just his first record.
John wrote the best songs, they seemed effortless but each one made you feel like you were living the story with him. In 2017 after we put the schedule together, Kurt Vile’s team said he had spoken to Prine and wanted to join him for a song. There was significant overlap in their sets but we had a golf cart waiting for Kurt to take over to the Banjo Stage. They sang “The Speed of the Sound of Loneliness” together which seems fitting for today. It was difficult to pick just one song for this tribute so we have several. We also recommend you view his full sets from 2014 www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.co... and 2017 www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.co...
and share your memories.
John has been one of the perennial favorites at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass. He was an amazing character and every staff member has a different story to share. As we compared notes today, we found ourselves laughing while holding back tears. This is a huge loss that we will be reeling from for a long time to come.
Sheri Sternberg and the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Staff
Songs included:
0:00 Fish and Whistle (HSB11)
03:17 Lake Marie (HSB14)
12:00 Paradise w/ Steve Earle (HSB14)
17:17 Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore (HSB17)
20:41 Speed of the Sound of Loneliness w/ Kurt Vile (HSB17)
24:30 Angel from Montgomery (HSB17)

[@craigscott3133]

It's been a better life with John Prine's music in the world.

[@susunque2245]

It starts my day..EVERY DAY!!!

[@johac7637]

Especially the song about Republicans, Some humans ain't human.

[@jessieramsey5018]

His words pulled me out of a hole 40 years ago. Thank you my friend!

[@allengrigg7553]

This is the first Covid19 death that just broke my heart. Farewell Mr. Prine. Your music will live in the hearts of many forever.

[@richardhallin6679]

My thoughts, exactly.

[@dustinjohnson3463]

Shedd more then a few tears

[@Austin18025]

Yep, this really hurt.

[@jeanmichelpick8550]

Even in France, some fans of his cry tears of joy and a bit of grief too, been crying for half an hour watching some some songs of his what a musician, what a courage too!

[@snuffydawg8209]

Painful but we can take him with us on the rest of our journey . RIP John

[@bncmedia2951]

John's last album was a sort of rebirth for him and it is a testament to the fact that he still had a lot to say, and that is what breaks my heart.

[@funone8716]

Imagine the life this man lived. From a Mailman to a folk SUPERSTAR! RIP John Prine! THANK YOU for all your art contributions to the Human Race.

[@funisnumberone1]

fun one ... and he remained the same happy and humble guy the whole way through. Love this guy!

[@michaelsteven1090]

Charles Bukowski was a mailman too! They would’ve been best pals had they met!

[@ronnie5129]

JOHN WAS A VERY SPECIAL PERSON,, NO ONE WILL EVER FILL ONE OF HIS SHOES, R.I.P. MY FRIEND, COUSIN FIGEL

[@randyvowels6261]

Some of the best ever, what a great song writer and story teller...RIP music man

[@vonnatkins4942]

I feel like John and his music changed my life, as an campfire guitar player, i've sang more JP songs than any other artist. In my opinion he was the greatest song writer there ever was, he will be missed my me and my whole family. In the song "When I get to Haven" he sings about seeing his mom and dad and other family, Go with God John and enjoy your reunion.

[@scottdenis4110]

i thought i was the only one who called myself a campfire guitar player, my dad taught me how to play Prine songs and I'll always be grateful for that, but i think im going to actually learn how to play them correctly now so when my kids ask to learn their favorite john prine songs i can give them all the little details.

[@shanerowe5289]

How many musicians say that playing with JP was the best gig of their lives? Now God has that privilege

[@AndalusianIrish]

Yes in terms of the chords of his songs they aren't that hard to play and they are great singalong songs. That's a great skill. Yet they were full of meaning.

[@valward4360]

I'm new to John Prine (how, I'll never know). I feel like I've lost a favorite friend whose influence will live forever. Such an amazing talent who touched so many. I'm so sad. My sincere condolences to John's wife, Fiona, and John's 3 children. What a deep loss. Love and strength to you. Valerie in Boise, ID

[@maskandvaccinefreeandproud2110]

Preaching to the choir my friend. I often thank the man upstairs for having been raised in such a musical family who exposed me to artists like Mr Prine myself. I’d like to think it represents any of the good I might actually possess inside of me as a man, a friend and a father. Maybe I’ll see some of y’all around some campfire some evening singing songs somewhere down the road. Take care and may God bless John Prine. May he Rest In Peace.

