There was a bit of a well-deserved controversy when the CMA Awards broadcast didn't even mention the passing of legend John Prine this year from COVID-19. One of Prine's close friends singer Sturgill Simpson posted several scathing messages and videos on his Instagram account. The team of Jason Isbell and Amanda Shire posted on Twitter pictures of their Country Music Association lifetime membership cards that they were returning, referencing not only Prine, but the passing of greats Jerry Jeff Walker and Billy Joe Shaver not getting mentioned either. "I doubt anybody will care," Isbell wrote, "but we cared a lot about our heroes,” And comments on social media expanded on the general disdain.
That was Thursday night. Needless-to-say, not having the gift of foresight, I was unware of what was to come when, earlier that morning -- having the gift of an odd love for watching golf-- I had put on the Masters golf tournament was beginning this year's coverage on ESPN. And to my dearly-happy surprise, the way the Masters opened their broadcast was with a lovely video about past champions of the tournament and its history, all played to the music of -- John Prine, the last song he recorded, the gorgeous, "I Remember Everything." This was on ESPN. Since CBS begins its coverage of the final two rounds on Saturday, I wonder if they'll open with the video, as well. On general principle, but also since it's now gotten so much attention. The two occasions combined just brought out more scorn at the CMA, how they could manage to even mention John Prine who had major impact on the industry, and the Masters golf tournament could devote such thoughtfulness to Prine's song. I had thought about mentioning Prine's song and the video here after I'd seen it, but couldn't find a copy of it. However, thankfully, it showed up on some Twitter feeds. Remarkably, especially at the beginning of the song, the words almost sound like they were written specifically for the Masters. But, of course, they were written for...well, everything. Here 'tis. Even if the CMA blew it, the Masters got it right. So did John Prine. Pretty much always.
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AuthorRobert J. Elisberg is a political commentator, screenwriter, novelist, tech writer and also some other things that I just tend to keep forgetting. Feedspot Badge of Honor
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