Top 10 Must-Hear John Prine Albums for Fans and Newcomers
Discover the top John Prine albums of all time! From self-titled classics to Grammy-winning releases, these records are a must-listen for fans of the legendary singer-songwriter.
John Prine's legacy in the world of folk and country music is undeniable. He is known for his storytelling abilities and his ability to craft songs that touch the soul of listeners. His music has inspired countless artists over the years, and his influence can be heard in the work of many modern-day musicians.
If you're a fan of John Prine's music, you know that it's impossible to choose just one favorite album. He has released so many great records over the years, each with its own unique sound and style. In this article, we'll be taking a look at some of his best albums and why they are worth listening to.
One of John Prine's most beloved albums is his self-titled debut, which was released in 1971. This album features some of his most iconic songs, including Sam Stone and Angel From Montgomery. The songs on this album are full of wit and humor, but they also tackle heavy subjects like war, addiction, and love. It's no wonder that this album has become a classic in the world of folk music.
Another great album in John Prine's discography is The Tree of Forgiveness, which was released in 2018. This album was Prine's first in over a decade, and it was well worth the wait. The songs on this album are a mix of old favorites and new material, and they showcase Prine's continued growth as an artist. It's a beautiful album that is sure to delight both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Bruised Orange is another standout album in John Prine's career. This album was released in 1978 and features some of his most introspective and reflective songs. The title track, Bruised Orange (Chain of Sorrow), is a haunting meditation on the nature of sadness and grief. Other standout tracks on this album include Sabu Visits the Twin Cities Alone and That's the Way That the World Goes 'Round.
One of John Prine's most underrated albums is Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings, which was released in 1995. This album features some of his most personal songs, including Lake Marie and You Got Gold. The songs on this album are full of emotion and heart, and they showcase Prine's ability to write about love and loss in a way that is both poignant and relatable.
Sweet Revenge is another classic album in John Prine's discography. This album was released in 1973 and features some of his most beloved songs, including Dear Abby and Grandpa Was a Carpenter. The songs on this album are full of humor and heart, and they showcase Prine's unique ability to tell stories through his music.
Another great album in John Prine's career is Fair and Square, which was released in 2005. This album features some of his most stripped-down and intimate songs, and it showcases his continued growth as an artist. Standout tracks on this album include Crazy as a Loon and Some Humans Ain't Human.
One of the most interesting albums in John Prine's discography is German Afternoons, which was released in 1986. This album features a mix of English and German language songs, and it showcases Prine's adventurous spirit as an artist. Standout tracks on this album include Unwed Fathers and Linda Goes to Mars.
Diamonds in the Rough is another classic album in John Prine's career. This album was released in 1972 and features some of his most beautiful and heartfelt songs. Standout tracks on this album include Sour Grapes and The Late John Garfield Blues.
In Spite of Ourselves is a unique album in John Prine's discography. This album features duets with some of the biggest names in country music, including Iris Dement, Lucinda Williams, and Emmylou Harris. The songs on this album are full of humor and heart, and they showcase Prine's ability to collaborate with other artists in a way that is both fun and meaningful.
Finally, The Singing Mailman Delivers is a posthumous release that showcases some of John Prine's earliest recordings. This album features songs that Prine recorded in the early 1970s while working as a mail carrier in Illinois. The songs on this album are raw and unpolished, but they showcase the raw talent and potential that would later make Prine a legend in the world of music.
In conclusion, John Prine has released many great albums over the years, each with its own unique sound and style. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, there's something for everyone in his discography. From his self-titled debut to his final album The Tree of Forgiveness, John Prine's music will continue to inspire and delight listeners for generations to come.
Introduction
John Prine was an American singer, songwriter, and musician who passed away in 2020. He was widely considered to be one of the most influential songwriters of his generation and was known for his witty and insightful lyrics. Prine released many albums throughout his career, each showcasing his unique style and talent. In this article, we will discuss some of the best John Prine albums that every fan should listen to.
John Prine (1971)
John Prine's eponymous debut album was released in 1971 and is considered a classic of the folk genre. The album features songs like Sam Stone, Hello in There, and Angel from Montgomery, which have become some of Prine's most beloved tunes. The album's stripped-down production and raw emotional power make it an essential listen for anyone interested in Prine's music.
Sweet Revenge (1973)
Sweet Revenge is John Prine's third studio album and is widely regarded as one of his best. The record features songs like Please Don't Bury Me, Christmas in Prison, and Grandpa Was a Carpenter. The album is notable for its mix of humorous and serious material and showcases Prine's ability to write songs that are both poignant and entertaining.