[@williammcadams7767]

who in the hell would give this a thumbs down!!!! I sawJohn Prine at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass in2008 we watched his whole set fkn awesome!!!

[@thomaskelly3362]

John perfectly described those downers, "some humans ain't human..."

[@raymondcava4669]

@@thomaskelly3362You’re absolutely right some humans aren’t humans. But they act like they do.

[@raymondlynch9367]

Part of me died when when this human passed away....Vicar St Dublin will never be the same without the talent of John Prine....you are missed.....

[@bobgreen1272]

One of finest songwriter, singer's this Side of and Now at Part Of Heaven!!

[@debjones60]

That was beautiful. His angel voice has fallen silent but his memory and music will love on forever. Rest easy John. 🙏🏼🥰 thanks for the words and music. You were a genius. Born to entertain us. A true star. Let your light shine bright . 🌟 ⭐️ 💫

[@katherinehunter9526]

Totally agree. May he Rest in peace. ✌💞🎸🎶🌹🙏 KEH 🇨🇦

[@nolan8336]

Beautifully put Deb 💚☘🇺🇸🇮🇪

[@teddyboysdontknit810]

A brave many that suffered much illness in his life yet gave so much to others.

[@user-vm2ed9pr5z]

I’ve listened to John Prine almost daily since I first heard him in the very early 70’s, probably when his first album came out❤😊

[@andycarlton5625]

I first heard John Prine on John Peel's late night BBC Radio One programme almost 50 years ago, Two of the songs he sang that night he sings in this concert in 2019, Flag Decal and Angel from Montgomery. Thanks for a lifetime of music, John.

[@tommythompsonsurfer]

god bless america and the world1!!! marie ok stufed concert

[@texaspa]

A true heart story teller!...We will never see another like him so glad we have his legacy!

[@mrchildgrownold3852]

Indeed

[@yourturn777]

✌ Miss You

[@douglasdunton9542]

John ~ always so kind ~ introducing new folks and no need to feed his ego...I miss him.

[@russellsims2019]

Heard my first John Prine song in the Fall of 1972 when I returned to law school in KY after serving a tour in VN. It was Paradise covered by a local singer. Had never heard of him before then. Been listening to his music since then. Seen him at least 8 time in person. It was a sad day when John Prine died.

[@tommythompsonsurfer]

covid......godbless us all call jesus>

[@barrydismukes7601]

It wouldn’t living without a little John Prine too listen to!😄

[@kelvingrover4043]

It's nice to see John smile. May God bless you and your family

[@kenwalker2868]

I had never heard of John Prine until I heard that he had died of covid-19. I'm hearing him for the first time today and Lord what I've missed. What a loss he is to the world of music.

[@banjopete]

Ken Walker , better late than never, my old dad used to say.

[@tracylemme1375]

Most people I know ever heard of John Prine. I think it is because he didn’t want the BIG industry man to tell him what he should write or record

[@karlschmiedeskamp6210]

MY KIDS WERE RAISED BY J0HN PRINE . (Thanks JOHN). I am 85 and the kids are in their 40s. My Grand daughter just finished HIGH SCHOOL. Thqnks again!

[@MaIContent]

I been makin salty puddles sittin here for 3 days now. INCONSOLABLE

[@omwinter145]

This is absolutely wonderful and fun !!! Yet I am so saddened by our loss of John !!! I'm thinking maybe it is our time to say to John and Family....I Thank You !!! and Wish You All The Best !!! Heartbroken !!!

[@jonasahlund5610]

The great poet, musician and hero is now gracefully resting in peace in Paradise!

[@kerryloughlin8650]

Beautiful John Prine...having my own memorial today. One of my favorites....you and your Amazing talent will NEVER be forgotten....God Bless you..💜

[@jrallen5417]

Never seen so many wonderful things spoken about one person, that’s a hell of a indicator of how he filled his purpose here! I always heard it’s not how people think of you while your in the room, it’s about what they feel about you after you leave! Think he is a great example of that saying. We loved you JP! Now you can Smoke that 9 mile cigarette and really enjoy it 🙂!

