Singer, songwriter, and actor Kris Kristofferson died in Hawaii on September 28th. He left behind a rich legacy of well-crafted songs that were anything but cookie-cutter. This blog looks at his top love songs for weddings.
Kristofferson was a high IQ Rhodes scholar who had a knack for telling great stories in country songs. Many focused on his loneliness and penchant for heavy-drinking, like “Sunday Morning Come Down.”
He wrote an iconic love song that drips with seduction, “Help Me Make It Through the Night.” Sammi Smith’s recording of the song became a #1 country hit in 1970, and even reached #8 on Billboard’s U.S. Pop Singles Chart.
But his recording with future wife, Rita Coolidge, is the one this blog loves. Watch this performance:
“Help Me Make It Through the Night”
Kris Kristofferson was a gifted lyricist, as this song demonstrates:
“Take the ribbon from your hair,
Shake it loose and let it fall,
Lay it soft upon my skin,
Like the shadows on the wall.”
What a first dance song this could be at your wedding. A half century after he wrote it, couples still request it because it speaks to them, the mark of a timeless masterpiece.
“Loving Her Was Easier”
He wrote another winner in 1971, “Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again).” It charted well and has been covered by a multitude of top artists. Kristofferson again demonstrated his mastery of song lyrics in this gem:
“I have seen the morning burning golden
On the mountain in the skies.
Aching with the feeling
And the freedom of an eagle when she flies.”
“Love is the Way”
Kristofferson struggled with substance abuse issues and relied on his religious faith to help him battle his demons. His religiosity comes through in many of his songs, notably in a delightful love song, “Love is the Way.”
“Why me, Lord?”
Religious couples may also appreciate his hit song, “Why Me, Lord,” for use at their ceremony or even reception.
Kris Kristofferson’s successful acting career somewhat overshadowed his tremendous success as a songwriter and singer. But he may be remembered the most for these wonderful songs that couples will request at their weddings for years to come.
Columbus Pro DJs specializes in wedding entertainment for Columbus couples. Let us know if you have a favorite Kris Kristofferson song you’d like played at your wedding celebration. Check us out!
