Complete List Of Kris Kristofferson Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Agency: Magna Artists, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Kris Kristofferson, born on June 22, 1936, in Brownsville, Texas, left an indelible mark on the world of music and cinema over the course of his storied career. Sadly, Kris Kristofferson passed away on September 28, 2024. Raised in a military family, Kristofferson graduated from Pomona College and attended Oxford University as a Rhodes Scholar. However, his path would take a sharp turn after serving as an Army helicopter pilot. He chose to pursue songwriting instead, moving to Nashville in the mid-1960s and working various odd jobs while trying to break into the music industry. Despite personal struggles, including financial difficulties and the dissolution of his first marriage, Kristofferson’s perseverance paid off when he landed a job sweeping floors at Columbia Recording Studios. This position eventually led to him meeting June Carter, which in turn gave him the opportunity to get Johnny Cash’s attention with his songs.

Kristofferson’s breakthrough moment came when Johnny Cash recorded “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” which won the 1970 Country Music Association Award for Song of the Year. His career as a songwriter quickly skyrocketed, with his compositions being recorded by major artists such as Ray Price, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Janis Joplin, who famously had a posthumous hit with “Me and Bobby McGee.” Kristofferson’s raw, introspective lyrics and his willingness to push boundaries made him a key figure in the burgeoning outlaw country movement, a genre that veered away from the polished Nashville sound toward a grittier, more authentic approach. His debut album Kristofferson (1970), later reissued as Me & Bobby McGee, laid the foundation for his success, featuring timeless classics like “For the Good Times,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” The album established Kristofferson as a powerful voice in country music.

Throughout the 1970s, Kristofferson released a string of successful albums, including The Silver Tongued Devil and I (1971), Jesus Was a Capricorn (1972), and Border Lord (1972), which solidified his reputation as one of the era’s most significant songwriters. His song “Why Me” became his biggest solo hit, reaching No. 1 on the country charts and showcasing his unique ability to blend spirituality and vulnerability. At the same time, Kristofferson’s acting career was taking off, with roles in films like Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973) and A Star Is Born (1976), the latter earning him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor. His contributions to film and music continued to shape popular culture, with his songs covered by numerous artists and his cinematic performances gaining widespread acclaim.

Kristofferson’s extensive discography reflects his evolution as both a musician and a storyteller. His most famous studio albums include Spooky Lady’s Sideshow (1974), Who’s to Bless and Who’s to Blame (1975), and This Old Road (2006), each offering listeners a window into his soul. As a member of the Highwaymen, alongside Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings, Kristofferson further cemented his legacy within the country music world. The supergroup’s success in the 1980s, with albums like Highwayman (1985), continued to elevate Kristofferson’s standing in both country and rock circles. He was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004, and in 2014, he was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to his enduring influence on both music and film. Throughout his career, Kristofferson inspired countless artists, from Johnny Cash to modern songwriters, with his deeply personal, honest approach to music and his willingness to tackle challenging subjects like love, loss, and redemption.

KRIS KRISTOFFERSON STUDIO ALBUMS

Kristofferson

Released 1970

Kris Kristofferson was the debut studio album by the American country singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson. Released in April 1970 on Monument Records, the album is a landmark recording that introduced many of Kristofferson’s most enduring songs, which would later become hits for other artists. The album was produced by Fred Foster and features a mix of folk, country, and rock influences. The song “Me and Bobby McGee,” written by Kristofferson and made famous by Janis Joplin, is one of the album’s standout tracks. This album showcases Kristofferson’s distinctive voice and songwriting style, dealing with themes of freedom, loss, and redemption.

