the AMP Issue 63

In Memorian

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON
1936 — Forever

"Tell the truth. Sing with passion. Work with laughter. Love with heart. 'Cause that's all that matters in the end."
— Kris Kristofferson

In This Issue... 15 pages [about 21ish minutes to read] You'll Get... 

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• RECOMMENDS— Kris Kristofferson: The Counter-Culture Hero Full Documentary by Biography

• CRITIQUE— How Good Was He REALLY? from New Music Lives™

• On SONGWRITING— Why Me Lord Story, Told and Sung By Kris Kristofferson 

• the GREATEST SINGER SONGWRITERS of ALL TIME— Kris Kristofferson

• TRIBUTES— Brandi Carlile, Barbra Streisand, Jeff Bridges & More Pay Tribute To Kris Kristofferson by Sarah Pittman from Pollstar

• PS from PS— What Kris Krist-offered Me (not Bobby McGee)...

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Here’s the playlist

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• Recommends— Kris Kristofferson: The Counter-Culture Hero Full Documentary by Biography on YouTube (44:13) 

Originally published in the AMP Issue 56— August 21, 2024

In the world of Singer Songwriters, few figures embody the spirit of rebellion, resilience, and raw talent like Kris Kristofferson. This captivating documentary is a must-watch for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the life of a true American icon. From his days as a Rhodes scholar and army captain to his journey as a helicopter pilot, and ultimately, his rise to fame as a Songwriter and Singer, Kristofferson's life is nothing short of extraordinary.

The documentary takes you through the highs and lows of Kris's career, offering an intimate look at the man behind the music. You'll hear firsthand accounts from those who knew him best, including Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and even his ex-wife and daughters.

These personal insights shed light on the complexities of Kristofferson's character— a man who defied the norms, challenged the status quo, and became a counter-culture hero in the process.

These personal insights shed light on the complexities of Kristofferson's character— a man who defied the norms, challenged the status quo, and became a counter-culture hero in the process.

Whether you're familiar with his work or discovering him for the first time, this documentary will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the depth and breadth of Kristofferson's influence. His famous songs, infused with honesty and grit, continue to resonate with audiences across generations. So, grab a seat and get ready to be inspired by the life and legacy of one of the most intriguing figures in the history of music.

Watch the documentary here: Kris Kristofferson: The Counter-Culture Hero 

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• CRITIQUE— How Good Was He Really?

When evaluating Kris Kristofferson as a Singer Songwriter across all various criteria—  record sales, covers by others, impact on the profession and music in general, esteem from peers, popularity, his role in initiating change and his place in the 'History of Music' pantheon— New Music Lives™ straight-up conclusion is...

Kris Kristofferson ranks among the elite, 
if not the top-tier, of Singer Songwriters.

Because...

1. Record Sales: Though Kristofferson's personal sales were not as monumental as some of his peers, his albums such as The Silver Tongued Devil and I and Jesus Was a Capricorn were influential, and he had consistent success on the charts. His songs, especially when covered by others, have garnered even greater sales.

2. Covers by Others: Kristofferson is perhaps most notable for the sheer number of iconic artists who have covered his songs. Songs like Me and Bobby McGee, Help Me Make It Through the Night, and For the Good Times became even more famous when performed by artists like Janis Joplin, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley. This widespread adoption has cemented his work in musical history.

3. Impact on the Profession and Music in General: Kristofferson's raw, poetic, and often gritty lyricism redefined country music songwriting. He brought a literary, almost philosophical depth to country and folk music, influencing not just his genre, but also the songwriting craft in general. He was a pioneer in blending country with elements of folk, rock, and even blues, helping lay the groundwork for the more introspective and rebellious country movements that followed.

4. Esteem from Peers: Kristofferson is highly respected by his peers, many of whom regard him as a Songwriter's Songwriter. His lyricism, his humility, and his trailblazing career have earned him admiration from fellow legends such as Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and Willie Nelson. He was a key figure in the "outlaw" country movement and is celebrated for his authenticity and intellectual approach to songwriting.

5. Popularity: While his own performances never reached the commercial zenith of some artists, his songwriting made him a household name. His enduring popularity also stems from his cross-disciplinary work as an actor, which only deepened his cultural reach.

6. Initiating Change: Kristofferson challenged the boundaries of conventional country music in the late 1960s and 1970s, encouraging a more reflective, poetic, and socially conscious approach to songwriting. His success paved the way for future generations of Songwriters who sought to blend narrative depth with accessible melodies. He wasn't just making hits—he was reshaping what country music could be.

So...

