I’m a old friggin man i’m sitting here listening to this song with tears in my eyes. The last time you came to Portland Maine I couldn’t make it to your show I honestly don’t know how many times I’ve seen you live. So I just figured well I’ll see him again the next time he comes . Well it’s never gonna happen. Rest in peace my friend
I sit here today, profoundly sad that John Prine is no longer alive. Tears come easily as I listen to this song, finally understanding how it feels to grow old.
i know what you mean but just remember with out john we would not have these fantastic songs to listen to. every night my last song is hello in there !!! and i wait to see what tomorrow brings. Stay safe?
Thanks! I`m 64 years old. 40 years on the road With country and western all around Europa,mostly Norway.Always With my 12-string guitar.Thats my story a beutiful life!
Thanks for all the beautiful music, John. Damn this terrible virus. The music lives on but it won't be the same without you. Love to your family in an especially difficult time. And love to the greater family of fans.
So true. I've just felt so empty inside since I heard the news yesterday. The Angel flies over Montgomery to night with the Pink Full Moon. Bless you John Prine no one will ever touch my soul the way you have with your lyrics. Rest in Peace J.P. We all loved you so. Bless you Sir. ✌💞🎸🌹🙏 KEH 🇨🇦
John Prine's music belongs in the Library of Congress for the benefit of future generations, if for no other purpose than to help them to avoid the same mistakes we all made in our own lifetimes. Melodic, simple and hauntingly beautiful, his uncanny ability to understand human beings is unparalled in the history of modern music. God Bless John Prine.
been listening to this song for many years. It has led me to many "new" old friends. John Prine sings the truth. He is so right on about life...now and even 40 years ago.
Went to the nursing home to see my daddy today...this song is always in my head when I go there. I always say "Hello in there" to everyone, even though most of them can't talk back...I can see in their eyes they appreciate a kind word from even a stranger.
Don't know why but this song just suddenly started playing in my head , so here I am. now it seems like 1974, im a senior in high school and could not relate nearly as much as I do now. it seems like yesterday...hello in there.
Didnt discover this mans work until late 89/91 or so, but cant shake the feeling that his songs have affected me as deeply as any other artist of my era, Beatles, Who, Moody Blues, etc. When friends dis on country music I let them listen to John Prine...turns em right around, the love for humanity expressed is undeniable, humor universal.
This is perhaps one of the most beautiful renditions of what is perhaps one of the most beautiful songs in the world. Not enough people even know who John is.
Just lost my Daddy in January after spending much time with him and the other residents in a nursing home, my Mom is 87 and alone. My husband is in a nursing home now. As I walk through this life, John Prine reminds me to say 'Hello in There'. I do. Make a difference today, say Hello in There. See what happens...
Great advice AW and do the same-thanks to JP! Life moves fast enough as it is--taking time out to listen and chat with the 'above' generations is always worthwhile. Their 'take' on everything is honest and true-not a bit of guile anywhere. Am also hoping to prime the pump for when I'm that age. You've got a great attitude AW- and the beauty in it derives from your choice to be that way!
This song is like an arrow in my heart. I have lived in downtown Los Angeles, with many homeless people in the neighborhood. When I pass them by when walking, I always give them a buck or a meal ticket for the Local McDonalds, but I never feel that I can ever give them more to their lives.
My dad is 88 years old and often alone for some days. He never complains about this. I come to see him whenever I can. Sometimes we run out of things to talk about. This song reaffirmed me in what >i had already guessed: it is not stupid to drive for some miles to see your old parent, say hello in there, have a cup of coffee and leave. Much to the opposite, this is grtrat.
...breathtakingly beautiful ... and sad. Such a perfect, restrained, elegant trio. Thank you, ... all of you. What a genius of a songwriter: John Prine. And what humility, true musicianship. a treasure. ( I must say I also like the Natalie Merchant - Michael Stipe in Glasgow version.)
this is one of the greatest songs of all time. i've been listening to it for about forty years and it never gets old. john may not be as prolific as some but at his best he can't be beat.
JP is a poet laureate and an epic storyteller for a generation. He speaks to the heart, from his heart and he reaches the soul. Sometimes he's so cleaver or silly or charming; other times he just reminds us how to laugh at ourselves. Whether he is touching the heart strings, addressing social issues or just making fun of life, he never fails to entertain, educate and entreat. He is a craftsman of major proportions dealing in a medium that some may call simple; I call it masterful.