The album was recorded at Monument Recording Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, in late 1969 and early 1970. The musicians on the album include Kristofferson on guitar and vocals, with additional session musicians including Norbert Putnam on bass and Kenny Buttrey on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“Blame It on the Stones” – 2:46
“To Beat the Devil” – 4:42
“Me and Bobby McGee” – 4:23
“The Best of All Possible Worlds” – 3:03
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” – 2:24
“The Law Is for Protection of the People” – 2:40
“Casey’s Last Ride” – 3:37
“Just the Other Side of Nowhere” – 3:38
“Darby’s Castle” – 3:19
“For the Good Times” – 3:25
“Duvalier’s Dream” – 2:58
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” – 4:32

The Silver Tongued Devil and I

Silver Tongued Devil & I by Kris Kristofferson

Released 1971

The Silver Tongued Devil and I was Kris Kristofferson’s second studio album, released in June 1971 by Monument Records. Produced once again by Fred Foster, the album further solidified Kristofferson’s reputation as one of the most significant songwriters of his generation. The album is known for its introspective lyrics and poetic themes of love, regret, and personal growth. The title track, “The Silver Tongued Devil and I,” explores the darker sides of human nature, while other songs like “Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” became hits for other artists. The album was recorded in early 1971 at Monument Recording Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. Kristofferson worked with session musicians such as Billy Swan on guitar and Charlie McCoy on harmonica.

CD Track Listings:

“The Silver Tongued Devil and I” – 4:18
“Jody and the Kid” – 3:07
“Billy Dee” – 2:58
“Good Christian Soldier” – 3:23
“Breakdown (A Long Way from Home)” – 2:42
“Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” – 3:49
“The Taker” – 3:14
“When I Loved Her” – 3:02
“The Pilgrim, Chapter 33” – 3:11
“Epitaph (Black and Blue)” – 3:19

Border Lord

Released 1972

Border Lord was Kris Kristofferson’s third studio album, released in February 1972 by Monument Records. The album represented a departure from Kristofferson’s earlier work, leaning more towards a country-rock sound. It was produced by Fred Foster and was recorded with The Band backing Kristofferson. The album features some of Kristofferson’s most direct and gritty songs, dealing with themes of betrayal, rebellion, and life on the edge. While it did not produce major hit singles, the album remains a fan favorite. The album was recorded in late 1971 at Monument Recording Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. Musicians include Billy Swan, Donnie Fritts, and Charlie McCoy.

CD Track Listings:

“Josie” – 3:11
“Burden of Freedom” – 3:26
“Stagger Mountain Tragedy” – 2:58
“Border Lord” – 3:38
“Somebody Nobody Knows” – 3:34
“Little Girl Lost” – 3:10
“Smokey Put the Sweat on Me” – 3:30
“When She’s Wrong” – 4:47
“Gettin’ By, High and Strange” – 2:34
“Kiss the World Goodbye” – 3:06

Jesus Was a Capricorn

Released 1972

Jesus Was a Capricorn is Kris Kristofferson’s fourth studio album, released in November 1972. The album marked a return to the folk-country sound of his earlier records but also incorporated elements of gospel and blues. Produced by Fred Foster, it included some of Kristofferson’s best-known songs, including the chart-topping “Why Me,” which became his biggest hit single. The album was recorded at Monument Recording Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, between 1971 and 1972, and featured musicians such as Jerry Kennedy on guitar and Bobby Emmons on keyboards.

CD Track Listings:

“Jesus Was a Capricorn (Owed to John Prine)” – 2:30
“Nobody Wins” – 3:06
“It Sure Was (Love)” – 2:51
“Sugar Man” – 3:59
“Help Me” – 3:25
“Jesse Younger” – 2:38
“Give It Time to Be Tender” – 3:26
“Out of Mind, Out of Sight” – 2:59
“Why Me” – 3:28
“I’ve Got to Have You” – 3:22

Full Moon (with Rita Coolidge)

Released 1973

Full Moon is a duet album by Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, released in September 1973 by A&M Records. The album was produced by David Anderle and features a mixture of country, pop, and folk. It showcases the chemistry between Kristofferson and Coolidge, with each contributing to the songwriting. The album produced the hit single “A Song I’d Like to Sing” and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums chart. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles in early 1973 and features contributions from session musicians like Michael Utley on keyboards and Sammy Creason on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“Hard to Be Friends” – 3:26
“It’s All Over (All Over Again)” – 2:47
“I Never Had It So Good” – 4:05
“From the Bottle to the Bottom” – 4:06
“Take Time to Love” – 3:06
“Tennessee Blues” – 3:07
“Part of Your Life” – 3:13
“I’m Down (But I Keep Falling)” – 3:09
“I Heard the Bluebirds Sing” – 2:51
“After the Fact” – 3:10