Taking all factors into account, we say Kris Kristofferson stands in the upper echelon of Singer Songwriters—in the top 10 of all time. His influence transcends commercial metrics, firmly placing him in the pantheon of Songwriters who changed the course of music past, present and future.

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• ON SONGWRITING— Why Me Lord Story, Told and Sung By Kris Kristofferson 

How the song came to be, from country music disc jockey and Nashville-based television host Ralph Emery's Country Legends DVD.

Tap the link to watch this on YouTube Why Me Lord Story 3:25 with 17,431,078 views since October of 2009.

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Ralph asked Kris to tell the story of Why Me, Lord, saying he thought it was inspired by Larry Gatlin. Kristofferson replied...

Yeah, it was. Connie Smith took me to church. The night before, we'd been down in Cookville with a bunch of people doing a benefit for Dottie West's high school band or something. And then Connie took me over to church the next day, to Jimmy Snow's church. 

And I had a profound religious experience during the session, something that had never happened to me before. And Why Me... came out of it. It was a very personal experience then. 

Everybody was kneeling down, and Jimmy said something like, If anybody's lost, please raise their hand. And I was kneeling there. I don't go to church a lot, and the notion of raising my hand was out of the question. 

And I thought, I can't imagine who's doing this. And all of a sudden, I felt my hand going up, and I was hoping nobody else was looking, because everybody had their head over. Bent over, praying. And then he said, If anybody is ready to accept Jesus, something like this, come down to the front of the church. 

And I thought, that would never happen. And I found myself getting up and walking down with all these people and going down there. And I don't really know what he said to me. 

He said something to me like, Are you ready to accept Jesus Christ in your life or something? And I said, I don't know. I didn't know what I was doing there. And he put me down. 

He said, Kneel down here. And I can't even remember what he was saying. But whatever it was, it was such a release for me that I found myself weeping in public. And I felt this forgiveness that I didn't know I even needed. 

Then Ralph asked Kris if he and Janie Fricke and Willie Nelson would to do the song. 

Tap the link to watch the video on YouTube Why Me Lord Story 

Here are the lyrics Kris wrote...

[Verse 1]
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 lovin' you
Or the kindness you've shown?

[Chorus]
Lord help me, Jesus
I've wasted it so help me, Jesus
I know what I am
But now that I know
That I've needed you so help me, Jesus
My soul's in your hand

[Verse 2]
Try 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

[Chorus]
Lord help me, Jesus
I've wasted it so help me, Jesus
I know what I am
But 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
But now that I know
That I've needed you so help me, Jesus
My soul's in your hand

[Tag]
Jesus
My soul's in your hand

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• the Greatest Singer Songwriters of All Time— Kris Kristofferson

Originally published in the AMP Issue 53 — July 31, 2024

Kris Kristofferson: The Poet of Outlaw Country

He's a poet, he's a picker
He's a prophet, he's a pusher
He's a pilgrim and a preacher, and a problem when he's stoned
He's a walkin' contradiction, partly truth and partly fiction,
Takin' ev'ry wrong direction on his lonely way back home.

Kris Kristofferson stands as one of the most influential figures in the history of country music, known for his raw, poignant songwriting and distinctive voice. His career has spanned several decades, earning him a place among the greatest Songwriters of all time. Kristofferson’s impact on country music, his collaborations with other artists, and his ability to blend personal experiences with universal themes have cemented his legacy.

"Kris Kristofferson is one of the best songwriters of our time. His songs are simple yet profound, and they have a way of sticking with you long after you’ve heard them."
— Johnny Cash

His Musical Journey
Kristofferson’s music career began in the 1960s when he moved to Nashville, the heart of country music. Despite early struggles, his persistence paid off when artists like Johnny Cash and Roger Miller began recording his songs. Kristofferson’s big break came with the release of his debut album, Kristofferson, in 1970. The album included some of his most enduring hits like Me and Bobby McGee, Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down, and Help Me Make It Through the Night. These songs showcased his talent for storytelling and his ability to capture the human condition in a few short verses.

"Singing 'Me and Bobby McGee' was one of the highlights of my career. Kris’s songwriting is unparalleled, and his ability to capture emotion in his lyrics is extraordinary."
— Janis Joplin

Popular Records and Albums
Kristofferson's discography is extensive, but a few albums stand out for their critical and commercial success. The Silver Tongued Devil and I (1971) continued the momentum of his debut album with tracks like The Pilgrim, Chapter 33 and Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I'll Ever Do Again). His 1972 album Jesus Was a Capricorn included the hit Why Me, which became his biggest commercial success. 

Kristofferson’s collaboration with Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings as part of the supergroup The Highwaymen resulted in several acclaimed albums, including Highwayman (1985).

