5 Facts About John Prine’s Discovery by Jerry Wexler

Jerry Wexler of Atlantic Records discovered John Prine at a Kris Kristofferson show at the Bitter End. Prine was a mailman who stepped up to play his own songs.

Wexler signed Prine on the spot after hearing him perform. This was one of the best A&R decisions in folk music history.

Prine’s debut album was released in 1971. It included classics like “Angel from Montgomery” and “Sam Stone.”

Wexler was known for signing artists based on live performances. He trusted his instincts over demos or industry buzz.

Prine’s mailman background made his discovery even more remarkable. He was an unknown working-class songwriter who became a folk legend.