Known for his ingenious songwriting and tender, raspy voice, John Prine was a musical legend and leader for an entire generation of country-folk and Americana artists and songwriters of all kinds. It is with a heavy heart to learn of the passing of singer-songwriter John Prine, but while we mourn his loss, we will continue to listen to his music and spread his message of love and togetherness.
In 2019, Prine was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame and was nominated for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame the year prior. In 2015, he was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. He’s been a recipient of the PEN New England Lyrics Award, and he was to receive this year’s Icon Award at A2IM’s Libera Awards. In 2018, his album Tree of Forgiveness was nominated for Best Americana Album, while both his songs “Summer’s End” and “Knockin’ On Your Screen Door” were nominated for Best American Roots Song in the same year. Rolling Stone said the album was one of his greatest late career albums of all time.
In 1981, Prine founded his own independent record label in Nashville, Oh Boy Records. For over 40 years, Oh Boy Records released Prine’s incredible records, alongside special signings and collaborations from modern country/folk artists such as Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, Dan Auerbach, and many more. Oh Boy Records stands as the longest running artist-owned independent label in Nashville, and the second oldest in the United States.
We extend our deepest condolences to John Prine’s family and all those who were close to him. His music and distinct lyrics will be embedded in music history forever. In lieu of flowers or gifts at this time John Prine’s family ask that a donation be made to one of the following non-profits: Thistle Farms, Room In The Inn, Nashville Rescue Mission.
