The family of country music legend John Prine is planning a massive celebration ahead of what would’ve been his 75th birthday on October 10th.
It will be called “You Got Gold: Celebrating the Life & Songs of John Prine,” and hosted across a number of locations in Nashville the week of his birthday, starting with two performances at the Ryman Auditorium on October 6th & 7th.
According to his website,
“Each of these shows will include a unique surprise line-up of friends performing and celebrating John’s inimitable life and songs.”
That’s the coolest part about it. All four concerts with include surprise guests, so there’s not telling who will show up at each show to sing his songs. I do have a couple guesses, though…
Sturgill Simpson recently did a cover of John’s song “Paradise,” so I wouldn’t be surprised at all to see him at one (or all) of the shows. Kacey Musgraves is a huge fan of John, so maybe she’ll make an appearance, too.
Brandi Carlile is also one of the artists, along with Sturgill, who will be included on the upcoming tribute album Broken Hearts & Dirty Windows, Songs of John Prine, Vol.2, with her rendition of “I Remember Everything.”
That record is being released on October 8th, the week of the shows, so you can probably bet on her showing up, as well.
Proceeds from the concerts that week will benefit the newly-created The Hello In There Foundation, named after his 1971 song of the same title. Their mission:
“Aims to identify and collaborate with individuals and communities where people of all ages are marginalized, discriminated against or, for any reason, are otherwise forgotten.”
Tickets for all shows go on sale this Friday, May 28th.
