Bright Eyes are getting in the holiday spirit with a new cover of “Christmas In Prison” featuring a vocal sample of the song’s author, the late John Prine. Out now across streaming platforms, the fundraising cover incorporates Prine’s monologue from “A John Prine Christmas”.
Fans of the late singing mailman know how dearly Prine held Christmas, issuing the 1993 holiday album A John Prine Christmas and including “Christmas In Prison” on his third album, 1973’s Sweet Revenge. While Bright Eyes leader Conor Oberst‘s feelings on the holiday season aren’t particularly famous, the emo-folk singer-songwriter has long professed his admiration for Prine—a feeling John reciprocated during his lifetime.
“It is strange to get a chance to share a track with a hero of mine who has passed on,” Oberst said of the song. “Normally not something I would do. I don’t like holograms. But I have so much love and affection for John as a person and his music. He really changed my life on a lot of levels. When I heard the sample of him talking about Christmas just put such a big smile on my face and I couldn’t help but want to share it with other people. A little Christmas gift to a stranger. It’s all about John and his beautiful song. But I am happy to sing in the choir. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone all around the world. I wish love and light this season to you and yours.”
Bright Eyes’ cover of “Christmas In Prison” will raise money for The Hello In There Foundation, which Prine’s family started following his death in 2020. Those funds will go toward the foundation’s four major 2023 grantees: Renewal House, Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition, Porter’s Call, and the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans. Fans can also purchase a special John Prine and Conor Oberst Christmas ornament, with proceeds going toward the grantees.
Listen to Bright Eyes’ cover of “Christmas In Prison” by John Prine below or on your preferred streaming platform.
Bright Eyes – “Christmas In Prison (feat. John Prine)”