Kris Kristofferson is one of the most underrated country singer-songwriters of all time. Though he’s never had a number one hit on the charts, his songs have been recorded by some of the biggest names in music, including Johnny Cash, Ray Charles, and Willie Nelson. In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 of his best songs throughout his career. Here we go!
By the way, if you’re looking for more songs by kris kristofferson, you might find some good songs in our other articles, such as joan jett songs, songs about tennessee, songs about tequila, and songs about thunder and lightning.
When I Loved Her – Kris Kristofferson
When I Loved Her - Kris Kristofferson
“When I Loved Her” is a song written and recorded by Kris Kristofferson. The song was included on his debut album, Kris Kristofferson, released in 1970. “When I Loved Her” was the first single released from the album, and reached number 27 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its lyrics are about a man reflect on a past relationship.
From Here to Forever – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson From here to forever (2009)
Kris Kristofferson is one of those rare artists whose work spans several different genres. He’s a country singer-songwriter, but his songs touch on everything from folk to rock to gospel. His lyrics are always poetic and thought-provoking, and he has a unique voice that’s both soulful and powerful. Its lyrics are about things that matter, from the struggles of everyday life to the search for meaning and purpose.
For The Good Times – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - For the good times (1970)
“For The Good Times” is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most popular songs, and for good reason. Written in 1970, the song reflects on the good times that the singer has experienced in his life – and how they’re now gone. But even though the good times are behind him, the singer still remembers them fondly.
The song is written in a beautiful ballad style, and it’s easy to see why it became a hit. It’s a song about nostalgia and reflection, and it’s one of Kristofferson’s most memorable tracks.
The Promise – Kris Kristofferson
The Promise
There’s no denying that The Promise is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most iconic and beloved songs. Written in the early 1970s, the song has been covered by a variety of artists over the years, but Kristofferson’s original version is still the best. With its haunting lyrics and beautiful melody, The Promise is a true masterpiece. Its lyrics are about the struggles of life and the hope for a better future, and they are sure to touch your heart.
Somebody Nobody Knows – Kris Kristofferson
Somebody Nobody Knows - Kris Kristofferson || Full Song with Lyrics
Kris Kristofferson is a country singer-songwriter who has written some amazing songs over the years. His song “Somebody Nobody Knows” is one that has always resonated with me. The lyrics are so beautiful and the song is so sad, but it’s also uplifting in a way. Kristofferson sings about a person who is searching for meaning in life and who feels like they don’t quite fit in anywhere. They feel like they’re nobody, but they know that there must be somebody somewhere who knows them and understands them. This song is such a beautiful reminder that we’re all connected in some way and that somebody out there cares about us.
The Heart – Kris Kristofferson
The Heart
Kris Kristofferson is a country singer-songwriter who has written some of the most timeless songs in history. One of his most beautiful ballads is “The Heart”. The lyrics are simple, yet so poignant and touching. The song is about a man who is losing his love, and he knows it. He pleads with her to stay, telling her that he needs her and that she’s the only one who can make him feel whole. It’s a heartbreaking song, but it’s also incredibly beautiful and uplifting.
Darby’s Castle – Kris Kristofferson
Darby's Castle
When Kris Kristofferson wrote “Darby’s Castle” in 1971, he was already an accomplished musician with a handful of successful albums to his name. But this song would be his biggest hit yet, reaching number one on the country music charts and earning him a Grammy nomination.
The song tells the story of a young man who falls in love with a girl from a wealthy family. He’s determined to win her over, even if it means giving up everything he has. And in the end, he gets the girl and lives happily ever after in Darby’s Castle.
Here comes that rainbow again – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - Here comes that rainbow again (1982)
Kris Kristofferson is one of those rare artists who can write a song that is both beautiful and heartbreaking all at the same time. That is certainly the case with his song “Here Comes That Rainbow Again.” The song tells the story of a man who is watching his loved one die, and he knows that soon he will be gone too. Yet even in the face of death, he finds hope and happiness in the thought of seeing his loved one again in the afterlife.
Why Me Lord – Kris Kristofferson
Why Me
Why Me Lord is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most well-known and loved songs. Written in 1971, the song reflects on the hard times Kristofferson had been going through at the time, including addictions to drugs and alcohol. But despite all of his troubles, he still found himself asking God why he was being punished.
The song is a beautiful reflection on faith and finding hope even in the darkest of times. It’s been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. And it’s easy to see why – it’s a powerful song that speaks to the heart of anyone who has ever gone through tough times.