[@johnthompson8551]

I'm so grateful that I was able to see this brilliant man on what ended up being his final tour. An evening I'll never forget. I wept as well when hearing of his passing.

[@stevewyatt3125]

What a loss , been forty years plus when I was sitting in a dim smoke filled room listening to John's music. Just look not covered by tattoos , the last of his kind. R I p Mr songsmith

[@purpleandgoldpoetry]

My ticket for his August 2020 visit to Dublin Ireland will always have pride of place condolences to Fiona and family and his amazing musicians.

[@garywilson5733]

So glad I got to enjoy these performances with family and friends. these videos capture the beauty of John Prine. He always left it all on the stage, holding nothing back. You could see love other musicians shared with him.

[@johnnyp8979]

Thanks for putting this up for the ones that never went to see John, but now in later days enjoy all of his ability at making us listeners live his songs... 🥰

[@TheGhostofTomMetzger]

I have been listening to his music since before I can remember. Part of my childhood died with John Prine..R.I.P.

[@christopherneary5050]

Gone but will never be forgotten

[@TheFleetz]

This is gold! Prine and Earle two of my favourites. RIP JP, thanks for your legacy...

[@MrJkfamilyguy59]

RIP John. Thank for sharing your life with all these years. Praying to see you and say hello when I get to heaven.

[@scrapeteel920]

HE GAVE LIKE WE ALL SHOULD. Thank you for every moment you made better.RIP

[@darlenepringle5782]

John Prine is sure ONE OF ITS KIND! KINDRED SPIRIT! excellent spirit🎉

[@jeffreylancaster4789]

What a treasure! The music lives on! RIP John Prine

[@davidscott8123]

Phenomenal entertainer!! So special..Miss you John!

[@jimmydutwo]

Spent years in Chicago at the Old Town School of Folk Music(Ray Tate) during years of John, Steve Goodman, Jim Post, the Holsteins, Michael Smith and Bonnie Koloc. Enjoyed all of John's music with times we'd try to go to the Earl of Old Town and other places like Somebody Elses Troubles. How tragic to lose John to lose him to this tragic disease. But on the other hand how lucky John was to live a long prolific life of song and success, dodging the cancer bullet and lastly to have a revival of his songs with numerous awards, concert tours and acclaim just over the last five years. Also to have a good marriage and 3 sons. A full rich life of song doing what he liked most. Bravo John, a life well spent for/to the enjoyment of many!

[@mrchildgrownold3852]

Fortunate to have seen him a few times, been a fan for 40+ my world will never be the same 💔 love you John

[@jog3131]

whistling and fishing in heaven

[@dvrsweet1]

Thanks for this compilation, and especially for capturing his intro to Your Flag Decal Won't Get You Into Heaven Anymore. Made my day. John's been a constant in my life, quietly sitting in the background, always reliable with great stories and observations. His songs seemed so deceptively simple, but the truth is nobody sang and played 'em like John Prine. Nobody ever will. My heart is broken.

[@comedianmattrossey]

Years ago I was a Stage Tech and was lucky to meet Mr. Prine, he was such a hospitable man, very down to earth and truly loved music. I was surprised when after meeting him how much music he had written and recorded. When I saw a few weeks ago that he was in the hospital with covid, he was the first celebrity I had heard had it, I had only thought a few days before that this virus was indiscriminate and was wondering when a musician or actor I have worked with was going to be taken by covid. It wasn't something I was wanting to happen, but I knew it was just a matter of time. When I saw the posting that Mr.Prine had gotten it I had a sudden rush of memories from the day I met him and talked with him off the side of the stage and in the dressing room area. He was a true gentleman. R.I.P. Mr Prine, and Thank You for such great memories. -Matt

[@katherinehunter9526]

What a great memory. Thanks for sharing. Peace and love be with you Brother. Rest in Peace John Prine. Loved your music for over 45 years. Feels like I lost my best friend. ✌💞🎸🎶🌹🙏 KEH 🇨🇦

[@comedianmattrossey]

@@katherinehunter9526 Your Welcome, sadly there's been more that. have died, before Mr.Prine, and after. But there's been a much greater loss overall. Having met him and talked to him, I know he wasn't the type of person to be lamented over in this situation as he didn't think he was any better than anyone else, he just thought he was lucky to have been able to do what he lovd as a career.

