Two kinds of people in the world. Those who love John Prine - and those who have never heard of him.
John Prine was a wry and perceptive writer whose evocative songs often resembled vivid short stories with pointed commentary cloaked within whimsical wordplay. He presented his songs with a conversational vocal approach, and developed a reputation as a performer who empathized with his characters - bestowing dignity on the overlooked and marginalized. He became known for detailed vignettes about ordinary people that illustrated larger truths about society.
Early in the pandemic, COVID-19 'crossed that evil line today' and took John Prine from all of us.
On Saturday, August 5 - we've picked out a bunch of John's sweetest peaches and tracked down a few performers to present them - each in their own special way.
"...stop wishin' for bad luck and knockin' on wood..."
"If God's got a favourite songwriter, I think it's John Prine." - Kris Kristofferson
Mark Despault began performing and writing music in the 70’s, being highly influenced by the folk music of the 60’s and the rock and roll explosion of the late sixties. He went on to record and play with many bands including the heritage group, the Wakami Wailers, the humorous duo The Frere Brothers, and the alt-country folk group, Luck’s X-RD. He will be joined on guitar by Prince Edward County's own Caleb Hutton.
"What can I say about John Prine? A major influence on my songwriting since I discovered his first album in 1973. Had the amazing opportunity to meet and chat with him in 1973 at the Ottawa Folk Club “Le Hibou”. Been a huge fan ever since."
Instant Rivalry is Megan and Caleb Hutton. An award winning brother-sister duo from Prince Edward County, Ontario, founded on the roots of country, rock and family ties. Their fiery stage presence, sound and song writing give them a unique edge and authenticity that is sure to move you physically or emotionally. Their dynamic is diverse, but strong.
Instant Rivalry are the winners of the Next Country Music Star Competition, Ontario Backroads Country Talent Search and were selected by the Country Music Association of Ontario as New Faces Going Places. They have shared the stage with acts like Tanya Tucker, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Lindi Ortega and Corb Lund. Their debut album Whiskey and Lead can be heard anywhere you stream music.
“Prine has been one of the most influential songwriters on our career. His blend of humour, sincerity, talent and story telling is unparalleled. We often reference his work when striving to create music that offers humour, heartbreak and happiness that can touch others the way his music has touched us.”
Rick Zimmerman is a familiar face on stages in the Quinte region. He regularly hosts music, theatre and fundraising events, and has played alongside many of your favourite County artists. He first heard a John Prine song in a college dorm (yes - he went to college...for awhile), back in 1975 or 76...he admits that he's a little foggy on dates, and events, from back in the 70s. Rick also hosts a weekly evening of music at the Old Church Theatre, north of Trenton, where you might find him playing one of his distinctive original tunes, or of course, some of his fave John Prine.
"This is an amazing opportunity to be with some good friends, playing songs I first heard from Mr Prine over four decades ago. I have two very early JP albums, framed on the wall at home....he watches me practice."
Randy Stewart has been hosting musical events throughout the region for several years now. He delights in introducing audiences to the amazing array of local talent this area offers - at venues like Shelter Valley Concert Series and Stone Hall Sessions. He will be Master of Ceremonies for this show as well.
Mr. Stewart is a Canadian singer/songwriter who has been performing professionally for more than 30 years. He has been seen on television, heard on radio and recorded by the CBC. His recordings can be found in the delete bins of some of the country’s finest record stores. Originally from Northwestern Ontario, he now lives in Belleville, Ontario. His set list leans heavily on his distinctive original songs - including topical numbers like Buck-A-Beer and C.O.V.I.D. Nineteen - sprinkled with an unexpected mix of country, folk, jazz standards and pop – all reworked into his own unique style.
He has been crusading for years to purge love songs from his performances. His mantra – Sad Songs & Funny Songs ‘I DON’T PLAY LOVE SONGS’ – has become familiar to music fans throughout the region. The lovelorn, lovesick and skeptical can all take refuge when Mr. Stewart takes the stage to give them something to sing about – that doesn’t wear its heart on its sleeve.
“There are a lot of performers out there singing about love and relationships – I’m just not one of ‘em”.
"John Prine pointed the way for all of us - his influence is huge despite the fact that he was largely ignored by popular radio. He built an enormous fan base one concert, one album and one song at a time - simply because the emotional connection in his songs is so strong."
PLEASE NOTE: Advance Tickets are available online only until midnight Friday, August 4.
Advance Tickets are not available on the day of the show. At-the-door Tickets are $30 (cash only).