Kris Kristofferson is a talented songwriter, singer and actor. The three-time Grammy Award-winner wrote some of the most covered songs in country music. Many of the tunes this songwriter penned became pop crossover hits as well. Here are some of the best Kris Kristofferson songs:
The song that launched Kris Kristofferson's songwriting career, "Sunday Morning Coming Down" was originally recorded by Ray Stevens and later by Johnny Cash. Cash's version reached number one on the country charts and won the Country Music Association Award for "Song of the Year."
One of the most recognized tunes by songwriter Kris Kristofferson, "Me and Bobby McGee" was recorded by Roger Miller and then Gordon Lightfoot. Janis Joplin's version became her only number one single. Her recording of the Kristofferson song is one of only two posthumous hit singles in rock and roll history.
An often-recorded country music standard, this sexy appeal for love was controversial at the time Kris Kristofferson wrote it. Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Sammi Smith and Gladys Knight all had successful covers of this song. Additionally, Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash covered the song as a duet.
Kris Kristofferson was the first musician to record this song. Covers of the tune were later recorded by the Glaser Brothers, Waylon Jennings, Mark Chesnutt and Willie Nelson. In fact, Willie Nelson says "Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again)" is his favorite melody by songwriter Kris Kristofferson.
The most commercially successful cover of this Kristofferson song was recorded by Carly Simon for her hit album "Anticipation." This love song was also recorded by Sammi Smith, whose version peaked at number 13 on the country charts.
As a songwriter, Kris Kristofferson was able to reach a broad spectrum of people. His music is still recorded by a wide variety of musicians.
Awesome list!
Great list.
I had no idea Kris wrote Bobby McGee. This is a grrreat list!
I had no idea Kris K wrote Bobby McGee, that is one of my husband's favorite songs.
He used to be my favorite. Well done list of songs from an excellent songwriter and singer.
I loved Kris Kristofferson in the movie A Star is Born with Barbara Streisand, he played the part so well. Great list!
One grrrreat list!
Great job!
h5 Kris Kristofferson music selections.
Great tunes
I love Kris Kristofferson. I hear he's on tour now! I love the story of how he landed the helicopter in Johnny Cash's yard (before they knew each other) to sell him on recording Sunday Morning Coming Down, lol. Great list! H5!
select one here...