"Kris has a way of getting to the heart of a story like nobody else. His songs are timeless, and his impact on country music is immeasurable."
— Willie Nelson

Concerts and Awards
Kristofferson’s live performances have been celebrated for their emotional intensity and authenticity. He has played at iconic venues and festivals worldwide, leaving a lasting impression on audiences with his honest and heartfelt delivery. Over his career, Kristofferson has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammys. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004, a testament to his significant contributions to the genre.

Inspirations and Personal Life
Kris Kristofferson’s songwriting is deeply influenced by his personal experiences and the people he has encountered. His background as a Rhodes Scholar and his time in the U.S. Army provided him with a unique perspective that he brought to his music. Kristofferson has been married three times and has eight children. His struggles with substance abuse and his eventual recovery have also influenced his work, adding depth and authenticity to his songs.

"Kris Kristofferson’s music has a raw beauty that resonates with people. His songs are like poetry, and they have influenced so many artists in and out of country music."
— Emmylou Harris

Political and Social Activism
Throughout his career, Kristofferson has been an outspoken advocate for various social and political causes. He has used his platform to address issues such as human rights, social justice, and opposition to the Vietnam War. His activism is reflected in songs like The Circle and They Killed Him, which honor leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi.

Impact on Other Singer-Songwriters
Kris Kristofferson’s influence on country music and other Singer Songwriters is profound. He is credited with helping to pioneer the outlaw country movement, which brought a rawer, more rebellious edge to the genre. His collaborations with artists like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings helped shape the sound and spirit of outlaw country. Kristofferson’s willingness to tackle difficult subjects and his ability to convey deep emotion in his songs have inspired countless artists. His work has been covered by a wide range of musicians, from Janis Joplin to Bob Dylan, showcasing the universal appeal of his Songwriting.

"Kris Kristofferson’s songs are a reflection of the human condition. They speak to our struggles and our triumphs, and they do so with an honesty that is rare."
— Bob Dylan

Kris Kristofferson’s legacy as a songwriter, performer, and activist continues to inspire new generations of musicians. His contributions to music and his ability to articulate the complexities of life through his songs have earned him a place among the greatest Singer Songwriters of all time.

in partnership with We the People of the United States of America

• TRIBUTES— Brandi Carlile, Barbra Streisand, Jeff Bridges & More Pay Tribute To Kris Kristofferson by Sarah Pittman from Pollstar

Below is a limited selection of the tributes in the Pollstar article. To read the entire article, tap this link: Pollstar Tributes

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Dozens of artists have paid homage to Kris Kristofferson over the past few days since he died at his home on Maui, Hawaii, on Saturday, October 28. He was 88. From his A Star Is Born co-star Barbra Streisand reminiscing about first seeing him perform barefoot at the Troubadour to Margo Price reflecting on how sharing the stage with Kristofferson was "one of the greatest honors of my life." 

The acclaimed Singer Songwriter and actor, who retired from performing and recording in 2021, took the stage for the final time as a special guest at Willie Nelson’s 90th birthday celebration at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles in April 2023. During the first night of the event Kristofferson joined Roseanne Cash to duet on the Lovin’ Her Was Easier (than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again), a song Kristofferson first released in 1971. The next night he and Norah Jones performed a rendition of his 1970 song Help Me Make It Through the Night.

Below its a selection of the Kristofferson tributes shared via official statement or social media on new.pollstar.com.

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from Brandi Carlile  
"Just sitting in a hotel cafe and crying into my coffee today…

Yesterday I didn’t know how to talk about the passing of Kris Kristofferson. 

My feelings about it can’t be contained in these kinds of micro expressions. I do know we need them, and that engaging in the celebration of someone’s life over social media and on these tiny screens is righteous and necessary… it’s emotionally galvanizing for our community and it helps us all to process the loss of a great, great man. But I have to admit, it is hard to grieve this here. I’m missing my friends today.

I had the profound pleasure and honor of being in Kris’s band for a little while. The twins and I will never forget that shine we stood in when we played music next to him. Kris believed in me a long time ago when he agreed to act in my tiny little music video about addiction and forgiveness… for free by the way. He never told me why he did it and I never asked. I will never forget his chuckle and the twinkle in his eye when I asked him if he thought The Highwomen was a good idea…

Kris and Lisa literally brought me to Joni [Mitchell]. They’ve changed my life in countless ways over the last fifteen years or so that we’ve been in one another’s life. I will never forget him and I’ll never forget a single shot of whiskey with him, or a single time our voices locked together on Bobby McGee, Sunday Morning Coming Down or A Case of You.

