Missing Years (album)

Missing Years is the sixth studio album by American singer-songwriter John Prine, released in 1991. It marked a significant commercial comeback for Prine, earning him his first Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album in 1992.

Produced by Tom Petty and featuring several members of The Heartbreakers, including Mike Campbell, Howie Epstein, and Benmont Tench, the album showcases a polished and accessible sound compared to Prine's earlier, more stripped-down work. The production aimed to bring Prine's songwriting to a wider audience.

Notable tracks on Missing Years include "Jesus the Missing Years," a humorous and satirical take on Jesus's undocumented years, and "All the Best," a poignant ballad about relationships and moving on. Other well-received songs include "Way Back Then," "Take a Look at My Heart," and "Everything Is Cool."

The album's title reflects the gap between Prine's previous studio album, German Afternoons (1986), and this release, a period during which he focused on independent record production and touring. Missing Years is considered a critical and commercial success, revitalizing Prine's career and solidifying his status as a major figure in American songwriting. The album's success helped Prine gain new fans while also pleasing long-time followers.