A Love Song That Laughs at Itself, Where “In Spite of Ourselves” Becomes a Joyful Meeting of Generations
During the Cayamo Cruise in January 2015, John Prine joined forces with Brandi Carlile to perform his beloved duet “In Spite of Ourselves,” turning a playful, offbeat love song into a moment of warmth, humor, and quiet celebration. Originally released in 1999 on Prine’s album “In Spite of Ourselves,” the song had already become one of his most cherished compositions, known for its honest, unpolished view of love.
From the very beginning, John Prine sets the tone with a lighthearted remark, calling the song “really sad” with a smile that signals the opposite. That gentle humor runs through the entire performance. It is not a song that takes itself too seriously, yet beneath its wit lies something deeply sincere.
Brandi Carlile steps into the duet with ease, her voice blending naturally with Prine’s. Where Prine brings his signature conversational delivery, slightly worn but full of character, Carlile adds clarity and lift. The contrast works beautifully. It is not about perfection. It is about connection.
Written in Prine’s unmistakable style, “In Spite of Ourselves” celebrates love in its most human form. The lyrics wander through quirks, habits, and imperfections, painting a relationship that feels real rather than ideal. There is affection in every line, but it is an affection that accepts flaws instead of ignoring them.
On stage in 2015, that spirit feels alive and immediate. The two singers exchange lines with a sense of ease, almost as if sharing a private joke. The band remains understated, allowing the focus to stay on the interplay between voices.
What makes this performance especially meaningful is the sense of continuity it represents. John Prine, a master songwriter whose influence stretches across generations, stands alongside Brandi Carlile, an artist who has carried that tradition forward. Together, they do not reinterpret the song. They reaffirm it.
The audience responds with laughter, applause, and recognition. Not just for the song, but for the feeling it creates.
Looking back, this rendition of “In Spite of Ourselves” is more than a duet. It is a reminder that love, in all its imperfection, can still be joyful. And sometimes, the most honest songs are the ones that know how to smile at themselves.