[@katherinehunter9526]

@@comedianmattrossey I get that. He was a real Salt of the Earth kind of man you can hear it in his lyrics. I'm just so grateful for finding his music back in 1977. I just wish I'd been able to see him preform just once . But that was never in the cards for me. May he rest in peace. ✌💞🎶🎸🌹🙏 KEH 🇨🇦

[@comedianmattrossey]

@@katherinehunter9526 He had a very simple show, no flash n dazzle, truly bluegrass in feel and movement. There are lots of videos on KZbin, especially now, that you can watch of him.

[@katherinehunter9526]

@@comedianmattrossey Thanks, I have watched hundreds of his shows on KZbin. I go a computer a few years back. I had a musician patient who needed treatments so I traded lessons on my Mac for healing his psoriasis. I immediately looked up John Prine, Townes Van Zandt, John Lee Hooker, Willie P. Bennett, Bonnie Raitt and a host of band's and artists. Every morning I would download videos of concerts documentaries, interviews music videos of the artist plus covers and collaborations with all kinds of musicians and dancers. I mean WOW I was blown away by everything I could find. But I went to see another of my favorite bands last summer King Crimson and I had forgotten how much energy is present at a live venue. The air is filled with the music, you feel the musicians as they take you on this ride that vibrates in your cells and the lyrics play over and over again in your head like mantras for days after the concert. If you're lucky enough to dance it can be better than sex sometimes. Lol So this summer I had decided that this summer I was going to make it out to see David Crosby ,Bonnie Raitt Stevie Winwood and check out more of the festival's around here again. I used to get out to all the festivals every summer. I sold my handmade clothing and jewelry and my partner was killer bass player in 2 popular bands one was a Rock R&B band and the other was a Frank Zappa satirical style band they were both high demand at the time and were at every festival from the beginning of the season to the end. Then bars and quasi concerts all winter. So I was really fortunate to catch tons of fabulous music during those decades. But I'm just really sorry that John Prine wasn't ever at one of the thousands of these shows or festivals and that we never crossed paths. That I never got to see in play live. But you're right it's really nice that we will all be able to look him up here on KZbin, as long as it exists. I just wish I'd see him live ,just once. May he rest in peace. He certainly has touched 45 years of my life and with any luck I might get at least another 40. I've already been making my Funeral music reel and I already had several of John's on it. But since his passing several more have surfaced on the KZbin feed so I have found ones that are newly released. Which is nice to see people are sharing what they have of him. Anyway sorry I kind of went off there. It's been such a tragedy losing him to this Virus. Breaks my heart. Hope you're staying safe and enjoying what ever you may or may not be celebrating on this Holiday Sunday evening Matt. Peace be with you Brother. Thanks again for sharing your story about J.P. on here. ✌💞🎶🎸🙏 🌹KEH 🇨🇦

[@charlessoukup1111]

And the outcomes seldom crystal clear. John danced off stage as he danced through all thru our lives.

[@wendyw4487]

You Got Gold inside of you John Prine.....rest in heavenly peace.......................

[@matthewmitchell8941]

Never, ever miss Hardly, Strictly Bluegrass...not one more time. Good bye John Prine, you are loved.

[@anthonyvokey]

What a beautiful soul and voice taken from us too early don’t seem right..

[@socal1968]

Thank you for compiling and posting this. I was in the crowd in 2014 and 2017. Such great memories.

[@AlNev1951]

As an Irishman I'm delighted that John had such a great fondness for Ireland, Galway in particular and his love for an Irish woman.

[@katherinehunter9526]

Angel flies over Montgomery.. Thanks for all your fabulous music John Prine. Been praying since l heard the new of you getting this COVID-19 and were put in the hospital. May you rest in peace J.P. Your song's have have been the soundtrack to my life. Thankyou. Peace and love be with you Brother. ✌💞🎸🎶🌹🙏 KEH 🇨🇦

[@billzee-tg8hh]

He put wide smiles and many stupid grins on my face. Now along with those I have tears in my eyes. Rest In Peace my friend.