Sunday Morning Coming Down – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - Sunday Morning Coming Down
Kris Kristofferson is a country singer-songwriter who has written some of the best songs of all time. His song “Sunday Morning Coming Down” is one of his most famous and well-loved tracks.
The song is about a man who is struggling with his life and his addictions. He’s tired of living a life that he doesn’t want to live, and he’s ready to give up. The lyrics are powerful and moving, and they paint a picture of a man who is at the end of his rope.
Stranger – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - Stranger (1975)
If there’s one song that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Kris Kristofferson, it’s “Stranger.” The lyrics tell the story of a drifter who wanders into town and ends up falling in love with a local girl. But as the title suggests, he’s always a stranger to her – and to everyone else in town – and he knows he can never really belong. It’s a melancholy song but also a beautiful one, and it showcases Kristofferson’s talent for writing memorable lyrics.
Help Me Make It Through the Night – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson, Help me make it through the night
One of Kris Kristofferson’s most famous songs, “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” was released in 1970 and became an instant hit. The song was written about his first wife, singer Rita Coolidge, and is a heartfelt plea for her to stay with him through the night. The lyrics are simple but powerful, and the song has been covered by many artists over the years. Its lyrics are about as honest as you can get, and that’s one of the things that makes it so special.
Loving Her Was Easier – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - Loving Her Was Easier 1972
“Loving Her Was Easier” is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most famous songs. Written in 1972, the song was originally recorded by country singer Willie Nelson. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, and has become a classic country ballad.
The song is about a man who is struggling to deal with the end of a relationship. He reflects on all the good times they had together, and how much easier it was to love her than to be without her. The song is sad but beautiful, and has been widely praised by critics and fans alike.
Josie – Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson - Josie
Josie is a classic Kris Kristofferson ballad that tells the story of a young girl who is trying to find her way in the world. The song is written from the perspective of a man who loves her and want s to help her, but knows that he can’t. It’s a beautiful, heart-wrenching song that showcases Kristofferson’s songwriting skills perfectly. Its lyrics are about as good as they get.
Give It Time To Be Tender – Kris Kristofferson
Give It Time to Be Tender
Give It Time To Be Tender is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most moving ballads. The lyrics are simple but heartfelt, and the song has a beautiful melody that will stay with you long after you’ve heard it. If you’re looking for a song to make you feel all the feels, look no further than Give It Time To Be Tender. Some people might also consider Me and Bobby McGee to be one of Kris Kristofferson’s best songs. Written about his longtime friend and fellow musician, the song is a tale of two friends who love each other but can’t be together.
Jody and the Kid – Kris Kristofferson
Jody And The Kid
Jody and the Kid is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most well-known songs. It tells the story of a young man who is trying to make his way in the world, but things are tough and he’s struggling. He meets a girl named Jody, and they fall in love, but eventually the Kid has to leave her behind. It’s a sad song, but it’s also beautiful and lyrical. Some people argue that it’s one of the best country songs ever written.
Me and Bobby McGee – Kris Kristofferson
Me and Bobby McGee
Kris Kristofferson is known for many great songs, but one of his most popular and well-known is “Me and Bobby McGee.” The song was written about his time spent with singer Janis Joplin, and the two had a close relationship. The song tells the story of a couple on the road, looking for a better life. It’s a beautiful and heartbreaking ballad that has become a classic in the country music genre.
I’d rather be sorry – Kris Kristofferson
I'd Rather Be Sorry (duet with Rita Coolidge)
I’d Rather Be Sorry is a heartbreaking ballad that tells the story of a love that was never meant to be. The song is about a man who is reflecting on a past relationship and wishing he had taken the time to appreciate it more while it was still alive. The lyrics are beautiful and the melody is moving, making it one of Kris Kristofferson’s most memorable songs.
Please Don’t Tell Me How The Story Ends – Kris Kristofferson
Please Don't Tell Me How the Story Ends
Kris Kristofferson is one of the most underrated country singers and songwriters of all time. He’s written some of the most beautiful and heartbreaking ballads of all time, and “Please Don’t Tell Me How The Story Ends” is one of his best. The song is about a couple who are breaking up and the pain that comes with it. Kristofferson sings from the perspective of the man who is being left behind, and his lyrics are truly heart-wrenching.
