Ep 2. John Prine

Austin City Limits is a legendary music television program that exists since 1974. The show has featured some of the most iconic musicians like Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, and BB King. It's a platform where artists from different genres come together and showcase their music. This season's second episode featured the legendary singer-songwriter John Prine.

John Prine is a folk-country singer who has been in the music industry for over 50 years. He started his career in the late 1960s in Chicago, Illinois, and gained popularity with his first album in 1971. Over the years, he has made a name for himself, not only as a singer but also as a talented songwriter. His music has influenced generations of musicians, and he has been honored with numerous awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2020 Grammys.

In this episode, John Prine takes the stage, backed by his band. He starts the show with his classic hit "Illegal Smile" from his first album. The audience cheers as he sings the first few lines. The song has become an anthem for Prine fans, and he delivers it with the same passion that he did over four decades ago. He stays true to the original, but his voice has mellowed over the years, giving it a more mature and nuanced feel.

Prine's second song is "Bruised Orange (Chain of Sorrow)," which he wrote in 1978. The song is a poignant ballad about the struggles of life. Prine's voice is raw and honest, and it's easy to see why so many people connect with his music. The songwriting is simple, but the emotions that it evokes are complex and universal. Prine effortlessly switches from heart-wrenching lyrics to deadpan humor, leaving the audience laughing and crying at the same time.

Throughout the show, Prine performs hits from his illustrious career, including "Angel From Montgomery," "Hello In There," "Sam Stone," and "Paradise." Each song is a story in itself, and Prine delivers them with the same intensity and passion that he did when he first wrote them. He's accompanied by his band, which includes some of the finest musicians in the industry. They complement Prine's music, adding depth and texture to his already powerful songs.

In between the songs, Prine talks to the audience, sharing stories from his life and how he came up with some of the songs. He's naturally funny and self-deprecating, and the audience is captivated by his every word. He comes across as a humble man who's grateful for the life he's had and the music that he's made.

As the show nears its end, Prine performs "Lake Marie" from his 1995 album "Lost Dogs and Mixed Blessings." The song is a haunting ballad about love, loss, and regret. Prine's voice is at its best here, and he pours his heart and soul into the performance. The audience is spellbound, and it's easy to see why Prine has such a loyal following.

Overall, the episode is a testament to John Prine's legacy as a singer-songwriter. He's a master storyteller who's able to capture the essence of life in his music. His songs are timeless, and they continue to resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds. Austin City Limits season 44 episode 2 featuring John Prine is a must-watch for anyone who loves good music.