Yesterday, Governor JB Pritzker announced that John Prine will be named an Honorary Poet Laureate, making him the first in Illinois’ history.
It’s also my honor to name our state’s first honorary poet laureate. John Prine leaves behind an unparalleled musical legacy and was beloved by family and millions of fans who hope that in Heaven he finds Paradise waitin’ just as he longed for. pic.twitter.com/5RSoDCrgrZ
– Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) June 30, 2020
John Prine was born in Maywood, IL. and lived and worked in the Chicago area early in his career before moving south to Nashville in the early 80’s.
Prine’s widow Fiona Whelan Prine said, “I have no doubt that John would be proud and delighted to receive this recognition from his home state of Illinois. John had great respect for writers of all kinds. He regarded poets as being among those whose work carried weight, relevance and elevated craft. It is such an honor for me, our sons and the entire Prine family to acknowledge that our beloved John will be named an Honorary Poet Laureate of the State of Illinois. Thank you, Governor Pritzker, for this wonderful recognition.”
Photo Credit: PR Photos