Diamonds in the Rough (1972)
Diamonds in the Rough is John Prine's second album and is often overlooked in favor of his more well-known releases. However, the album is a hidden gem that showcases Prine's talent as a songwriter and musician. The record features songs like Souvenirs, The Late John Garfield Blues, and Sour Grapes, which highlight Prine's ability to write songs that are both introspective and humorous.
Common Sense (1975)
Common Sense is John Prine's fourth studio album and features songs like Come Back to Us Barbara Lewis Hare Krishna Beauregard, Christmas in Prison, and Saddle in the Rain. The album is notable for its mix of country and rock influences and features some of Prine's most upbeat and catchy tunes.
Live (1988)
Live is a live album by John Prine that was recorded at various venues between 1970 and 1987. The record features many of Prine's most beloved songs, including Paradise, Donald and Lydia, and Illegal Smile. The album's raw energy and intimacy make it an essential listen for anyone interested in Prine's live performances.
The Missing Years (1991)
The Missing Years is John Prine's eleventh studio album and features collaborations with artists like Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, and Bonnie Raitt. The record features songs like All the Best, Picture Show, and Jesus the Missing Years, which showcase Prine's ability to write songs that are both humorous and thought-provoking.
Fair & Square (2005)
Fair & Square is John Prine's fourteenth studio album and features songs like Long Monday, Crazy as a Loon, and Some Humans Ain't Human. The album is notable for its stripped-down production and features some of Prine's most heartfelt and personal material. Fair & Square is a must-listen for anyone interested in Prine's later work.
The Tree of Forgiveness (2018)
The Tree of Forgiveness is John Prine's final studio album and was released in 2018, just two years before his death. The record features songs like Summer's End, Caravan of Fools, and When I Get to Heaven, which showcase Prine's ability to write songs that are both whimsical and profound. The Tree of Forgiveness is a fitting tribute to one of America's greatest songwriters.
In Spite of Ourselves (1999)
In Spite of Ourselves is a collaborative album by John Prine and various female vocalists, including Iris DeMent, Emmylou Harris, and Lucinda Williams. The record features cover versions of classic country songs as well as original material written by Prine. In Spite of Ourselves is a fun and lighthearted album that showcases Prine's ability to collaborate with other artists.
Conclusion
John Prine was a prolific and influential songwriter who left behind a rich legacy of music. While these ten albums represent just a small sample of Prine's discography, they are all essential listens for anyone interested in his work. From his early folk classics to his later, more introspective material, Prine's music remains timeless and relevant today. We hope this article has inspired you to explore the music of John Prine and discover some new favorites along the way.
John Prine was a legendary American singer-songwriter who left an indelible mark on the music industry. With his unique blend of folk, country, and rock music, he captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world. Throughout his career, he released numerous albums that showcased his incredible talent as a songwriter and musician. In this article, we will explore the ten best John Prine albums of all time.
The Early Years: John Prine's Debut Album
John Prine's debut album, simply titled John Prine, was released in 1971 and is considered one of the most influential folk albums of all time. The album contains some of Prine's most beloved songs, such as Sam Stone, Hello in There, and Angel from Montgomery. With his distinctive voice and insightful lyrics, Prine established himself as a formidable force in the music industry right from the start.The album's opening track, Illegal Smile, sets the tone for the rest of the record. It's a playful, upbeat song that showcases Prine's wit and humor. The song is about the joys of smoking marijuana, but it's also a commentary on the hypocrisy of society's attitudes towards drug use.Another standout track on the album is Sam Stone, a haunting ballad about a Vietnam veteran who turns to drugs to cope with his trauma. The song is a powerful indictment of the Vietnam War and the toll it took on soldiers and their families. Prine's empathetic lyrics and somber delivery make it one of his most moving songs.Overall, John Prine is a classic album that showcases Prine's immense talent as a songwriter and performer. It's a must-listen for any fan of folk or country music.Diamonds in the Rough: A Hidden Gem in John Prine's Discography
Released in 1972, Diamonds in the Rough is a lesser-known album in John Prine's discography, but it's no less impressive than his better-known works. The album features a collection of songs that were recorded during the same sessions as Prine's debut album but didn't make the final cut.One of the standout tracks on the album is Sour Grapes, a rollicking country-rock song that showcases Prine's playful side. The song is about a man who can't catch a break in life, and Prine's lyrics are both funny and poignant.Another standout track is The Late John Garfield Blues, a mournful ballad about a disillusioned actor who feels like he's wasted his life. The song is a commentary on the fleeting nature of fame and the toll it can take on those who achieve it.Overall, Diamonds in the Rough is a hidden gem in John Prine's discography that deserves more attention. It's a testament to Prine's talent as a songwriter that even his leftover tracks are so impressive.Sweet Revenge: A Classic Album from John Prine
