John Prine’s Diamonds in the Rough may be the most important album in the world to me. It’s where outlaw meets protest, blended with cleverness, fun, and immense talent. I was raised on John Prine. I vividly remember singing “The Frying Pan” around the age of 5. When I left home at 18 to serve in the USAF, I would listen to it whenever I felt homesick. From then on, it became a staple and a comfort that brought me home.
When I learned of John Prine’s passing, I wept like a baby. My late father had played in the local bar scene for years, taking great pride in perfecting and emulating John Prine’s style.. all the way down to lyrical pronunciation. I can still hear my father’s voice come through in those records, especially Diamonds in the Rough.
I’m grateful to have seen Mr. Prine perform on multiple occasions, including once with my dad. Over the years, I’ve listened to and loved all of John Prine’s albums, and I can say with ease and confidence that it’s only a matter of time before they all make it onto my list of “must listens.”
– @meanwhile_in_music