Come Sundown – Kris Kristofferson
Come Sundown
One of Kris Kristofferson’s most well-known and loved songs is “Come Sundown.” Released in 1970 as the title track off his album of the same name, the song reached number six on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Written about a former lover, the song is both heartbreaking and beautiful, with lyrics like “come sundown, she’ll be gone / I’ll be all alone with the memories of us” that evoke a sense of sadness and nostalgia.
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FAQs
20 Best Songs By Kris Kristofferson - TheAwesomeMix? ›
Kristofferson briefly dated Janis Joplin before her death in October 1970. His second marriage was to singer Rita Coolidge in 1973, ending in divorce by 1980. Kristofferson married Lisa Meyers in 1983.
What are Kris Kristofferson's biggest hits? ›- New West | 2009. ...
- A&M | 1978. ...
- Sony | 1982. Here Comes That Rainbow Again. ...
- Sony | 1972. Why Me. ...
- Monument | 1970. For the Good Times. ...
- Monument | 1970. Help Me Make It Through The Night. ...
- Monument | 1970. Me and Bobby McGee. ...
- Monument | 1970. Sunday Morning Coming Down.
Kristofferson briefly dated Janis Joplin before her death in October 1970. His second marriage was to singer Rita Coolidge in 1973, ending in divorce by 1980. Kristofferson married Lisa Meyers in 1983.
How many number one hits did Kris Kristofferson have? ›Kris Kristofferson has one single No. 1 hit as a solo artist and that is “Why Me.” He recorded the track with backing vocals from his wife Rita Coolidge and Larry Gatlin. The song was inspired by Gatlin's track, “Help Me Lord,” along with his church.
What hits did Kris Kristofferson have? ›- Me and Bobby McGee. Janis Joplin. ...
- Sunday Morning Coming Down. Johnny Cash. ...
- Help Me Make It Through the Night (feat. Loren Allred) ...
- For the Good Times. Ray Price. ...
- Why Me. Kris Kristofferson. ...
- Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again) ...
- Casey's Last Ride. ...
- From the Bottle to the Bottom.
"Blinding Lights" by the Weeknd (pictured) is the most-streamed song on Spotify, with over 3.5 billion streams.
Who has more 1 hits than the Beatles? ›Elvis' 14 chart-toppers spent a combined total of 62 weeks at #1 on the “Top/Hot 100,” while The Beatles' 20 #1s spent a total of 59 weeks in the top slot.
Are Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson friends? ›Streisand called Kristofferson "one of my favorite leading men" before inviting the music legend to the stage. It's clear the co-stars have remained close in the decades since sharing the screen. As for their personal lives, Streisand has been married to actor James Brolin since 1998.
Did Kris Kristofferson serve in Vietnam? ›In 1965 I volunteered for Vietnam–and was turned down. They told me I was going to be assigned to West Point to teach English. I decided to get out and go to Nashville instead….”
Who was the love of Janis Joplin? ›In a new memoir, "I Ran Into Some Trouble," Janis Joplin's lover Peggy Caserta recounts her experiences hanging out on Haight-Ashbury, her longtime heroin addiction and her efforts to get clean later in life.
Who wrote the most hit songs in history? ›
Most number one singles by a songwriter (US/UK)
The most successful songwriters in terms of number one singles are John Lennon (1940-80) and Paul McCartney (b. 18 Jun 1942).
Paul McCartney (32) and John Lennon (26), of The Beatles, rank first and second, respectively, for having written the most Hot 100 No. 1s, thanks to their respective group and solo outputs.
What single singer has the most number one hits? ›Mariah Carey (USA) has topped the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart on 19 different occasions.
Are Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson friends? ›Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson are great friends.
What did Kris Kristofferson think of Barbra Streisand? ›Kris Kristofferson said: "Filming with Barbra Streisand is an experience which may have cured me of the movies." Kris Kristofferson did not get along with the director.
What rank did Kris Kristofferson achieve in the military? ›Kris was a Golden Gloves boxer and went to Pomona College in California. From there, he earned a Rhodes scholarship to study literature at Oxford University. He ultimately joined the United States Army and achieved the rank of captain. He became a helicopter pilot, which served him well later.
What is the No 1 song of all time? ›1. 'Blinding Lights' by The Weeknd (3.52 billion streams) The Weeknd is the reigning king of Spotify, with his track racking up more than 3.4 billion views on the platform. We've all grooved to its beats at a club, gym or just in our pyjamas while getting ready.
What is the most downloaded song of all time? ›- Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas - From "Blackmail" ...
- Samne Ye Kaun Aya - From "Jawani Diwani" ...
- Chalte Chalte - Part 1 / From "Chalte Chalte" ...