Released in 1973, Sweet Revenge is widely regarded as one of John Prine's best albums. The album features some of Prine's most beloved songs, such as Dear Abby, Grandpa Was a Carpenter, and Christmas in Prison.One of the standout tracks on the album is Please Don't Bury Me, a funny yet morbid song about a man who doesn't want to be buried when he dies. The song shows off Prine's ability to find humor in even the darkest subjects.Another standout track is A Good Time, a rollicking country song about a man who just wants to have fun. The song is a celebration of life's simple pleasures, and Prine's infectious energy makes it impossible not to tap your feet along with the music.Overall, Sweet Revenge is a classic album that showcases John Prine's immense talent as a songwriter and performer. It's a must-listen for any fan of folk or country music.Bruised Orange: John Prine's Most Personal Work
Released in 1978, Bruised Orange is widely regarded as John Prine's most personal album. The album features songs that are deeply introspective and reveal a vulnerable side of Prine that he had not shown before.One of the standout tracks on the album is That's the Way That the World Goes 'Round, a catchy, upbeat song about the unpredictability of life. The song is a commentary on the absurdity of existence, and Prine's lyrics are both funny and poignant.Another standout track is Sabu Visits the Twin Cities Alone, a haunting ballad about a down-on-his-luck circus performer. The song is a meditation on loneliness and isolation, and Prine's empathetic lyrics make it one of his most moving songs.Overall, Bruised Orange is a deeply personal album that showcases John Prine's ability to write songs that are both introspective and relatable. It's a must-listen for any fan of Prine's music.Pink Cadillac: John Prine's Collaboration with Phil Spector
Released in 1979, Pink Cadillac is a unique album in John Prine's discography. The album was produced by legendary producer Phil Spector, who added his signature wall of sound to Prine's already impressive songs.One of the standout tracks on the album is Automobile, a rollicking rock song about a man's love for his car. The song is a celebration of American car culture, and Prine's catchy lyrics are perfectly complemented by Spector's production.Another standout track is Saigon, a haunting ballad about a Vietnam veteran who struggles to adjust to civilian life. The song is a powerful commentary on the toll that war can take on soldiers and their families, and Prine's empathetic lyrics make it one of his most moving songs.Overall, Pink Cadillac is a unique album that showcases John Prine's ability to adapt to different styles of music. It's a must-listen for any fan of Phil Spector's wall of sound or Prine's music.German Afternoons: John Prine's Exploration of His Heritage
Released in 1986, German Afternoons is an album that explores John Prine's German heritage. The album features songs that are infused with German folk elements, such as accordion and polka rhythms.One of the standout tracks on the album is Unwed Fathers, a heartbreaking ballad about a young couple facing an unplanned pregnancy. The song is a commentary on the stigma surrounding unwed mothers and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles.Another standout track is Let's Talk Dirty in Hawaiian, a funny yet infectious song about a couple trying to spice up their love life. The song is a celebration of the absurdity of life and the power of humor to bring people together.Overall, German Afternoons is a unique album that showcases John Prine's ability to incorporate different musical influences into his work. It's a must-listen for any fan of Prine's music.The Missing Years: John Prine's Grammy Award-Winning Comeback Album
Released in 1991, The Missing Years is widely regarded as John Prine's comeback album. The album features songs that are both introspective and funny, showcasing Prine's ability to find humor in even the darkest subjects.One of the standout tracks on the album is Jesus, The Missing Years, a funny yet insightful song about the years of Jesus' life that are not recorded in the Bible. The song is a commentary on the power of myth and the human need for stories.Another standout track is Picture Show, a haunting ballad about a man who feels like he's lost his place in the world. The song is a meditation on mortality and the fleeting nature of life, and Prine's empathetic lyrics make it one of his most moving songs.Overall, The Missing Years is a Grammy Award-winning album that showcases John Prine's ability to write songs that are both introspective and funny. It's a must-listen for any fan of Prine's music.In Spite of Ourselves: John Prine's Duets Album with Female Singers