Sometimes I hear a song that touches me so deeply,Having been a nurse since 1970 I have witnessed our society change, When I was a youngster,back then the elderly were respected,now it seems their considered no longer of value.Long ago I learned that old people are like living books,sometimes its so amazing to here the story first hand.Every person who lives long enough will become old.What are we as a society afraid of,Botox anyone.Carson aka uncle Henrietta
Thanks to my Dad I grew up on John Prine. This is an exquisitely haunting version of Hello In There. Thank you im4out for posting this. And remember if your walking down the street sometime.....
me too .. I had the great honour & pleasure to see John 10/19/12 .. there were tears, laughter, singing along and intense listening at this concert .. Love John
Saw this fine fellow a zillion years ago at symphony hall in Boston and he sang this song with youthful caring and and now with an arrangement and time's inexorable march he's so much closer and he is a hell of a big heart. Thanks.
You are welcome. When I first heard this song as an young man many years ago I could understand it then and now with all those loved ones who have passed, I now live what they went through.gsb
I'm so glad I heard this song when it first came out. It gave me time to (mostly) give to Mom and Dad. Also gave me the strength to volunteer at a "rest home". And to tell the truth, they gave me so much strength when my mother (who was living there) died. I was even able to give the "speech" that I never thought I had the strength to do. Again, John should be America's poet laureate.
This song hits me hard. My mom died 3 years ago. I visited her and her friends every day for four years. I never thought about having friends in their 80s and 90s. They're pretty special. Now I'm getting to the age where I need people to "Say Hello In There"
Yes, the best youtube sound quality rendition of this song, which condenses so much truth and kindness in each word, emphasised in each note. We had the privilege to hear him perform 'Hello in There' recently in Glasgow, Scotland. The large but quiet and listening audience were spellbound. Thank you, John Prine. And thanks to the person posted this.
This is one of my all time favorite songs. It is wonderfully sad. The song captures a piece of American life that I hope we can all relate to. John Prine is an American treasure.
John Prine is probably one of the GREATEST American artist I ever had the honor to see live in concert. Not only his music but his lyrics are so beautiful... How can you NOT love Mr. Prine. I have to tell you Sir. I love all of your songs. Every single one!. I have seen you in concert 3 times... I wish I could have seen you more. Mr. Prine, you are an artist. You are a American poet with a guitar in his hand. Well, I just have to say...Hello in there!
Most of us who listen to this song are living the words. Peace be with you, now they "say peace out" meaning same thing. Their not such a bad lot... I do beleive this old world of ours is getting better. Thoughts from old grump. gsb
Probably the best song ever written about growing old. If this doesn't make you cry, you must be dead. Prine is a poet - writes directly from his heart to yours.
rolling stone does those issues about the 100 greatest songs. this should be in the top ten. i've listened to it for over forty years and it never gets old. yes, the sixties was about great music and john prine was one of the best
John with this song taught me so much. May I say in the world with the older folks I come across, I take a great pride knowing how important it is to say, "Hello in there'. I've done it now for years and folks really appreciate being noticed, spoken to and smiled at. We all just want to be loved.
If the world is still around in a hundred years, and people are still listening to music, they will be listening to this and many other John Prine songs.
Hearing this 36 years ago changed my way of seeing old people.As a younger person I think I was like many who are afraid that it will happen to them,its a youthful denial.Just a smile to a person who really is there is a great help.
My Father has Cancer and is with Hospice right now and Mother in final stages of Alzheimer's..... Thank you for this post!!! No words to express what this song means to me right now.
Gawd-damn, Prine is indefatigable. This song, from the first time I heard it on his debut album through this performance I just listened to right now, just sounds sweeter and sweeter and tugs real hard on my heart strings. More, being older and now on the other side of the story, the acute poignancy just goes deeper and I'll just stop there with a parting wish that John Prine might one day stop and say hello in there for me.
I've lived every song ..... it's been a hell of a ride... for the people who lose themselves in the words of a John prine song.... listen and ask till you understand... you'll be much richer for the Love of all the stories
I feeel you, Perbie Halmer, and it's because of John Prine's deeper sense...of people...of places...of the places people find themselves in, and lose themselves, too. I love his knack for telling all those stories, and although I've never met the man, I feel a level of honesty, and honest compassion in him that comes through the lines of those stories. Look at me -- I'm fumbling the words I can see so clearly, so I'm going to wish you all well, and most of all I wish for all of us to continue on growing older together with our mutual friend, John Prine. After all, there will always be more stories to share, eh?
