About the song
John Prine, a beloved folk singer and songwriter, penned “Illegal Smile” as a humorous and uplifting celebration of life’s simple pleasures. This catchy tune, released in 1971, became a popular addition to Prine’s live performances and a beloved song among his dedicated fanbase.
With his distinctive voice and witty lyrics, Prine explores the themes of joy, contentment, and the importance of finding happiness in everyday life. Through humorous anecdotes and relatable imagery, listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and find inspiration in the simple pleasures of life.
The opening lines, “I got a smile that won’t go away, it’s an illegal smile,” set the stage for a song that celebrates the joy of living. Prine describes the feeling of contentment and happiness that comes from appreciating the small things in life. The song’s refrain, “It’s an illegal smile, but I just can’t hide it,” conveys a sense of defiance and a refusal to let anyone dampen his joy.
Throughout the song, Prine uses vivid imagery and relatable anecdotes to illustrate his appreciation for life. He references the “sunshine on my face” and the “birds that sing,” highlighting the simple pleasures that bring him joy. The lyrics evoke a sense of optimism and gratitude, while also encouraging listeners to find happiness in their own lives.
“Illegal Smile” is more than just a humorous song; it is a celebration of the human spirit and the enduring power of joy. Prine’s witty lyrics and infectious melody resonate with listeners of all ages, reminding us of the importance of finding happiness in the simple things in life. This timeless classic continues to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide, serving as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for joy and laughter.
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Lyrics
When I woke up this morning, things were lookin’ bad
Seem like total silence was the only friend I had
Bowl of oatmeal tried to stare me down, and won
And it was twelve o’clock before I realized
I was havin’ no fun
Ah, but fortunately I have the key to escape reality
And you may see me tonight with an illegal smile
It don’t cost very much, but it lasts a long while
Won’t you please tell the man I didn’t kill anyone
No, I’m just tryin’ to have me some fun
Last time I checked my bankroll
It was gettin’ thin
Sometimes it seems like the bottom
Is the only place I’ve been
I chased a rainbow down a one-way street dead end
And all my friends turned out to be insurance salesmen
Ah, but fortunately I have the key to escape reality
And you may see me tonight with an illegal smile
It don’t cost very much, but it lasts a long while
Won’t you please tell the man I didn’t kill anyone
No, I’m just tryin’ to have me some fun
Well, I sat down in my closet with all my overalls
Tryin’ to get away from all the ears inside my walls
I dreamed the police heard everything I thought, what then?
Well I went to court and the judge’s name was Hoffman
Ah, but fortunately I have the key to escape reality
And you may see me tonight with an illegal smile
It don’t cost very much, but it lasts a long while
Won’t you please tell the man I didn’t kill anyone
No, I’m just tryin’ to have me some fun
Well done, hot dog bun, my sister’s a nun