Released in 1999, In Spite of Ourselves is a duets album that features John Prine singing with female singers such as Iris DeMent, Emmylou Harris, and Lucinda Williams. The album features covers of classic country songs as well as original songs written by Prine.One of the standout tracks on the album is the title track, In Spite of Ourselves, a funny yet sweet song about a couple who are deeply in love despite their flaws. The song is a celebration of the messiness of relationships and the power of love to overcome obstacles.Another standout track is So Sad (To Watch Good Love Go Bad), a heartbreaking ballad about a couple whose love has faded away. The song is a commentary on the fragility of relationships and the pain of letting go.Overall, In Spite of Ourselves is a unique album that showcases John Prine's ability to collaborate with other artists and create something truly special. It's a must-listen for any fan of country music or duets albums.Fair & Square: John Prine's Reflection on Aging and Mortality
Released in 2005, Fair & Square is an album that reflects John Prine's thoughts on aging and mortality. The album features songs that are both introspective and humorous, showcasing Prine's ability to find humor in even the darkest subjects.One of the standout tracks on the album is Crazy as a Loon, a funny yet insightful song about a man who feels like he's losing his mind. The song is a commentary on the challenges of getting older and the fear of losing control.Another standout track is Long Monday, a bittersweet ballad about a couple who are facing the end of their relationship. The song is a meditation on the fleeting nature of love and the pain of letting go.Overall, Fair & Square is a powerful album that showcases John Prine's ability to write songs that are both introspective and relatable. It's a must-listen for anyone who has ever thought about their own mortality.The Tree of Forgiveness: John Prine's Final Album and a Fitting Farewell
Released in 2018, The Tree of Forgiveness is John Prine's final album before his death in 2020. The album features songs that are both introspective and humorous, showcasing Prine's unique perspective on life and the world around him.One of the standout tracks on the album is Summer's End, a haunting ballad about the passing of time and the inevitability of change. The song is a meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the need to cherish every moment.Another standout track is When I Get to Heaven, a funny yet uplifting song about Prine's plans for the afterlife. The song is a celebration of life and a reminder to live every day to the fullest.Overall, The Tree of Forgiveness is a fitting farewell from one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. It showcases John Prine's immense talent as a songwriter and performer, and it's a must-listen for any fan of his music.In conclusion, John Prine was a truly unique artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. His albums are a testament to his talent as a songwriter and performer, and they continue to inspire new generations of musicians to this day. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering his music for the first time, these ten albums are essential listening for any lover of folk, country, or rock music.John Prine: The Best Albums and their Pros and Cons
Introduction
John Prine was one of the most prolific singer-songwriters of his time. He has left behind a legacy of music that has touched countless lives. The beauty of Prine's music is that it is timeless, and his lyrics are as relevant today as they were when they were first written. In this article, we will explore some of the best John Prine albums, their pros and cons, and provide a comparison table for easy reference.The Best John Prine Albums
1. John Prine (1971) - This album is considered a classic and features some of Prine's most beloved songs such as Sam Stone and Angel from Montgomery. It is a great introduction to Prine's unique style and storytelling ability.
2. Sweet Revenge (1973) - This album showcases Prine's versatility as a songwriter and includes hits like Please Don't Bury Me and Grandpa Was a Carpenter. It also features collaborations with Bonnie Raitt and Steve Goodman.
3. Common Sense (1975) - Common Sense is a more political album that explores social issues. It features the hit Come Back to Us Barbara Lewis Hare Krishna Beauregard and the controversial Your Flag Decal Won't Get You into Heaven Anymore.
4. The Missing Years (1991) - After a five-year hiatus, Prine returned with The Missing Years, which won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album. It features collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty and includes the hit Jesus The Missing Years.
5. Fair and Square (2005) - This album is considered one of Prine's best and won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album. It features the hit Long Monday and includes collaborations with Iris DeMent and Emmylou Harris.
Pros and Cons of the Best John Prine Albums
John Prine (1971)
- Pros: Features some of Prine's most iconic songs, great introduction to his music.
- Cons: Some of the production quality may feel dated to modern listeners.
Sweet Revenge (1973)
- Pros: Showcases Prine's versatility as a songwriter, collaborations with Bonnie Raitt and Steve Goodman.
- Cons: Some of the songs may feel less impactful compared to the hits on John Prine (1971).
Common Sense (1975)
- Pros: Explores social issues and political themes, features some of Prine's most thought-provoking songs.
- Cons: The controversial lyrics in Your Flag Decal Won't Get You into Heaven Anymore may turn off some listeners.
The Missing Years (1991)
- Pros: Grammy Award-winning album, features collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty.
- Cons: Some of the songs may feel less impactful compared to Prine's earlier works.
