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John Prine at the Cascade

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On the short list of incredible songwriters I absolutely must see in my lifetime is John Prine. It appears I’ll get a chance right here in Redding on April 12 at the Cascade Theatre.

Though not yet listed on the Cascade’s website , the show does appear on Prine’s site . During the same mid-April week, Prine is also playing shows in Santa Rosa, Reno, Portland, Seattle and Billingham, Wash.

Known for his literate and humorous tunes, Prine has steadily built a major following in folk/alt country genre since being discovered by Kris Kristofferson in the late 1960s. Some of his most popular songs include, “Angel From Montgomery,” “Illegal Smile”, “Hello in There,” “Paradise” and “Sam Stone.” He’s also done a number of duets with fabulous female performers such as Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, Trisha Yearwood and Iris DeMent.

His fantastic 2005 album “Fair & Square” won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album.

Kristofferson was once quoted as saying Prine’s songs are so good that, “We’ll have to break his thumbs.”

My view is that his work compares seamlessly with the likes of people like Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Kristofferson, John Haitt and Lyle Lovett. His album “The Missing Years” (1991) is a must listen for anyone who’s a fan of this genre.

Tickets were listed at $49.50 on Prine’s site. I’m wondering if there will be less expensive tickets in the balcony for the Monday night concert. In other cities, tickets often range from $50-$75. I’m betting the show will attract fans from all across the region.

He’s a cancer survivor who is going strong at age 63, and I’m thrilled at the possibility of seeing him in Redding.

Jim Dyar

is a journalist who focuses on arts, entertainment, music and the outdoors. He is a songwriter and leader of the Jim Dyar Band. He lives in Redding and can be reached at jimd.anewscafe@gmail.com

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