In Spite of Ourselves is one of the most beloved songs by , a track that captures his unique storytelling style with humor, warmth, and an unmistakable sense of authenticity. Released in 1999 as the title track of his album of the same name, the song quickly became a favorite among fans of folk, country, and Americana music. Its playful lyrics and duet format make it a charming listen, while the characters in the song feel real and relatable. Many listeners find themselves smiling at the witty lines and the tender depiction of love that is honest, slightly awkward, and yet endearing.
About John Prine and His Musical Style
John Prine was known for his ability to tell stories through music, blending humor, social commentary, and heartfelt emotion. His songs often explore ordinary life with a poetic lens, and In Spite of Ourselves is a perfect example of this. The song features a duet between a man and a woman, describing a relationship full of quirks and imperfections, yet rooted in deep affection. Prine’s folk-influenced style, combined with his storytelling, makes his music timeless and accessible to a wide audience.
The Story Behind the Song
In Spite of Ourselves humorously portrays a couple who are not perfect for each other on the surface but are deeply connected. The lyrics describe each person’s flaws and odd habits, but also highlight the love that persists despite these imperfections. Lines like I’ll see your Howard Johnson’s, and raise you a Holiday Inn showcase Prine’s witty and relatable writing. This approach makes the song feel personal and universal at the same time, allowing listeners to see their own relationships reflected in the humor and honesty of the lyrics.
How to Play In Spite of Ourselves on Guitar
For those who want to perform the song themselves, it’s surprisingly accessible for beginner and intermediate guitar players. The song is usually played in standard tuning, with a few basic chords that repeat throughout most of the song. Its simple structure makes it a favorite for sing-alongs and casual performances.
Basic Chords for the Song
Here are the primary chords used to play In Spite of Ourselves
- G Major
- C Major
- D Major
- Em (E minor)
These chords are arranged in a repeating pattern that supports the playful and narrative style of the song. Even beginners can pick up the rhythm and chord changes with a little practice. Strumming in a relaxed, country-folk style complements Prine’s vocal delivery perfectly.
Strumming Pattern
A common strumming pattern for the song is down-down-up-up-down-up, which gives it a bouncy, conversational feel. The rhythm mirrors the storytelling nature of the lyrics, allowing performers to emphasize certain words or humorous lines. Playing with a gentle, steady tempo keeps the focus on the lyrics and the interaction between the vocal parts.
Tips for Singing the Duet
Since In Spite of Ourselves is a duet, performing it with a partner can enhance the humor and charm of the song. The male and female parts play off each other, creating a conversational dynamic that makes the story come alive. Practicing together helps in timing the responses and delivering the comedic pauses effectively.
- Alternate lines to maintain a natural flow.
- Emphasize the humorous descriptions of each other’s quirks.
- Keep the tone light and playful; the song’s charm comes from its honesty and humor.
Why the Song Remains Popular
Despite being released over two decades ago, In Spite of Ourselves remains a staple in John Prine’s catalog and in the broader folk and country community. Its universal theme of imperfect love resonates with listeners of all ages. The song has been covered by many artists, and it frequently appears in live performances and community sing-alongs. Its accessibility, memorable lyrics, and lighthearted storytelling ensure that it continues to be cherished by new generations of fans.
Impact on Folk and Country Music
The song illustrates Prine’s influence on modern folk and country music. By combining humor, realism, and simple melodies, he created a template for storytelling songs that are both entertaining and emotionally resonant. In Spite of Ourselves is often cited as a classic example of how music can explore everyday relationships without feeling contrived or overly sentimental.
Playing Tips for Beginners
For those just starting to play the song, here are a few practical tips
- Start slowly, focusing on smooth chord transitions.
- Listen to John Prine’s original recording to get a feel for timing and phrasing.
- Practice singing along to internalize the humor and rhythm of the lyrics.
- Don’t worry about perfection; the charm of the song comes from its casual, conversational style.
Adding Personal Style
One of the joys of performing In Spite of Ourselves is the freedom to add personal touches. Players can vary the strumming pattern, add gentle embellishments, or slightly adjust the tempo to fit their voice and style. Keeping the performance relaxed and playful helps retain the original spirit of John Prine’s music while allowing each performer to make it their own.
Playing In Spite of Ourselves by John Prine is both rewarding and fun. The song’s simple chord structure, engaging lyrics, and duet format make it accessible for beginners while offering depth and charm for more experienced musicians. Beyond the technical aspects, the song invites performers and listeners alike to celebrate imperfect love, humor in everyday life, and the warmth of human connection. Its enduring popularity is a testament to John Prine’s skill as a songwriter and storyteller, and learning to play this song allows fans to connect with his music in a personal and memorable way.