Unveiling the Inspiring Journey Behind Kris Kristofferson‘s Enigmatic Masterpiece “Why Me”
Throughout his early career, Kris Kristofferson openly questioned his own singing abilities, describing his voice as “sounding like a damned frog.” However, his talent as a gifted country songwriter was undeniable, with his compositions including timeless classics like “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends,” “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down,” “I’d Rather Be Sorry,” and “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again).”
Renowned for his candid approach to topics considered taboo in country music, such as sexuality in “For the Good Times” and “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” Kristofferson is often hailed as the original “outlaw” of the genre. Yet, it may come as a surprise that his creation “Why Me” (also known as “Why Me, Lord”) delves into a humble and introspective exploration of gospel themes.
The genesis of the song occurred during Kristofferson’s visit to Evangel Temple, a Nashville church frequented by many country music luminaries. The church was led by Pastor Jimmy Rodgers Snow, son of legendary singer Hank Snow. Despite not being a regular churchgoer, Kris joined Connie Smith at the service, where Larry Gatlin, one of the scheduled performers, moved him deeply with his rendition of a new composition called “Help Me.” By the end of the service, Kristofferson found himself unexpectedly kneeling at the altar during Pastor Snow’s invitation.
Inspired by this profound experience, Kris began crafting “Why Me” that very night. The song was recorded on July 8, 1972, at Monument Records studios, with Larry Gatlin and Rita Coolidge providing background vocals. Coincidentally, Kristofferson married Rita Coolidge on August 19, 1973, just a year after the recording. However, their union lasted a little over six years.
Released as part of Kris’s album “Jesus Was a Capricorn,” “Why Me” soared to the number one position on Billboard’s Hot Country Singles chart on July 7, 1973, almost exactly a year after its recording. The B-side of the single featured Kristofferson’s rendition of the song that had initially inspired him, Larry Gatlin’s “Help Me.”
Notably, “Why Me” enjoyed a unique journey on the Billboard pop listing. Reaching a peak position of #16, it boasted an impressive 19-week run in the Top 40, marked by six chart reversals—the most during that time period on the Billboard Hot 100. The song remained on the Hot 100 for an astonishing consecutive 38 weeks, nearly matching the record set by Johnny Mathis’ “Wonderful! Wonderful!” with 39 weeks.
Over the years, “Why Me” became a beloved composition covered by numerous country artists, including Connie Smith, George Jones, David Allan Coe, Melba Montgomery, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and Conway Twitty. Its enduring appeal and universal themes continue to captivate audiences to this day.
- Single by Kris Kristofferson
- Album- Jesus Was a Capricorn
- B-side- “Help Me”
- Released- April 1973
- Recorded- July 8, 1972
- Genre- Country gospel
- Length- 3:26
- Label- Monument Records 31909
- Songwriter- Kris Kristofferson
- Producer- Fred Foster
Lyrics
Why me Lord, what have I ever done
To deserve even one
Of the pleasures I’ve known
Tell me Lord, what did I ever do
That was worth loving You
Or the kindness You’ve shown
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So Help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Tell me Lord, if you think there’s a way
I can try to repay
All I’ve taken from You
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else
What I’ve been through myself
On my way back to You
Lord, help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So Help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Lord, help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So Help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