- Churi Nahin Yeh Mera Dil Hai - From "Gambler" ...
- Dilbar Mere - From "Satte Pe Satta" ...
- Humko Tumse Ho Gaya Hai Pyar - From "Amar Akbar Anthony"
Today, 'I Want to Hold Your Hand' remains The Beatles' highest-selling physical single of all time, with no less than 12 million copies sold worldwide.
Who sold more records Elvis or Beatles? ›
Perhaps unsurprisingly, British rock band The Beatles are top of the list for best-selling artists worldwide, with 183 million units certified sales. Second is Garth Brooks with over 157 million units sales, followed by Elvis Presley with 139 million units.
Who was bigger than Elvis? ›However, The Beatles outrank Elvis in terms of “fame”: The Beatles scored 4.423 vs. Elvis at 3.592. In terms of achievement (referred to as “gravitas”), Presley ranks at 3.523 vs.
Who is Barbra Streisand's best friend? ›Streisand considered Corman not only her best friend, but a surrogate mother, as Corman was 32 and Streisand only 16 when the two first met in an acting class.
Who is Barbra Streisand favorite singer? ›She was a big fan of Elvis and is still a big fan of a singer who can only be described as a megastar. “I really love Stevie Wonder, I have worked with him and he is just great,” Barbra enthused. “Stevie is so infectious.
Did Barbra Streisand like Elvis? ›Elvis and Barbra enjoyed a close friendship throughout the years, a strong admiration for each other's extraordinary talents and they often attended each other's Vegas concerts.
Did Kris Kristofferson fly a helicopter to Johnny Cash's house? ›... also at Johnny Cash's house. By now, we know Kristofferson learned to fly helicopters in the Army and ran into financial trouble while trying to make it in country music. In a big gamble, he stole a helicopter, flew to Cash's house and landed on the Man in Black's front lawn.
Was Kris Kristofferson special forces? ›In the early 1960s, he was stationed with the 8th Infantry Division in West Germany, where he formed a band. After serving overseas, Kristofferson was offered an Army job, teaching English literature at the U.S. Military Academy.
Has Kris Kristofferson been honored by the Kennedy Center? ›Kris Kristofferson, Lyle Lovett, Emmylou Harris (Johnny Cash Tribute) - 1996 Kennedy Center Honors.
Did Janis Joplin sleep with her band? ›She was an omnidirectional sexual omnivore. Joplin took in men and women the way most people take in the morning newspaper. She slept with sailors, musicians, fans and members of the Hells Angels. She turned tricks when stranded and needing money.
Who is Janis Joplin's best friend? ›Peggy Caserta, the legendary singer's best friend, tells author Sheila Weller of their bond and their escapades, from Haight Ashbury to Woodstock.
What did Kris Kristofferson think of Janis Joplin? ›
Kristofferson shared how he felt when he first heard Joplin's rendition of “Me and Bobby McGee.” Kristofferson felt heaviness in his heart as he listened to the song. Every time he heard the song, he tried not to breakdown, because of how sad it felt to listen to Joplin's voice singing such a song.
What is the biggest song ever written? ›According to Guinness World Records, Irving Berlin's "White Christmas" (1942) as performed by Bing Crosby is the best-selling single worldwide, with estimated sales of over 50 million copies.
What singer has the most songs? ›Most recorded artist in music history - Asha Bhosle
In 1974, the Guinness Book of Records had older sister Mangeshkar (now 87) down as recording the most songs in history - a staggering 25,000.
Taylor Swift has once again made music history by claiming every single top 10 spot on Billboard's Hot 100 chart at once. No other artist has ever held all 10 spots at the same time, according to Billboard.
What is the best selling album of all time? ›Michael Jackson's Thriller, estimated to have sold 70 million copies worldwide, is the best-selling album ever. Jackson also currently has the highest number of albums on the list with five, Celine Dion has four, while the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Madonna and Whitney Houston each have three.
Which female singer has the most number 1 songs? ›Mariah Carey (USA) has topped the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart on 19 different occasions.
Who was the first singer to have 7 consecutive #1 hits? ›April 1988: Whitney Houston Becomes the First Artist To Score Seven Consecutive No. 1's. With the release of her single "Where Do Broken Hearts Go" in early '88, Whitney Houston set the record as the only artist ever to reach the milestone of seven consecutive No.
