10 October 2026 – Jeff Tweedy, Ratboys and Steve Earle Celebrate John Prine's Eightieth Birthday in Chicago

A remarkable collection of independent musicians gathered at Chicago Theatre to celebrate the life and songwriting legacy of John Prine, who would have turned eighty on October 10. The concert brought together artists including Jeff Tweedy, Ratboys, Steve Earle, Margo Price, Josh Ritter, Kathleen Edwards, Valerie June and numerous others. Actor and musician John C. Reilly hosted the evening and also performed, while members of Prine's longtime touring band provided instrumental support.

The event featured interpretations of songs spanning Prine's extensive catalogue in folk and Americana, including "Angel From Montgomery," "Sam Stone," "Hello In There" and "Paradise." Surprise appearances included Nathaniel Rateliff, who performed both individually and alongside Margo Price, and Jeff Tweedy, who delivered a moving version of "Summer's End." The evening concluded with a collective performance of "Paradise."

Prine's influence extends across several generations of independent folk, country and alternative musicians. His ability to combine ordinary human observation with humour and emotional precision remains particularly relevant to contemporary songwriters. The Chicago celebration demonstrated that a great song can survive changing fashions, new technologies and several decades of music-industry reinvention.