Kris Kristofferson - Legendary Songwriter

Kris Kristofferson was a country music icon - an exceptionally talented songwriter whose songs were recorded by the likes of Johnny Cash, Janis Joplin, Ray Price, Roger Miller, and many more. Kristofferson died on September 28, 2024, at age 88, leaving a legacy of memorable songs. 

Songs written by Kristofferson:

They Had It Covered First

Chances are, at least once you have been surprised to discover that a song that you like by a particular artist turned out to be a cover - that is, a song actually written by someone else. Even performers who generally write their own songs sometimes record and/or perform music written by another artist.

I recall being surprised when I learned that 'Call Me The Breeze' - a signature Lynyrd Skynyrd song - was written and first performed by JJ Cale. As it happens, there are many 'signature' type songs associated with a performer who had a big hit, that turned out to be covers of someone else's music.

The following videos are the songs performed by the original artists, made famous by someone else (sometimes a more famous performer) who covered the song, and made it their own. I'll leave it up to the reader to decide whether you like the original or the (usually much better known) cover version better. These videos are performed by the man who wrote the song.

The Highwaymen

Their names are as recognizable as any in music history. They were songwriters, singers, guitarists, and distinctive characters – each man a strong personality. All four were stars in their own right, and they joined forces to make music in one of the most unique collaborations we have ever seen. Such a collection of talent could have been a disaster with ego clashes, but these guys were friends first, and apparently, they each checked their egos at the door whenever they performed together. As a group they called themselves ‘The Highwaymen’ – Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson.