Kris Kristofferson is a highly esteemed songwriter with a vast and cherished catalog of songs. His compositions have been recorded numerous times, often resulting in multiple hits. In the 1970s, having a song written by Kristofferson was considered a coveted prize for artists aspiring to make it big in Nashville. Today, his songwriting has cemented his status as a legend and an inspiration for aspiring musicians.
In a previous article, we explored some songs written by Kristofferson for other artists. However, his catalog is so extensive that we couldn’t resist coming back for more. Let’s delve into four additional songs that you probably didn’t realize were penned by Kris Kristofferson.
“For the Good Times” (Ray Price)
Written by Kris Kristofferson
In 1968, Kris Kristofferson wrote “For the Good Times” shortly after experiencing a painful breakup. Before Ray Price’s rendition became a chart-topping success, the song was recorded by Bill Nash and Kristofferson himself. Reflecting on the song’s popularity, Kristofferson humbly stated, “I felt more like he had made it a hit than the song had.” Ray Price was highly respected among serious musicians and songwriters in the industry. The heartfelt lyrics depict Kristofferson pleading with his former partner to cherish the precious memories they shared, as he sings, “Let’s just be glad we have this time to spend together. There is no need to watch the bridges that we’re burning.”
Price’s version reached number one on the charts in the summer of 1970, and later, Al Green delivered a stunning rendition of the track for his album, “I’m Still in Love with You.”
“Stranger” (Billy Swan)
Written by Kris Kristofferson
Since Kris Kristofferson penned “Stranger” in the mid-1970s, it has been recorded by several artists. Billy Swan was the first to lay his hands on it, followed by Kristofferson himself, Johnny Duncan, and numerous other country stars. The song encapsulates Kristofferson’s signature style, featuring a simple guitar line and narrative lyrics. The chorus poignantly conveys the emotions, “And she said, ‘Stranger, shut out the light and lead me somewhere. Shut out the shadows, too. And while we lay there, making believe you love me, stranger, could I believe in you?'”
“To Beat the Devil” (Johnny Cash)
Written by Kris Kristofferson
In 1969, Kris Kristofferson gifted “To Beat the Devil” to his fellow Highwayman, Johnny Cash. True to form, Kristofferson promptly recorded his own version of the song. Waylon Jennings also followed suit with his rendition. The fact that Cash recorded the song is fitting, as he inspired the lyrics. In Kristofferson’s version, he recounts a poignant encounter with a close friend who was on the brink of death. The experience sparked the creation of the song. Kristofferson shared, “A couple of years back, I come across a great and wasted friend of mine in the hallway of a recording studio. And while he was reciting some poetry to me that he had written, I saw that he was about a step away from dying, and I couldn’t help but wonder why.” He dedicated the song to John and June, acknowledging their influence in helping him overcome personal demons.
“The Loving Gift” (Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash)
Written by Kris Kristofferson
In 1972, Cash recorded another Kris Kristofferson gem, “The Loving Gift,” as a duet with June Carter Cash. The song appeared on the album “Any Old Wind That Blows” and reached the top 30 on the Billboard Country Chart. The lyrics beautifully express love and devotion to a partner, making it a perfect choice for Johnny and June to sing together. The opening line sets the tone for the heartfelt tribute, “You gave me a blanket to keep me from the cold. You gave me a song I learned to sing. You showed me some beauty through the windows of your soul, and you showed me a world I’ve never seen.”
Kris Kristofferson’s talent for crafting deeply personal and resonant songs shines through in these four tracks. His contributions to the music industry continue to inspire both aspiring and established artists alike.