Beautiful song.John Prine is a very talented writer/singer who unfortunately is not widely known.Thanks to the Marty Stuart Show I discovered John Prine.
It is songs like this in times like these--that we all so desperately need. Lovely. Happy belated 70th birthday, John. As I stretch myself to become 71, this song has an added poignancy and meaning.
Sir John we lost our beautiful handsome blue eyed Son on the road at 17 yrs old so when you sing of your Davy it tears my soul out. Much love mr musical Maestro. Padge 👍👏💪🎼🎸🏇🏇🏇😍
Hello in there I am old now back in the day I loved this song was young then we played in a band at the time never thought I old ?? Sorry to ramble on just such a beautiful song thanks John!
always dead brillant always brings a tear to my heart . i have heard this song all my life . thank you john prine songs will always make you a better person
Words simply cannot describe how highly I regard this man. For someone to have written a song like this at such a tender age is amazing. I can't believe how few people seem to know about him outside the US, everyone knows Dylan but mention John Prine and you get a blank look. I guess that makes him more exclusive. If I could meet any one person I think it may be John, a truly great talent and a wonderful person.
Mainz Man I think you would be surprised how many people know and love him and his music. I saw him live at a College in Ottawa, Canada about 40 years ago. My Cousin introduced me to his music. My Hubbie and I both love his work. SO MANY incredibly written, poignant, searing stories of hope, love and loss. His anti-war songs are gut-wrenching ( Sam Stone, Take the Star Out Of The Window, etc,). He certainly has a following in Canada.
When I first heard this song back in the day I was young and cryed never thought as times goes bye I whould cry for something that whould a cry lost my SON JOHN in the war and I am a a MAN Just say HI.
Simply wonderful! Love Jason Wilbur and the whole band. Saw Jason Wilbur play with Greg Brown then again later that year with John Prine, really enjoyed hearing him play as well.
had the pleasure of seeing him at artpark in lewiston, ny W/ arlo guthrie in the 80s. OUTSTANDING! 1 of the best songwriters of all time.... j prine, warren zevon,bob dylan, robert hunter,harry nillsson,lennon n mcartney, johnny cash.willy nelson, merle haggard gordon lightfoot. list goes on.
I'm a Presbyterian pastor who cares deeply about our aging parishioners. This song gets me right in the gut every time I hear it. Thanks for posting this!
I have been and always will be a John Prine fan, and saw him almost every year in th 80's and again last year-what a great personality, poet and wry humorist
Man....I love this guys music. I discovered him by accident a few years back, and have been a big fan since. His lyrics really cut to the core of things dont they? When im feeling down, I pour a whiskey and listen to some Prine out on the porch with the pooch...good therapy :)
always dead brillant. john makes us better people thank god i have had the pleasure to listen to him my entire life it helps us get through all the stuff we dont want to understand or cant . john prine fans are a rare breed. happy to be.
Nope. Human empathy. He used to work in an old folks home, and the residents there would talk to him like he knew them. So he would go along with it, like they were his mom or dad, since they thought he was their son. Not God at work, just an empathetic good heart.
One of my favorite songs. I spent time with my husband in a nursing home and this tells it like it is, it is very lonely. Say hello today to an elderly person when you pass, it will put a smile on their face.
John Prine has a heart that has been blessed with intelligence, wisdom and pure understanding of our lifeflow. This is one of the most beautiful songs I have had the honor to hear. I love his performance on this video, and I also loved the first time I heard this song as sung by Joan Baez. I have always loved and cherished the elderly for their wisdom God bless you John for such a loving tribute and for reminding all that they should never be just tossed out like old toys. Just beautiful!
I’m a old friggin man i’m sitting here listening to this song with tears in my eyes. The last time you came to Portland Maine I couldn’t make it to your show I honestly don’t know how many times I’ve seen you live. So I just figured well I’ll see him again the next time he comes . Well it’s never gonna happen. Rest in peace my friend
Rest in peace John Prine. And thank you for sharing your beautiful music with the world. What a gift.
I sit here today, profoundly sad that John Prine is no longer alive.