Spooky Lady’s Sideshow

Released 1974

Spooky Lady’s Sideshow is Kris Kristofferson’s fifth studio album, released in 1974 by Monument Records. This album marked a darker turn in Kristofferson’s songwriting, with themes of disillusionment, heartbreak, and life’s struggles. Produced by David Anderle, the album showcases Kristofferson’s signature blend of country, rock, and folk, with poignant lyrics that delve into personal and social issues. Despite the strong songwriting, the album did not achieve the same commercial success as his earlier works but remains a critical favorite for its raw emotional depth. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, California, in early 1974, with contributions from top session musicians including Stephen Bruton on guitar and Mike Utley on keyboards.

CD Track Listings:

“Same Old Song” – 3:13
“Broken Freedom Song” – 5:24
“Shandy (The Perfect Disguise)” – 3:37
“Star-Spangled Bummer (Whores Die Hard)” – 2:49
“The Lights of Magdala” – 2:58
“I May Smoke Too Much” – 3:08
“One for the Money” – 4:32
“Late Again (Gettin’ Over You)” – 3:33
“Stairway to the Bottom” – 3:58
“Rescue Mission” – 4:21
“Smile at Me Again” – 3:36
“Rock and Roll Time” – 3:29

Breakaway (with Rita Coolidge)

Released 1974

Breakaway is the second duet album by Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, released in 1974 by A&M Records. Following the success of Full Moon, this album continued the blend of country and folk-pop that defined their collaborations. Produced by David Anderle, Breakaway is more polished and commercial in sound, with both artists contributing emotionally charged vocal performances. The album includes the hit single “Lover Please” and was well-received both critically and commercially. The album was recorded in 1974 at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, California. Notable musicians on the album include Booker T. Jones on organ and Mike Utley on keyboards.

CD Track Listings:

“Lover Please” – 3:10
“We Must Have Been Out of Our Minds” – 2:39
“Dakota (The Dancing Bear)” – 3:05
“What’cha Gonna Do” – 2:49
“The Things I Might Have Been” – 3:09
“Slow Down” – 3:45
“Rain” – 2:39
“Sweet Susannah” – 3:54
“I’ve Got to Have You” – 3:24
“I’d Rather Be Sorry” – 3:12

Who’s to Bless and Who’s to Blame

Released 1975

Who’s to Bless and Who’s to Blame is Kris Kristofferson’s sixth studio album, released in November 1975 by Monument Records. This album showcases Kristofferson’s storytelling prowess, with songs exploring themes of morality, guilt, and existential questions. The title track stands out as one of Kristofferson’s most philosophical songs, while tracks like “The Year 2000 Minus 25” reflect his concerns about society’s future. Produced by David Anderle, the album has a more somber and reflective tone compared to his earlier work.
The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles and Quadraphonic Sound Studios in Nashville. Musicians include Mike Utley on keyboards, Stephen Bruton on guitar, and Billy Swan on bass.

CD Track Listings:

“The Year 2000 Minus 25” – 3:39
“If It’s All the Same to You” – 3:18
“Easy, Come On” – 3:43
“Stallion” – 3:14
“Rocket to Stardom” – 3:36
“Stranger” – 3:12
“Who’s to Bless and Who’s to Blame” – 3:35
“Don’t Cuss the Fiddle” – 3:06
“Silver (The Hunger)” – 3:36

Surreal Thing

Released 1976

Surreal Thing is Kris Kristofferson’s seventh studio album, released in July 1976 by Monument Records. The album reflects Kristofferson’s transition into more surreal and introspective themes, with lyrics touching on spirituality, love, and existential musings. Produced by David Anderle, the album features a mix of country and folk influences with a few experimental tracks that deviate from his usual sound. The song “Eddie the Eunuch” became one of the more curious songs in Kristofferson’s discography, blending humor with dark undertones. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles and features notable musicians such as Stephen Bruton on guitar and Booker T. Jones on organ.

