John Prine, who keeps a home in Gulfport, in critical condition with COVID-19 symptoms

The country and Americana legend just played Tampa Bay in December.

click to enlarge John Prine, who keeps a home in Gulfport, in critical condition with COVID-19 symptoms
Photo Jess Phillips

Nashville songwriter John Prine, who keeps a home in Gulfport, is in the hospital and in critical condition with COVID-19 symptoms. His family shared the sad news on social media.

“After a sudden onset of Covid-19 symptoms, John was hospitalized on Thursday (3/26). He was intubated Saturday evening, and continues to receive care, but his situation is critical,” a statement from the Prine family says. “This is hard news for us to share. But so many of you have loved and supported John over the years, we wanted to let you know, and give you the chance to send on more of that love and support now,” the statement continues. “And know that we love you, and John loves you.”

On March 17, Prine’s wife Fiona shared that she had been diagnosed with the coronavirus. In a video, she said that she and John had been tested, with his test coming back “intermediate.”

"There's a chance he may not have this virus, and we are working really, really hard and being really diligent about all of the protocols. We are quarantined and isolated from each other and members of the family," Fiona said. adds. "So far, he's fine." Prine continues. "He's always got a little something going on, but he's 73 years old and he may have some issues, but he may not have this virus and I want to keep it that way."

Prine, who is a 73-year-old cancer survivor, was last in town in December when rising country songwriter Kelsey Waldon opened for him at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater.

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Ray Roa

Read his 2016 intro letter and disclosures from 2022 and 2021. Ray Roa started freelancing for Creative Loafing Tampa in January 2011 and was hired as music editor in August 2016. He became Editor-In-Chief in August 2019. Past work can be seen at Suburban Apologist, Tampa Bay Times, Consequence of Sound and The...
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