PORTLAND — John Prine, the 64-year-old singer-songwriter, played a sold-out show at Merrill Auditorium Friday, delivering two dozen songs across the spectrum of his career.

With a raspy voice weathered by age, illness and a lifetime of travels, Prine gave fans a taste of his humor and poignancy. Backed by a duo, he played silly songs, love songs and powerful songs that illuminated his life and career.

Highlights included a spunky “That’s the Way the World Goes Round,” a gut-wrenching version of his ode of old folks and loneliness, “Hello in There,” and the rocking tribute to his wife, “She Is My Everything.”

Fans greeted him with a standing ovation and sent him home with a standing-O, as well. He played a marathon show, clocking in at more than two hours and 25 songs.
 


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