Kris Kristofferson‘s remarkable talent for songwriting truly shines through on his album, Closer To The Bone, which was released over a decade ago. The album holds a collection of quiet and deeply emotional songs, offering a rare glimpse into the profound goodness that resides within Kristofferson’s soul. Among the tracks, there is one that stands out— “Good Morning John,” a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend, the late Johnny Cash.
The origins of this remarkable song trace back to the 1970s when Kristofferson attempted to write a letter to Cash, hoping to provide support for his battle against substance abuse. However, instead of a letter, the words took shape as a beautiful and poignant melody. Surprisingly, Kristofferson held onto this gem, not sharing it with the world until 2009, five years after Cash, his fellow “Highwayman,” passed away.
In an interview with Billboard, Kris Kristofferson reminisced about the creation of “Good Morning John.” He revealed that the inspiration for the song arose from a moment when everyone was expected to offer something uplifting. Driven by his innate songwriting instincts, Kristofferson decided to put his thoughts into musical form. He recalled a previous attempt at recording the song with Willie Nelson and his band, where they playfully echoed his lines during the chorus. Laughter filled the room as they joyously improvised. Unfortunately, the recording remained incomplete, prompting Kristofferson to finish it on his own.
The heartfelt words that Kris Kristofferson penned for Johnny Cash eloquently capture his immense happiness at witnessing Cash taking control of his life. The final verse of this timeless Kristofferson classic encapsulates the essence of their relationship:
“Good morning, John, ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter than the naked light of day? You made it, John. But I confess there was a time we two have thought that you might let it slip away.
I love you, John. In the cold and holy darkness, you were always shining brighter than a star.
God bless you, John, for the love and joy you’ve given, as the living inspiration that you are.”
These poignant words serve as a testament to the enduring bond between Kris Kristofferson and Johnny Cash, and the profound impact Cash had on Kristofferson’s life. Through his heartfelt tribute, Kristofferson immortalizes the unwavering love and admiration he feels for his late friend, forever cherishing the moments they shared and the strength Cash displayed in overcoming his struggles. “Good Morning John” stands as a powerful ode to resilience, friendship, and the enduring spirit of an iconic musician.
Artist: Kris Kristofferson
Album: Closer to the Bone
Released: 2009
Lyrics
Good Morning, John!
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
in the naked light of day?
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
than the naked light of day?
You maid it, son!
But I confess there was a time or two I thought that
you might let it slip away.
I love you, John!
In the cold and holy darkness you were always shining brighter than a star.
God bless you, John!
For the love and joy you’ve given and the living inspiration that you are.
You’ve scared me, John!
‘Cause you crossed so many borders into danger with a price upon your head.
They got you, John!
And it hurts to see so many friends, who ran along beside you lying dead.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle out there ain’t
nothing bigger than your heart.
Keep shining, John!
Keep smiling, John!
For you owe it to the others and the dark and holy wonder that you are.
Hang in there, John!
It’s a rocky role to glory, but the strangest and strongest will survive.
Keep smiling, John!
We’ll both make it there tomorrow but today lets say
we’re lucky we’re alive.
We won’t make it there tomorrow,
but today let’s say we’re lucky we’re alive.
I’ll see you John!
Though the best of good intentions have a way of gettin’
scattered by the wind.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
I’m leavin’ John!
You can lose your mind and mem’ry but you ain’t gonna
lose me as your friend.
I love you, John.
You can lose your mind or memory, but you’ll never lose me as your friend.
Good morning, John!