Tears come easily as I listen to this song, finally understanding how it feels to grow old.
i know what you mean but just remember with out john we would not have these fantastic songs to listen to. every night my last song is hello in there !!! and i wait to see what tomorrow brings. Stay safe?
the first time I heard Hello In There I was 18 I'm now 56 and this song is more important than before.
Yes. Agree exactly. As a Canadian, John Prine is a American legend.
Indeed it does. At 64, I feel every note of this song.
Thanks! I`m 64 years old. 40 years on the road With country and western all around Europa,mostly Norway.Always With my 12-string guitar.Thats my story
a beutiful life!
Thanks for all the beautiful music, John. Damn this terrible virus. The music lives on but it won't be the same without you. Love to your family in an especially difficult time. And love to the greater family of fans.
So true.
I've just felt so empty inside since I heard the news yesterday.
The Angel flies over Montgomery to night with the Pink Full Moon.
Bless you John Prine no one will ever touch my soul the way you have with your lyrics.
Rest in Peace J.P.
We all loved you so.
Bless you Sir.
✌💞🎸🌹🙏
KEH 🇨🇦
John Prine's music belongs in the Library of Congress for the benefit of future generations, if for no other purpose than to help them to avoid the same mistakes we all made in our own lifetimes. Melodic, simple and hauntingly beautiful, his uncanny ability to understand human beings is unparalled in the history of modern music. God Bless John Prine.
Tom Wray, I was just gonna say that...... So I'll just say, he's simply, THE BEST.
tom wray i agree it's brilliant,
Amen.
Jeez...take it easy...it's showbiz folks...don't wet your panties....
It's sad; you don't get it. SMH
been listening to this song for many years. It has led me to many "new" old friends. John Prine sings the truth. He is so right on about life...now and even 40 years ago.
So pretty, so sad.......RIP John....I hope I see ya' up there. Such a sensitive, clever, gifted man.
One of his best songs...but there are so many to choose from. He's been in my grateful head since the early 70's.
The saddest song he ever wrote, seems like I’m living this now,. I’m sure gonna miss John Prine, just knowing he’s gone hurts.
I don't know about that. This was sad but "Far From Me" was at least as sad.
Not sure how anyone could not like or love this song. I grew up on this album. Love John Prine.
A simple Hello from the right person can make your whole day, and put you in a good mood for the next
What's better than poetry and music ?
John Prine.
Thank you John for all the beauty that you have given us.
God Bless you.
A fan
I wouldn’t call John a songwriter. He’s a poet that writes straight from the heart and puts music to it. Miss you every day. RIP.
All of his songs have so much meaning to me... Unreal.... My husband and i had so much fun listening to his music... Hello in there ;-)
Rest in Peace, John. You were on of the greats.
Went to the nursing home to see my daddy today...this song is always in my head when I go there. I always say "Hello in there" to everyone, even though most of them can't talk back...I can see in their eyes they appreciate a kind word from even a stranger.
Don't know why but this song just suddenly started playing in my head , so here I am. now it seems like 1974, im a senior in high school and could not relate nearly as much as I do now. it seems like yesterday...hello in there.
Didnt discover this mans work until late 89/91 or so, but cant shake the feeling that his songs have affected me as deeply as any other artist of my era, Beatles, Who, Moody Blues, etc. When friends dis on country music I let them listen to John Prine...turns em right around, the love for humanity expressed is undeniable, humor universal.
This is perhaps one of the most beautiful renditions of what is perhaps one of the most beautiful songs in the world. Not enough people even know who John is.
Just lost my Daddy in January after spending much time with him and the other residents in a nursing home, my Mom is 87 and alone. My husband is in a nursing home now. As I walk through this life, John Prine reminds me to say 'Hello in There'. I do. Make a difference today, say Hello in There. See what happens...
Great advice AW and do the same-thanks to JP! Life moves fast enough as it is--taking time out to listen and chat with the 'above' generations is always worthwhile. Their 'take' on everything is honest and true-not a bit of guile anywhere. Am also hoping to prime the pump for when I'm that age. You've got a great attitude AW- and the beauty in it derives from your choice to be that way!
Thanks, Anita. I am so thankful that there are others who understand and act on this. I have always tried to do so, as well.
Unbelievable.. phenomenal. Artist.
This song is like an arrow in my heart. I have lived in downtown Los Angeles, with many homeless people in the neighborhood. When I pass them by when walking, I always give them a buck or a meal ticket for the Local McDonalds, but I never feel that I can ever give them more to their lives.
