The world of music is paying tribute to John Prine after the revered singer-songwriter died of coronavirus complications aged 73.
Prine, one of the most influential songwriters of his generation, died on Tuesday.
He was hospitalised in Nashville on 26 March with Covid-19 symptoms, according to his wife, Fiona Whelan Prine, who was also his manager.
“We join the world in mourning the passing of revered country and folk singer/songwriter John Prine,” the Recording Academy said in a written statement.
“Widely lauded as one of the most influential songwriters of his generation, John’s impact will continue to inspire musicians for years to come. We send our deepest condolences to his loved ones.”
Bruce Springsteen said he and the E Street Band were “crushed” by the loss of Prine.
”John and I were ‘New Dylans’ together in the early Seventies and he was never anything but the loveliest guy in the world. A true national treasure and a songwriter for the ages. We send our love and prayers to his family,” he wrote.
Carole King also honoured Prine’s memory, writing: ”The world lost a great songwriter yesterday. RIP #JohnPrine.”
Author Stephen King tweeted: “Coronavirus has taken one of the great ones: John Prine, dead at 73. So many memorable songs.”
Dire Straits’s Mark Knopfler wrote: ”Today I am so sad to learn of the loss of John Prine. His songs, full of humour, honesty and humanity, will endure in our affection always.”
The National Museum of American History highlighted Prine’s legacy in a tweet that reads: “John Prine left a half century’s worth of poignant observations in songs that could somehow feel both topical and timeless. He connected to his audiences with masterful evocations of side splitting humor, studied empathy, quiet indignation, and occasionally, sheer devastation.”
Charlie Daniels wrote: ”So sorry to hear about the passing of John Prine. Singer, performer and song writer extraordinaire. Rest In Peace Sir, you will be remembered and missed.”
The Grateful Dead’s Bob Weir tweeted: ”Via con Dios, my friend, @JohnPrineMusic. The light you’ve shown will outlive us all…”
Yusuf/Cat Stevens wrote of Prine: “May he achieve eternal peace in God’s light. Prayers and love to his family and friends.”
Stephen Colbert honoured Prine by writing: ”With a heavy heart, but deep love and gratitude for his gift he gave us all – Goodbye, John Prine.”
Additional reporting by agencies
