About the song
“‘In Spite of Ourselves’ is a heartwarming and endearing track by the legendary singer-songwriter John Prine, showcasing his remarkable ability to blend humor, romance, and keen observational insights. Released in 1999, this song is the title track of Prine’s album In Spite of Ourselves, which is widely regarded as one of his most charming and emotionally resonant works.
The song was co-written by John Prine and the talented songwriter and musician, Iris DeMent. DeMent, known for her distinctive voice and evocative songwriting, brings her unique touch to the duet, which adds a special layer of authenticity and charm to the track. The collaboration between Prine and DeMent results in a duet that feels both intimate and relatable, capturing the essence of a long-term relationship with its trials and triumphs.
‘In Spite of Ourselves’ reached number 11 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, marking a significant success for Prine during the late 1990s. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat melody reflect Prine’s characteristic wit and his ability to find beauty and humor in everyday life. The album itself, In Spite of Ourselves, reached number 22 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, demonstrating Prine’s continued relevance and appeal within the country and folk music scenes.
The song’s celebration of love, despite its imperfections, resonates deeply with listeners, highlighting Prine’s skill in capturing the nuances of human relationships. ‘In Spite of Ourselves’ remains a beloved piece in Prine’s extensive catalog, admired for its heartfelt storytelling and the delightful chemistry between Prine and DeMent. It stands as a testament to Prine’s enduring artistry and his remarkable ability to connect with audiences through both humor and sincerity.”
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Lyrics
She don’t like her eggs all runny
She thinks crossin’ her legs is funny
She looks down her nose at money
She gets it on like the Easter Bunny
She’s my baby, I’m her honey
I’m never gonna let her go
He ain’t got laid in a month of Sundays
I caught him once and he was sniffin’ my undies
He ain’t too sharp but he gets things done
Drinks his beer like it’s oxygen
He’s my baby, and I’m his honey
Never gonna let him go
In spite of ourselves
We’ll end up a-sittin’ on a rainbow
Against all odds
Honey, we’re the big door prize
We’re gonna spite
Our noses right off of our faces
There won’t be nothin’ but big old hearts
Dancin’ in our eyes
She thinks all my jokes are corny
Convict movies make her horny
She likes ketchup on her scrambled eggs
Swears like a sailor when she shaves her legs
She takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’
I’m never gonna let her go
He’s got more balls than a big brass monkey
He’s a wacked out werido and a lovebug junkie
Sly as a fox and crazy as a loon
Payday comes and he’s howlin’ at the moon
He’s my baby, I don’t mean maybe
Never gonna let him go
In spite of ourselves
We’ll end up a-sittin’ on a rainbow
Against all odds
Honey, we’re the big door prize
We’re gonna spite
Our noses right off of our faces
There won’t be nothin’ but big old hearts
Dancin’ in our eyes
In spite of ourselves
We’ll end up a-sittin’ on a rainbow
Against all odds
Honey, we’re the big door prize
We’re gonna spite
Our noses right off of our faces
There won’t be nothin’ but big old hearts
Dancin’ in our eyes
There won’t be nothin’ but big old hearts
Dancin’ in our eyes
In spite of ourselves