The Relationship Between John Prine and Sturgill Simpson and the Ultra-Expensive Gift It Entailed

John Prine and Sturgill Simpson reside within the same world of documenting America’s underbelly and forgotten locations in peculiar lyrical and musical vehicles. They are two of the best Americana country musicians of all time. Hence, their relationship ran nearly deeper than the roots they sang about. As a matter of fact, so much so, that when Prine passed he left Sturgill Simpson his 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo.

Head-scratching, yes, as neither individual would seem to want or own a car of this luxury. Nonetheless, the sportscar was a token of Prine’s gratitude and for Simpson, seemingly a symbol that meant he needed to carry on his legacy. Despite this pricey token of admiration, Prine and Simpson’s friendship would have been just as monumental even if this gift wasn’t given. In short, the two resided in a musical world not many get to, and they realized the importance of such a vocation.

John Prine’s Mentorship

Being a Kentucky native, Sturgill Simpson cherishes all things having to do with the state. That being so, when Prine died in 2020, Simpson did a cover of his Kentucy-themed song “Paradise.” Although, Simpson’s admiration for Prine came far before his demise.

Simpson first met Prine at the recording of his Cuttin Grass album in Nashville. Simpson recalled first meeting Prine, stating on the Stephen Colbert Show, “I hit vapor lock. I kind of freaked out — you’re face-to-face with your hero.” It was from this first interaction that Simpson and Prine hit it off. Thanks to their friendship, Simpson described Prine as “a mentor and very giving with his time.”

Sturgill Simpson & Prine’s Porsche 911

Needless to say, Prine wasn’t just generous with his time, as the car he left Simpson was “a bucket list dream car,” according to the man himself. Though, above all, no gift could replace or make up for Prine’s massive absence. Simpson opened up about the loss of his friend, sharing, “It’s tough. I feel like I’ve lost my grandfather five times” and “Especially when you don’t really get to say all the things you wish you had,” per WBUR.

“Now I just wish I had one good opportunity to embarrass myself,” Simpson added. Simpson remembers when Prine first went to the hospital and the fear that followed. He vulnerably divulged, “I was just sort of standing outside and just kind of accepted the fact that I probably was never going to see him again.” Sadly, Simpson’s gut feeling was correct. Regardless, both Prine’s music and the Porsche give Simpson a constant reminder of his everlasting influence on the world and Simpson’s career.

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