A Tribute to Kris Kristofferson and a Life of Music and Faith

“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?”

Kris Kristofferson passed away at his home in Hawaii on September 28th at the age of 88, leaving his mark on the world not only as a musician and actor but also as a man of faith. Known for his poetic lyrics, Kristofferson’s music often explored a yearning for grace. The raw vulnerability of his song “Why Me” became an anthem for those seeking redemption in the turbulent years following the Vietnam War.

Born in Texas in 1936, Kristofferson was a Rhodes Scholar who studied literature at Oxford University. He joined the Army in 1960, was commissioned as a second lieutenant, trained as a helicopter pilot, and attained the rank of captain before leaving the military in 1965.

Kristofferson famously launched his music career by landing a helicopter in Johnny Cash’s yard to deliver a demo tape. Cash, whose religious conversion to Christianity later influenced Kristofferson’s life, recorded and popularized Kristofferson’s song “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” a piece whose lyrics shed light on the issues Kristofferson was contending with.

After divorcing his wife, Kristofferson began a relationship with Janis Joplin, whose cover of his song “Me and Bobby McGee” was released posthumously after her heroin overdose in 1970. During this period, Kristofferson found himself moving from one relationship to another while struggling with alcohol and drugs that threatened to wreck his life and career.

“I did everything to die early,” Kristofferson is quoted as saying. “I was riding around in cars and wrecking motorbikes, drinking, and doing everything to die young.”

In 1971, after accepting Jesus into his life, he wrote the song “Why Me Lord,” which was performed by Johnny Cash on the soundtrack of the film Gospel Road. Kristofferson’s journey toward faith was not straightforward. His lyrics reflected his spiritual battles and triumphs, capturing both the darkness and the light that defined his journey. Listeners could hear the echoes of a man constantly grappling with his humanity and striving for a connection to the divine. He did not shy away from depicting the raw, sometimes painful truth of human existence, yet there was always an underlying message of hope—of the possibility of redemption.

Kris Kristofferson’s legacy transcends his music. His honest exploration of faith, his ability to convey the struggles of the human soul, and his willingness to share his journey with others make him a true spiritual artist. His songs remain a testament to his belief in grace and redemption.