John Prine was a folk and country singer from Illinois, known for turning simple stories into powerful songs. He began in the 1970s and quickly became loved for his thoughtful lyrics.
He wrote unforgettable songs like Angel from Montgomery, Hello in There, and Sam Stone. His words blended truth, humor, and heart.
He won multiple Grammys and earned lifetime honors, including a spot in the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Even after his passing in 2020, his voice remains strong through his music. New singers often thank him for showing that small moments, written honestly, can truly move people.
About the Song
John Prine’s Please Don’t Bury Me is a fun, upbeat song about death. Instead of being sad, it’s full of jokes and charm.
The singer imagines giving away his body parts to others, turning a serious subject into something warm and funny, just like Prine often did in his music.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | October 1, 1973 |
| Album | Great Days: The John Prine Anthology (1993) |
| Writer | John Prine |
| Producer | Arif Mardin |
Read the Lyrics of Please Don’t Bury Me
Verse 1
Woke up this morning, put on my slippers
Walked in the kitchen and died
And oh, what a feeling when my soul went through the ceiling
And on up into heaven I did ride
Verse 2
When I got there they did say, “John, it happened this a-way
You slipped upon the floor and hit your head
And all the angels say just before you passed away
These were the very last words that you said”
Chorus
Please don’t bury me down in the cold cold ground
No, I’d druther have ’em cut me up and pass me all around
Throw my brain in a hurricane and the blind can have my eyes
And the deaf can take both of my ears, if they don’t mind the size
Verse 3
Give my stomach to Milwaukee if they run out of beer
Put my socks in a cedar box, just get ’em out of here
Venus de Milo can have my arms, look out, I’ve got your nose
Sell my heart to the junkman and give my love to Rose
Chorus
But please don’t bury me down in that cold cold ground
No, I’d druther have ’em cut me up and pass me all around
Throw my brain in a hurricane and the blind can have my eyes
And the deaf can take both of my ears, if they don’t mind the size
Guitar and Dobro Solos
Verse 4
Give my feet to the footloose, careless, fancy free
Give my knees to the needy, don’t pull that stuff on me
Hand me down my walking cane, it’s a sin to tell a lie
Send my mouth way down south and kiss my ass goodbye
Chorus
But please don’t bury me down in that cold cold ground
No, I’d druther have ’em cut me up and pass me all around
Throw my brain in a hurricane and the blind can have my eyes
And the deaf can take both of my ears, if they don’t mind the size
Similar Songs Like Please Don’t Bury Me
Ever wish songs felt like postcards from another time? These John Prine tracks each tell their own story, wrapped in warm, easy melodies:
- Illegal Smile: A cheeky grin in song form. This tune celebrates life’s small joys and hidden pleasures, with playful lyrics that leave you humming and smiling.
- Dear Abby: Advice column meets folk song. Each verse is a funny letter, answered with wit and warmth, making everyday troubles feel lighter and less serious.
- Spanish Pipedream: Rollicking road trip anthem. It’s about ditching worries, living simply, and building a dream, complete with chickens and a dash of rebellious fun.
- Fish and Whistle: Everyday moments become something special here. The melody bounces along, turning chores and simple prayers into a catchy, toe-tapping story about hope.
Similar Artists Like John Prine
For listeners who enjoy lyrics that speak softly but stay with you, these artists carry the same mix of heart, wit, and everyday truth:
- Guy Clark
Genre: Folk, Country
Top Albums: Old No. 1 (1975), Dublin Blues (1995) - Townes Van Zandt
Genre: Folk, Americana
Top Albums: Townes Van Zandt (1969), High, Low and In Between (1971) - Kris Kristofferson
Genre: Country, Singer-Songwriter
Top Albums: Kristofferson (1970), The Silver Tongued Devil and I (1971) - Steve Goodman
Genre: Folk, Country
Top Albums: Steve Goodman (1971), Somebody Else’s Troubles (1972) - Todd Snider
Genre: Americana, Alt-Country
Top Albums: Songs for the Daily Planet (1994), East Nashville Skyline (2004)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a Live Performance of Please Don’t Bury Me?
Yes, there are several live performances of Please Don’t Bury Me by John Prine. Notably, John Prine performed the song live at Merlefest 2016.
Is it Disrespectful to Sing About Death this Way?
Not at all. It’s more about finding peace through humor. Many people love it because it feels honest, not dark or rude.
Does Please Don’t Bury Me Actually Talk About Body Parts?
Yes! The narrator lists organs he’d like to give away. It’s strange but funny, and somehow, it works without being gross.