My dad is 88 years old and often alone for some days. He never complains about this. I come to see him whenever I can. Sometimes we run out of things to talk about. This song reaffirmed me in what >i had already guessed: it is not stupid to drive for some miles to see your old parent, say hello in there, have a cup of coffee and leave. Much to the opposite, this is grtrat.
...breathtakingly beautiful ... and sad. Such a perfect, restrained, elegant trio. Thank you, ... all of you. What a genius of a songwriter: John Prine. And what humility, true musicianship. a treasure. ( I must say I also like the Natalie Merchant - Michael Stipe in Glasgow version.)
this is one of the greatest songs of all time. i've been listening to it for about forty years and it never gets old. john may not be as prolific as some but at his best he can't be beat.
I was so lucky to grow up in Chicago in the 60's to experience all of this first-hand.
JP is a poet laureate and an epic storyteller for a generation. He speaks to the heart, from his heart and he reaches the soul. Sometimes he's so cleaver or silly or charming; other times he just reminds us how to laugh at ourselves. Whether he is touching the heart strings, addressing social issues or just making fun of life, he never fails to entertain, educate and entreat. He is a craftsman of major proportions dealing in a medium that some may call simple; I call it masterful.
Sometimes I hear a song that touches me so deeply,Having been a nurse since 1970 I have witnessed our society change, When I was a youngster,back then the elderly were respected,now it seems their considered no longer of value.Long ago I learned that old people are like living books,sometimes its so amazing to here the story first hand.Every person who lives long enough will become old.What are we as a society afraid of,Botox anyone.Carson aka uncle Henrietta
Thanks to my Dad I grew up on John Prine. This is an exquisitely haunting version of Hello In There. Thank you im4out for posting this. And remember if your walking down the street sometime.....
What a beautiful but sad song.Yes,the truth sometimes hurts.John Prine is a great artist like so many never got the recognition he deserves.
me too .. I had the great honour & pleasure to see John 10/19/12 .. there were tears, laughter, singing along and intense listening at this concert .. Love John
Saw this fine fellow a zillion years ago at symphony hall in Boston and he sang this song with youthful caring and and now with an arrangement and time's inexorable march he's so much closer and he is a hell of a big heart. Thanks.
You are welcome. When I first heard this song as an young man many years ago I could understand it then and now with all those loved ones who have passed, I now live what they went through.gsb
This song never grows old.
May you rest in Peaceful Waters John. God speed!
It is amazing how he overlays the lyrics to the tune. Love you John and son Tommy.
I'm so glad I heard this song when it first came out. It gave me time to (mostly) give to Mom and Dad. Also gave me the strength to volunteer at a "rest home". And to tell the truth, they gave me so much strength when my mother (who was living there) died. I was even able to give the "speech" that I never thought I had the strength to do. Again, John should be America's poet laureate.
It's a wonder what a genuis with a gift for words and melody can achieve with a single beat up guitar. A true poet of the people.
I've sang this for years. It is one of the most beautiful and heart wrenching songs I know. Mom would cry every time I sang it.
I have been a Prine fan since the 70's. Been playing his tunes on my own guitar since then we have aged, the songs have held their own.
This song hits me hard. My mom died 3 years ago. I visited her and her friends every day for four years. I never thought about having friends in their 80s and 90s. They're pretty special. Now I'm getting to the age where I need people to "Say Hello In There"
Beautiful. Sessions at West 54th does it again. An American Songwriter icon. Love him. Thanks for posting.
I just "discovered" this musician...truly moving. Beautiful and simple melodies, meaningful lyrics. Merci
:)
The best rendition on CZcams..No hootin' and hollerin' from the audience in between every verse. You can hear every note and instrument.
TheGhost5600 a freaking man
Yes, the best youtube sound quality rendition of this song, which condenses so much truth and kindness in each word, emphasised in each note. We had the privilege to hear him perform 'Hello in There' recently in Glasgow, Scotland. The large but quiet and listening audience were spellbound. Thank you, John Prine. And thanks to the person posted this.
I and you, have heard so many songs in our lives, but this is one of the best that hits my heart.
That song can't be played any better'n that. Wow, just wow.
Without a doubt one of the most heart wrenching songs ever created. Just so intense, and yet so simple in it's message.
This is one of my all time favorite songs. It is wonderfully sad. The song captures a piece of American life that I hope we can all relate to. John Prine is an American treasure.