[@Janetthetoxdoc]

Warren Hellman thank you forever for bringing us Hardly Strictly Bluegrass and such great line-ups of musicians including John Prine. Hope you both will be looking down on us in October and for many more HSB festivals to come. May the music never end...

[@barthoward4984]

Feeling john... lyrics of ... wishing gonna fishing in heaven

[@lisaweissenborn3850]

John Prine will never be forgotten. He was a very special person and talented. I know that he will remain in my heart forever.

[@MFord2108]

Heavan will be a happier place with John Prine there. Oh! I oh, I oh!

[@tonpol8628]

if there's a heaven

[@mrchildgrownold3852]

@@tonpol8628 heard that, hard to praise an imaginary God when he promised to love you, but only if you love him back. Just a thought ✌️

[@yourturn777]

Lorrie Morgan says its "Hel vin"

[@katshotz6033]

And throughout all stages of his entrance into the public he never changed. Only his outside. Which means nothing! What a beautiful soul this man had.

[@davepower7170]

my best friend 1st introduced me to John Prine over 20yrs ago.....he has a lot of his vinyl..... thanks Tom....and thank you Mr Prine...a legend....RIP

[@eloisebush8485]

Beautiful person ,beautiful memories & music.

[@yvesf5355]

man he was good, so so sad ,God Bless John .

[@seanbeard7558]

R.I.P., Legend ❤

[@Hands2HealNow]

A pleasure to the heart every day.

[@mrchildgrownold3852]

Well said❤️

[@hollyeckford]

Man, Oh Man!!! Only the Best - if John Prine does n't get ta ya, well let's say : don't know what ever would !!? ☮️🐎🦅🪶💔🙏

[@jamesgibson9364]

I never knew him until he died and boy I sure did miss out because he was good thank God for records I listen now rip john

[@georgeconstantin1714]

Good fishin’ John . Bless you and Thanks .

[@Bdasef]

We all miss you John!!!!!!❣❣❣

[@yourturn777]

This is one of the sweetest things ive ever seen. 😢 John Prine, dancing! 💘✊ RIP

[@MICK9754]

Lost so many good artist this last 2 years , now we lost another GREAT ONE ,I was ,Born the same year as John ,, R.I.P JOHN

[@commdave]

Will be missed. Love his music.

[@adambell8962]

Thank You My Dear Friend.

[@nicolaheyesheyes4632]

God I miss you so much I love John Prine RIPxxxxx

[@averteklov3133]

I truly regret that I didn't discover his music sooner.

[@conniedurgin164]

Nahhh ... you discover his music at the right time. John Prine is TIMELESS.

[@tomcochrane56]

Magnificent!

[@chris62tt]

Thank you for posting this. That‘s really great.

[@kikenobel8724]

His musical simplicity makes him worthy of all protocolary prizes and awards .. But, his poetry and prophecy makes him a universal being .. !! From the country of the end of the world.(chile).my appreciation to the GREAT AMERICAN SING_AUTOR .. An immeasurable loss for our times..

[@carolynnash7900]

Wonderful concert. Thank you utube! Don't ever remove John's music.

[@philipfitzpatrick7765]

Saw John in my native Belfast what a performance legend RIP John

[@mrchildgrownold3852]

Glad you got to see this treasure, seen him a few times myself.greetings from the USA

[@leemdynamo]

He comes across as just himself. But, totally unique.

[@parkerfilms1]

I planned to go to this performance but had just finished my first chemo session and simply didn't have the strength to walk there. Life without John Prine songs would be no life at all!

[@leslier.3710]

Thanks so much for compiling all of John Prine's concerts at HSB. He seemed to enjoy playing at our little San Francisco festival. This video is one for the ages. We all miss you so much, John Prine! I had the privilege of seeing you on the Banjo stage (stage of honor) and once backstage at Kate Wolf. As a performer and songwriter, you gave it "your all!" We all miss you and are broken-hearted that this wretched virus took you from us. I'm a boomer and grew up listening to your music. You accompanied us on marches and down on through the decades. It was you who should have received the Medal of Freedom. (Folks, can we start a movement for that to happen posthumously?) I hope you and Warren H.are jamming together now. Gone but never forgotten.

