The Gift of John Prine

A deep exploration of the humanity and cultural roots of one of the greatest songwriters, with never-before-seen interview material with Prine, his family, and friends.

With songs like “Angel from Montgomery,” “Illegal Smile,” “Hello in There,” “Paradise,” and “I Remember Everything,” John Prine transformed American songwriting and created simple yet profound statements on issues like war, religion, and our own humanity. His music was deeply influenced by his Kentucky roots, belief in family, spirituality, and a commitment to rural storytelling, shared by all 3 of his brothers. Chicago-based journalist Dave Hoekstra provides a unique portrait of this figure based on his long friendship with John Prine and Prine’s family and decades of oral histories with a wide cast of people, as well as insights into Kentucky storytelling traditions, local histories of the land (including Kentucky, Maywood/Chicago, and Nashville), and the Prine family’s dreams.

Developed in consultation with the last surviving brother Billy Prine and members of the Prine family and including a foreword by Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky, this book explores the cultural origins of Prine, his family, and their humanistic views. The tones are plain speak, as John was. Discover fresh views on the beloved singer-songwriter, his songs, and his enduring legacy.