Fair and Square (2005)
- Pros: Grammy Award-winning album, considered one of Prine's best with collaborations with Iris DeMent and Emmylou Harris.
- Cons: Some may find the production quality too polished compared to Prine's earlier works.
Comparison Table
| Album | Year | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Prine | 1971 | Features some of Prine's most iconic songs, great introduction to his music. | Some of the production quality may feel dated to modern listeners. |
| Sweet Revenge | 1973 | Showcases Prine's versatility as a songwriter, collaborations with Bonnie Raitt and Steve Goodman. | Some of the songs may feel less impactful compared to the hits on John Prine (1971). |
| Common Sense | 1975 | Explores social issues and political themes, features some of Prine's most thought-provoking songs. | The controversial lyrics in Your Flag Decal Won't Get You into Heaven Anymore may turn off some listeners. |
| The Missing Years | 1991 | Grammy Award-winning album, features collaborations with Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty. | Some of the songs may feel less impactful compared to Prine's earlier works. |
| Fair and Square | 2005 | Grammy Award-winning album, considered one of Prine's best with collaborations with Iris DeMent and Emmylou Harris. | Some may find the production quality too polished compared to Prine's earlier works. |
Conclusion
John Prine's music will continue to resonate with generations to come. The albums listed above are just a few examples of his brilliance as a songwriter. Each album has its own pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, one thing is certain: John Prine's music will always be cherished and celebrated.Best John Prine Albums: A Must-Have for Every Folk Music Lover
Welcome to the end of our blog post about the best John Prine albums. We hope that by reading this article, you have discovered some of his great works and gained a deeper appreciation for this legendary musician's contribution to the world of folk music.
If you are new to John Prine's music, we highly recommend that you start with any of the albums we have featured in this blog post. Each one showcases his unique style and songwriting skills that have made him a beloved figure in the music industry.
John Prine's music is timeless, and his songs continue to inspire new generations of artists. His ability to capture the essence of human experiences and emotions through his lyrics is what makes him stand out from other musicians. His songs are honest, heartfelt, and always delivered with a touch of humor.
We understand that it can be challenging to choose which album to start with since all of them offer something different. However, we believe that any of the ten albums we have listed would make a great starting point.
If you are looking for a more upbeat album, then we suggest checking out Bruised Orange or Storm Windows. On the other hand, if you prefer a more introspective and reflective album, then Souvenirs or The Tree of Forgiveness might be more to your liking.
One of the things that make John Prine's music so special is his ability to tell a story through his songs. He has a way of painting vivid pictures with his words, transporting listeners to different places and times. Whether he's singing about love, loss, or everyday life, his songs never fail to leave a lasting impression.
Another reason why John Prine's music is so beloved is his unique voice. Although he may not have had the most technically perfect singing voice, his gravelly and whiskey-soaked vocals add a soulful and authentic quality to his songs.
John Prine's music has been covered by countless artists over the years, from Bonnie Raitt to Johnny Cash. His influence on other musicians is a testament to his talent and the impact he has had on the music industry.
In conclusion, John Prine's albums are a must-have for any folk music lover. We hope that this article has inspired you to explore his discography further and discover some of his lesser-known works. Thank you for reading, and we hope you continue to enjoy John Prine's timeless music for years to come.
People Also Ask About Best John Prine Albums
Who is John Prine?
John Prine was an American singer-songwriter and guitarist who was known for his unique style of folk music. Born in 1946 in Maywood, Illinois, he began his music career in the late 1960s and released his first album in 1971. He passed away on April 7, 2020, due to complications caused by COVID-19.
What are the best John Prine albums?
John Prine released a total of 18 studio albums throughout his career. Here are some of the best John Prine albums:
- Jesus: The Missing Years (1991): This album won a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album in 1992. It features a mix of upbeat and slow songs that showcase Prine's storytelling abilities.
- John Prine (1971): Prine's self-titled debut album is considered a classic in the folk music genre. It features songs such as Sam Stone and Angel from Montgomery.
- The Tree of Forgiveness (2018): This album was Prine's final studio album before his death in 2020. It received critical acclaim and features guest appearances by Jason Isbell and Amanda Shires.
- Sweet Revenge (1973): This album features some of Prine's most popular songs, including Dear Abby and Please Don't Bury Me.
- Pink Cadillac (1979): This album features a more rock-oriented sound than Prine's earlier work. It includes the popular song Saigon.
What is John Prine best known for?
John Prine is best known for his unique style of folk music and his ability to tell stories through his songs. He was also known for his dry sense of humor and his ability to find beauty in everyday life.