Definitely one if the best singer, song writers of all time . BAR NONE .
John Prine is probably one of the GREATEST American artist I ever had the honor to see live in concert. Not only his music but his lyrics are so beautiful... How can you NOT love Mr. Prine. I have to tell you Sir. I love all of your songs. Every single one!. I have seen you in concert 3 times... I wish I could have seen you more. Mr. Prine, you are an artist. You are a American poet with a guitar in his hand. Well, I just have to say...Hello in there!
This is one of the finest pieces of songwriting ever! As I get a little older this song really hits home.
Most of us who listen to this song are living the words. Peace be with you, now they "say peace out" meaning same thing. Their not such a bad lot... I do beleive this old world of ours is getting better. Thoughts from old grump. gsb
Probably the best song ever written about growing old. If this doesn't make you cry, you must be dead. Prine is a poet - writes directly from his heart to yours.
When I first heard this song I didn't pay it much attention. I couldn't relate to it ....now I can. Thanks.
rolling stone does those issues about the 100 greatest songs. this should be in the top ten. i've listened to it for over forty years and it never gets old. yes, the sixties was about great music and john prine was one of the best
the plaintive sound of the old and forgotten brought to life through the guitar strings, lyrics and honest voice of JP as no one else can do it
John with this song taught me so much. May I say in the world with the older folks I come across, I take a great pride knowing how important it is to say, "Hello in there'. I've done it now for years and folks really appreciate being noticed, spoken to and smiled at. We all just want to be loved.
I have a lot of respect and love for John Prine. He is in a class all by himself. His music always has the ability to move me like no other artist.
If the world is still around in a hundred years, and people are still listening to music,
they will be listening to this and many other John Prine songs.
I have been listening to John Prine sin the early 70s and I love him more than ever
Hearing this 36 years ago changed my way of seeing old people.As a younger person I think I was like many who are afraid that it will happen to them,its a youthful denial.Just a smile to a person who really is there is a great help.
Can't wait to see him tomorrow night!!! What a story teller. One of the best.
how can anybody not like this? sublime
Saw John in concert Saturday in Phoenix. This song was the highlight in my opinion.
Today is World Hello Day.
My Father has Cancer and is with Hospice right now and Mother in final stages of Alzheimer's..... Thank you for this post!!! No words to express what this song means to me right now.
After listening to this song some time ago, I make a point of always saying hallo to old folk. I'm 76
Gawd-damn, Prine is indefatigable. This song, from the first time I heard it on his debut album through this performance I just listened to right now, just sounds sweeter and sweeter and tugs real hard on my heart strings. More, being older and now on the other side of the story, the acute poignancy just goes deeper and I'll just stop there with a parting wish that John Prine might one day stop and say hello in there for me.
excellent comment. cheers. i was young as well. know I'm older too...the meaning has changed for me too.
I've lived every song ..... it's been a hell of a ride... for the people who lose themselves in the words of a John prine song.... listen and ask till you understand... you'll be much richer for the Love of all the stories
I feeel you, Perbie Halmer, and it's because of John Prine's deeper sense...of people...of places...of the places people find themselves in, and lose themselves, too. I love his knack for telling all those stories, and although I've never met the man, I feel a level of honesty, and honest compassion in him that comes through the lines of those stories. Look at me -- I'm fumbling the words I can see so clearly, so I'm going to wish you all well, and most of all I wish for all of us to continue on growing older together with our mutual friend, John Prine. After all, there will always be more stories to share, eh?
Thanks Tim, your words of 3 years ago are...... well I don't know what to say really. I'm 70 now and I can't just pass them by ... say hello.
This is the first time I've seen this man who writes such great songs.
Rest in peace old friend, god speed.
Beautiful song.John Prine is a very talented writer/singer who unfortunately is not widely known.Thanks to the Marty Stuart Show I discovered John Prine.
It is songs like this in times like these--that we all so desperately need. Lovely. Happy belated 70th birthday, John. As I stretch myself to become 71, this song has an added poignancy and meaning.
Beautiful. As always. Happy Birthday, John Prine.
:)
Sir John we lost our beautiful handsome blue eyed Son on the road at 17 yrs old so when you sing of your Davy it tears my soul out. Much love mr musical Maestro. Padge 👍👏💪🎼🎸🏇🏇🏇😍
People do not appreciate others just like that do not completely appreciate the talent of John Prine, the world needs to improve!
