In a natural pairing -- Bright Eyes being known for releasing A Christmas Album two decades ago, and John Prine, who released A John Prine Christmas EP in 1993 -- Bright Eyes has shared a new track for the 2023 holiday season, a cover of Prine's "Christmas in Prison." All proceeds from the track will benefit The Hello In There Foundation, established in Prine's name.
Oberst shares his inspiration via a press release:
It is strange to get a chance to share a track with a hero of mine who has passed on. 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 last released Down in the Weeds, Where the World Once Was in 2020 (Dead Oceans).
