John Prine, one of the world’s greatest songwriters, has reportedly died from complications related to the coronavirus.
Prine, known for such popular songs as “Angel From Montgomery” and “Hello In There,” was 73.
There has been no official statement, but his family reportedly confirmed to Rolling Stone.
He had been hospitalized due to the COVID-19 in late March, with word coming from his social media channels that the situation was dire.
“After a sudden onset of COVID-19 symptoms, John was hospitalized on Thursday (3/26),” a post on Prine’s Twitter page reads. “He was intubated Saturday evening and continues to receive care, but his situation is critical.”
The tweet went on to ask for support from Prine’s loyal fan base, which certainly includes a strong contingent in the Bay Area:
“This is hard news for us to share,” the tweet read. “But so many of you have loved and supported John over the years, we wanted to let you know, and give you the chance to send on more of that love and support now. And know that we love you, and John loves you.”
An update on John pic.twitter.com/fPQbv0tLyB
— John Prine (@JohnPrineMusic) March 29, 2020
Prine, 73, was a two-time Grammy winner known for such great tunes as “Sabu Visits the Twin Cities Alone,” “It’s a Big Old Goofy World,” “All the Best,” “Christmas in Prison,” “Everything Is Cool,” “Sam Stone” and, of course, “Angel from Montgomery,” which Bonnie Raitt helped popularize.
His 1971 self-titled album is one of the great debuts in country/rock/folk history. And his Grammy-winning 10th album, “The Missing Years,” is just as phenomenal.
Those looking to dive into the Prine songbook for the first time should consider doing so with the marvelous collection “Great Days: The John Prine Anthology.”
Besides recording nearly 20 studio albums, Prine remained a regular road warrior over the years and frequently brought his tours to Northern California. He was next set to perform in Northern California on Oct. 2 at the Golden State Theatre in Monterey.