Who is Willie Nelson's favorite singer? ›He also shared his support for Frank Sinatra, even recording covers of songs like “My Way” and “Fly Me To the Moon.” Here's what Nelson said about his relationship with the “Summer Wind” artist — his favorite singer.
Who was the love of Willie Nelson's life? ›D'Angelo was 30 at the time, and Nelson was 53. "My love for Annie was all-consuming, but winning her over wasn't easy," Nelson wrote in his memoir Me & Sister Bobbie.
Who is Willie Nelson's best friend? ›Willie Nelson has spent his career upending expectations, so it should come as little surprise his extended tribute to his best friend, Paul English, confounds the normal boundaries of memoir.
Was Barbra Streisand ever a smoker? ›
While laughing, Streisand explained, "I talked about pot and I was working with [producer] Richard Perry, so that's why." That was the one and only time Streisand smoked, the singer told Variety. "I tried it once and I didn't like the way it made me feel," she said.
Why doesn't Barbra Streisand sing anymore? ›But on top of clothes changes, Streisand can be her own worst critic, and has a hard time getting out of her own head onstage. "It's more about (my expectations)," she said. "That's why when I get off the stage after doing some concerts, I always go, 'I cannot do this again. '"
Can Barbra Streisand read music? ›Though she never learned to read music, Streisand says she can hear a tune in her head.
Was Kris Kristofferson a helicopter pilot in Vietnam War? ›Kristofferson, the son of a US Army officer, was a champion college sportsman before following his father into military service. He graduated from West Point and became a helicopter pilot, finishing his military service in 1965 just as the Vietnam War was unfolding.
Who held the highest rank ever in the military? ›General of the Armies of the United States | |
---|---|
General of the Armies John J. Pershing, the only person to hold the rank during his own lifetime | |
Country | United States |
Service branch | United States Army |
Formation | September 3, 1919 |
After he completed his tour of duty in Germany, Kristofferson received an offer teaching English literature to cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
What is Kris Kristofferson most famous for? ›What is Kris Kristofferson known for? Kris Kristofferson is an American singer, songwriter, and actor, known for his gravelly voice, rugged good looks, and a string of country music hits such as "Me and Bobby McGee," "Help Me Make It Through the Night," "For the Good Times," and "Once More with Feeling."
Who wrote the most top 10 hits? ›Diane Warren is considered to be among the most prolific and successful contemporary songwriter of our time. A quick glance at her list of Top Ten hits reveals a range of musical genres and styles so diverse it's difficult to believe the songs could have come from the same person.
What are the band America's biggest hits? ›No. | Title | Writer(s) |
---|---|---|
1. | "A Horse with No Name" | Dewey Bunnell |
2. | "I Need You" | Gerry Beckley |
3. | "Woman Tonight" | Dan Peek |
4. | "Sister Golden Hair" | Gerry Beckley |
Kris Kristofferson – “Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down”
55 on the Country Singles chart in 1969, but it was “The Man In Black” who made it a worldwide hit.
What rank was Kris Kristofferson in the military? ›
Joining the Army in 1960, Kristofferson earned his Ranger tab before becoming a helicopter pilot, which was critical in getting his country music career off the ground (more on that later). He would reach the rank of captain during his service.
What is the most recorded song ever written? ›Although the good people at Guinness World Records recognize "Summertime" as the most recorded song in history, they also note that "Amazing Grace" has been recorded thousands of times, appearing on at least 11,000 albums.
What songs have the longest #1 hit? ›...
Debby Boone's "You Light Up My Life" was the first to achieve the feat in 1977.
- " You Light Up My Life" by Debby Boone. ...
- " Physical" by Olivia Newton-John. ...
- " ...
- " ...
- "
- (1) Last Night. Morgan Wallen. peak position: 1 – total weeks: 15. ...
- (2) Kill Bill. SZA. ...
- (3) Flowers. Miley Cyrus. ...
- (4) Ella Baila Sola. Eslabon Armado and Peso Pluma. ...
- (5) Calm Down. Rema. ...
- (6) Creepin' Metro Boomin featuring The Weeknd and 21 Savage. ...
- (7) Un X100to. Grupo Frontera and Bad Bunny. ...
- (11) Favorite Song. Toosii.
Mariah Carey (USA) has topped the US Billboard Hot 100 singles chart on 19 different occasions.
What was the song Kris Kristofferson wrote about Janis Joplin? ›“Me and Bobby McGee,” though usually associated with Janis Joplin (who recorded it shortly before her death in 1970), was written by Kristofferson and first recorded by Roger Miller in 1969.