My favorite thing to do for Kris and Lisa was to give him a kiss on the cheek, and wherever we were, I’d belt out an audaciously loud yodeling version of Lovesick Blues by Hank Williams. It was his favorite song! And Lisa and I would get such a laugh because it made Kris so damn happy to hear it! His memory got foggy later in life, and every time I sang it for him he was hearing it for the first time. Imagine that: getting to hear your favorite song for the first time forever…

That’s the world Lisa and his beautiful family created for and around Kris  Kristofferson… a world of moments and memories that were potent, renewable and ALWAYS laughable. 

This family has been living in the moment for so long that their collection of moments rivals anything this ailing world has to offer. 

I can’t believe that they were generous enough to share a few of them with me.
I’ve got the lovesick blues today…but I’m so lucky to have known Kris Kristofferson. Above all things, Kris had (and will always have) a once-in-a-century family…the kind that history remembers. I love the life he had and the way it ended. 

What a ride, Kristoffersons! I hope you know we all love you so… and we are so grateful for the years you gave us with your once-in-a-lifetime man. 

Deep love and respect, 
X Brandi

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from Barbra Streisand
"The first time I saw Kris performing at the Troubadour club in L.A. I knew he was something special. Barefoot and strumming his guitar, he seemed like the perfect choice for a script I was  developing, which eventually became A Star Is Born.

In the movie, Kris and I sang the song I’d written for the film’s main love theme, Evergreen.

For my latest concert in 2019 at London’s Hyde Park, I asked Kris to join me on-stage to sing our other A Star Is Born duet, Lost Inside Of You.  He was as charming as ever, and the audience showered him with applause. It was a joy seeing him receive the recognition and love he so richly deserved.  

My thoughts go to Kris’ wife, Lisa who I know supported him in every way possible."

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from Jeff Bridges
"Kris Kristofferson, I knew him. Our first crossing of paths was in 1972 on the movie Fat City. His song Help Me Make It Through The Night fit the tone of our film perfectly. His songs fit life perfectly, reflecting the pain, joys, and insights of being alive. Years later, in 1980, I got to work with him on Heaven's Gate. He was perfectly cast as a man who would learn what cynicism & idealism cost. His combination of intelligence and physicality, and I gotta add humility, served him well. He was a wonderful actor. 

On Heaven's Gate I also met Stephen Bruton, his dear, dear, friend and fellow musician. The two of them together created beautiful music, and an example of what friendship and talent can bring forth. Kris and I got a kick out of looking a bit like each other. It gave me the feeling we were brothers. I'll miss you Kris on many levels. I'm blessed that our paths cross, my friend."

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To read tributes from Sheryl Crow, Travis Tritt, Rosanne Cash, Dolly Parton, Tom Morello and many more, tap this link: Pollstar Tributes

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PS from PS— What Kris Krist-Offered Me (not Bobby McGee)...

I remember in my mid-teens the first time I heard Janis Joplin's Me and Bobby McGee and how the story it told captured my imagination. The raw emotion in her voice and the vivid lyrics opened up a world of musical possibility I hadn't known existed. This song truly spoke to me.

But more importantly, a few years later on one particular Sunday morning in my late teens I had a personal almost spiritual experience that would change everything. I woke up with a hangover. Dragging myself downstairs I found my Dad just about to play an album. It was The Johnny Cash Show. As I nursed my hurting head, trying to hide the hangover from him, Johnny's deep baritone filled the room with Sunday Morning Coming Down.

The lyrics hit me and the song truly spoke to me in a deep physical and emotional way, 'The beer I had for breakfast wasn't bad, So I had one more for dessert.' Indeed.

At that moment, Cash wasn't just singing— he was telling MY story. The stark honesty of the song, capturing the loneliness and reflection of that hungover Sunday, spoke to me. Someone had put my exact feelings into words and music.

A few years later, I discovered that Me and Bobby McGee and Sunday Morning Coming Down were both penned by Kris Kristofferson. This revelation was one of many key moments in my life which ignited my passion for Singer Songwriters that has burned brightly ever since.

My lifelong love affair with songs, Songwriters and song-craft has now culminated in the creation of New Music Lives™. It's my way of honoring the impact that Kristofferson's songs— brought to life by Joplin and Cash— have had on me. There are many other songs that I could add to the list but these two stand out as having been big influences. We're dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Singer Songwriters, helping them find their voice and connect with audiences who need to hear their stories.

I believe that somewhere out there, a young Singer Songwriter is crafting lyrics that will become someone else's lifeline, just as both those songs spoke to me all those years ago. That's the power of a song, and that's the legacy I'm committed to preserving and promoting through New Music Lives™.

Until we speak again...

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