John Prine's John Prine

John Prine, the Mark Twain of American songwriting, has written a book about his life and career, exploring his roots in rural Western Kentucky and suburban Maywood, Illinois, and the Chicago neighborhoods, characters, and clubs that shaped his music. The book is a journalistic inquiry and a love letter to Prine's debut album and the Midwestern city that made him.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 16 December 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Mark Twain, the renowned American songwriter, is often referred to as the "Mark Twain of American songwriting." His remarkable talent was in transforming the ordinary experiences of everyday people into profound and thought-provoking statements on war, industrialization, religion, and the human condition. As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of his iconic album, John Prine takes us on a captivating journey to explore the origins and ascent of this legendary singer-songwriter.

Born and raised in Middle America, Prine's journey from a singing mailman to a celebrated son of Chicago is nothing short of remarkable. His debut album, "John Prine," released in 1971, showcased his unique voice and storytelling abilities, earning him critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Among the standout tracks on the album are "Illegal Smile," "Hello in There," "Sam Stone," "Paradise," "Your Flag Decal Wont Get You Into Heaven Anymore," "Far from Me," "Donald and Lydia," and "Angel from Montgomery." These songs have become standards in the American Songbook, covered by countless artists and admirers.

In her book, "John Prine: In His Own Words," author Erin Osmon delves deep into the people, places, and experiences that inspired Prine's landmark debut. Through original interviews, extensive research, and insightful commentary, Osmon paints an in-depth portrait of the man behind the music.

The book begins by tracing Prine's roots in rural Western Kentucky and suburban Maywood, Illinois. It explores the formative years that shaped his musical style and lyrical sensibility. From the clubs and coffeehouses of Chicago in the 1960s and 70s to the emergence of the new Nashville scene, Prine's journey is a testament to his resilience and determination.

"John Prine: In His Own Words" is not just a journalistic inquiry; it is also a love letter to Prine's self-titled debut and the Midwestern city that made him. Osmon captures the essence of Prine's music and the spirit of the city that nurtured his talent. The book provides a glimpse into the lives of the characters who influenced Prine's songs, the places that shaped his worldview, and the experiences that shaped his songwriting.

Through its pages, readers are transported back to a time when music was a powerful tool for social commentary and cultural exploration. Prine's songs spoke directly to the hearts and minds of his listeners, offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of ordinary people.

In conclusion, "John Prine: In His Own Words" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of music and the profound impact of storytelling. It is a tribute to the legacy of Mark Twain and a celebration of the talent and resilience of John Prine. As we continue to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his debut album, let us remember the words of Prine himself: "I write songs because I have to, and I sing them because I want to."

Weight: 156g
Dimension: 120 x 164 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501379239