[@tawanahbagwell7521]

I didn’t discover you till lately. Sorry I wasn’t in on Mr Prine from the beginning. I am hooked on this music!

[@charlessoukup1111]

John, born six months before me, danced ahead to leave a bit earlier, crossed many bridges i hadnt seen, always stayed by my side, though i burned my own brightly.

[@AdamChristel2000]

Growing up on his music from kid until now. He has always been a staple with me and my dad. The day i heard that Mr. Prine died i was completely floored to the point that i was in a bad dream. Thanks John for the impact you have had in my and you still will and when I get to Heaven I'm taking a stroll to the Tree Of Forgiveness RIP John Prine Your music shines on

[@matthewwebb8558]

If you like words, you like John Prine.

[@susunque2245]

I've never frequented much with technical. Yet, I do enjoy watching KZbin videos. I received video call with this news from the Nederlands. Not gonna embellish on deails..(already been there .Lol) I Honestly CANT STOP Listening to Your Music!!! The Humor you add in your songwriting is..JUST WHAT the World Needs to Go Around!! After a week of listening numerous times to all your albums..Its SO HEARTBREAKING to Know..you lost this war our World is in! Yet. Ironically I've found numerous songs of yours, as if you could predict some issues Our World would be Facing! You May be gone..yet..I can assure YOUR LEGEND WILL LIVE ON FOREVER MORE!!! LOVE your Lyrics! TOTALLY AGREE with the comment about feeling we done experienced things related to you INCREDIBLE lyrics! God Bless you John Prine.. (btw..I was 14 when your "Darling Darling".."🤔ohhh..the memories I continue to remember so vividly,..remain to this day. Even after nearly 50 years!!! You'll forever be Remembered and I'm sure your songs will remain as popular for many decades ahead. Let hope Everyone is Staying safe and at home!tate Stay Home & Stay Safe Rules.. p.s...best songwriting and singer in MY Lifetime! Thank you Jesus!!!💯🙏

[@harper-nicoleanderson7622]

I was there for one of these appearances but I missed him (There are like five stages) but I did see Emmy Lou and Doc Watson that day.

[@SibeDad]

Respect

[@mr.michaelshaughnessy7497]

Thank you for compiling this. Looking forward to "sheltering in Hellman Hollow" this coming October. It won't be the same without JP, but it might help heal our hearts.

[@davinjeffery7836]

Hey john awsome music !!

[@tjinnes]

Legend.

[@pauleasterbrook2036]

Love u Brother RIP Budgy n clan Australia

[@tobypuente8841]

Thank you, Sheri Sternberg, and the entire HSB staff...your responsibilities are carried out with such noble reason...you bring artists to our backyard to enrich our lives with the gift of music. And, we never miss a chance to hear the Go To Hell Man Clan, either, because we get to hear the songs your family grew up on...that's a real hoot! It's always been. Or, to famously quote, 'Hot Dog'!! You touch us down to the bone. You matter. We are better people when we leave Sunday night, thanks to you and your staff. Gratefully, Tobias

[@skeggiskjeldarson9513]

As always it makes me feel good watching Pat McLaughlin wiggling around playing his mandolin.

[@danrodgers1817]

love the feller on slide

[@alonzomosley7]

Thank you for this compilation.I thought an epitaph on Oliver Reeds gravestone seems to also appropriate for John Prine "You made the air move".Stay thirsty my friend.

[@kellymorgan1447]

I saw that show at G.G. Park !!!

[@tomf429]

What is it about John’s song Lake Marie that makes it better the more times you listen to it?

[@JKlasen]

Song tears me up every time. Open heart

[@paurickenny1861]

Unbelievable stuff from these guys

[@bill28104]

up there with Dylan as Best songwriter ever!

[@gudlikeplan182]

So happy to see him esp at 10:00 made my day.

[@pike8123]

Thanks for this.

[@maskandvaccinefreeandproud2110]

Incredible sound for a live outdoor event

[@tracymcelhenie3988]

Amazing how good John Prine was.Take the time and ask Suri to play some John Prine music .