Hello in there I am old now back in the day I loved this song was young then we played in a band at the time never thought I old ?? Sorry to ramble on just such a beautiful song thanks John!
I can never get enough of John Prine and his songs. He gets you where you live.
I hope to see you soon. Jeannette
John Prine is certainly a gift from the universe to us. Can't say she never gave us anything.
Right there is why Prine is the greatest songwriter!
I LOVE this MAN & I LOVE this SONG. Have been a fan for many years. Will never tire of his musical offerings. Thanks John.
This dude keeps it real.Just keep on keeping on John Prine.The world's a better place when you do!
Thanks Colbert for having this musical genius on your show
always dead brillant always brings a tear to my heart . i have heard this song all my life . thank you john prine songs will always make you a better person
Words simply cannot describe how highly I regard this man. For someone to have written a song like this at such a tender age is amazing. I can't believe how few people seem to know about him outside the US, everyone knows Dylan but mention John Prine and you get a blank look. I guess that makes him more exclusive.
If I could meet any one person I think it may be John, a truly great talent and a wonderful person.
Mainz Man I think you would be surprised how many people know and love him and his music. I saw him live at a College in Ottawa, Canada about 40 years ago. My Cousin introduced me to his music. My Hubbie and I both love his work. SO MANY incredibly written, poignant, searing stories of hope, love and loss. His anti-war songs are gut-wrenching ( Sam Stone, Take the Star Out Of The Window, etc,). He certainly has a following in Canada.
John is like fine wine, he just gets better every day. Hello, John.
I luv this song,I have since my kids were small & now they are grown & gone & I feel the song. Thanks John for all the memories.
John Prine has to be one of the best kept song-writing secrets of all time.
Such a stark, beautiful song with such eloquent lyrics. The slide guitar on this is just perfect, soft & impeccably clean.
When I first heard this song back in the day I was young and cryed never thought as times goes bye I whould cry for something that whould a cry lost my SON JOHN in the war and I am a a MAN Just say HI.
Simply wonderful! Love Jason Wilbur and the whole band. Saw Jason Wilbur play with Greg Brown then again later that year with John Prine, really enjoyed hearing him play as well.
had the pleasure of seeing him at artpark in lewiston, ny W/ arlo guthrie in the 80s. OUTSTANDING! 1 of the best songwriters of all time.... j prine, warren zevon,bob dylan, robert hunter,harry nillsson,lennon n mcartney, johnny cash.willy nelson, merle haggard gordon lightfoot. list goes on.
Have always liked this song and am a huge John Prine fan.
I'm a Presbyterian pastor who cares deeply about our aging parishioners. This song gets me right in the gut every time I hear it. Thanks for posting this!
I first heard this song over 45 years ago when I was I was in college. I loved in than and I love it as much now. It does not get better than this.
poets of the soul, Mr Prine....your words and music bring me to tears....your words are timeless.....
I have been and always will be a John Prine fan, and saw him almost every year in th 80's and again last year-what a great personality, poet and wry humorist
One of the most desperately sad songs I've ever heard, but sometimes, I just have to hear it again...and again...
Man....I love this guys music. I discovered him by accident a few years back, and have been a big fan since. His lyrics really cut to the core of things dont they? When im feeling down, I pour a whiskey and listen to some Prine out on the porch with the pooch...good therapy :)
always dead brillant. john makes us better people thank god i have had the pleasure to listen to him my entire life it helps us get through all the stuff we dont want to understand or cant . john prine fans are a rare breed. happy to be.
How does a 21 year old write this song? It just doesn't seem possible. It must be a gift from god.
Gregg H Yep - empathy
Nope. Human empathy. He used to work in an old folks home, and the residents there would talk to him like he knew them. So he would go along with it, like they were his mom or dad, since they thought he was their son. Not God at work, just an empathetic good heart.
One of my favorite songs. I spent time with my husband in a nursing home and this tells it like it is, it is very lonely. Say hello today to an elderly person when you pass, it will put a smile on their face.
John Prine has a heart that has been blessed with intelligence, wisdom and pure understanding of our lifeflow. This is one of the most beautiful songs I have had the honor to hear. I love his performance on this video, and I also loved the first time I heard this song as sung by Joan Baez. I have always loved and cherished the elderly for their wisdom God bless you John for such a loving tribute and for reminding all that they should never be just tossed out like old toys. Just beautiful!