CD Track Listings:

“You Show Me Yours (And I’ll Show You Mine)” – 3:38
“Killing Time” – 3:50
“The Prisoner” – 3:55
“Eddie the Eunuch” – 2:54
“It’s Never Gonna Be the Same Again” – 3:30
“I Got a Life of My Own” – 3:33
“The Stranger I Love” – 3:52
“The Golden Idol” – 4:35
“Bad Love Story” – 3:21
“If You Don’t Like Hank Williams” – 3:33

A Star Is Born Soundtrack

Released 1976

The A Star Is Born soundtrack, featuring Kris Kristofferson and Barbra Streisand, accompanied the 1976 remake of the classic film A Star Is Born. This album, which showcases Kristofferson’s gravelly vocals alongside Streisand’s powerful voice, was a commercial hit, blending country rock and pop in a way that captured the essence of both artists. The soundtrack was recorded at A&M Studios in Los Angeles, California, during 1976. Phil Ramone produced the album, ensuring that the sound was polished while keeping the raw emotional energy of the performances.

Kris Kristofferson contributed to several tracks on the album, most notably the rock-infused “Watch Closely Now” and “Hellacious Acres,” which showcased his rugged charm and storytelling prowess. These songs reflected Kristofferson’s gritty country roots, even as the soundtrack leaned into more pop-oriented elements driven by Streisand’s contributions.

The album was a major commercial success, climbing to number one on the Billboard 200 and staying there for six weeks. It went on to be certified four times platinum by the RIAA. This success was further propelled by the hit single “Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born),” performed by Streisand, which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song. The soundtrack overall was a defining moment in both Kristofferson’s and Streisand’s careers, bridging the gap between cinematic storytelling and musical expression.

CD Track Listings:

“Watch Closely Now” – 3:49
“Queen Bee” – 3:55
“Everything” – 3:47
“Lost Inside of You” – 2:53
“Hellacious Acres” – 2:58
“Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born)” – 3:05
“The Woman in the Moon” – 4:49
“I Believe in Love” – 3:13
“Crippled Crow” – 3:30
“With One More Look at You/Watch Closely Now” – 7:17
“Evergreen (Love Theme from A Star Is Born) [Reprise]” – 1:52

Easter Island

Released 1978

Easter Island is Kris Kristofferson’s eighth studio album, released in 1978 by Monument Records. The album features a more reflective Kristofferson, dealing with themes of aging, disillusionment, and introspection. While not one of his more commercially successful albums, Easter Island contains some of his most personal and lyrically rich work. Produced by David Anderle, the album continues Kristofferson’s exploration of folk, country, and rock influences.

The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles and features contributions from musicians like Booker T. Jones on organ, Mike Utley on keyboards, and Stephen Bruton on guitar.

CD Track Listings:

“Risky Bizness” – 3:39
“How Do You Feel (About Foolin’ Around)” – 2:46
“Forever in Your Love” – 3:30
“The Sabre and the Rose” – 4:22
“Spooky Lady’s Revenge” – 4:01
“Easter Island” – 3:42
“The Bigger the Fool (The Harder the Fall)” – 3:38
“Lay Me Down (And Love the World Away)” – 3:49
“The Fighter” – 3:57
“Living Legend” – 3:33

Natural Act (with Rita Coolidge)

Released 1978

Natural Act is the third and final duet album by Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, released in 1978 by A&M Records. Unlike their previous collaborations, this album has a more relaxed and organic feel, showcasing the chemistry between Kristofferson and Coolidge in both their vocals and songwriting. The album features a blend of country, pop, and folk elements, with highlights like “Loving Arms” and “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore.” Produced by David Anderle, this album is often seen as the closing chapter of their musical partnership, though both artists continued with their solo careers. The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles and includes performances by Stephen Bruton on guitar, Booker T. Jones on keyboards, and Sammy Creason on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“Blue as I Do” – 3:50
“Not Everyone Knows” – 3:22
“I Fought the Law” – 2:52
“Number One” – 3:55
“You’re Gonna Love Yourself (In the Morning)” – 3:53
“Loving Arms” – 3:51
“A Song I’d Like to Sing” – 3:28
“Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” – 4:30
“Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends” – 2:46
“Silver Mantis” – 4:10

Shake Hands with the Devil

Released 1979

Shake Hands with the Devil is Kris Kristofferson’s ninth studio album, released in September 1979 by Monument Records. The album takes its name from the phrase symbolizing making deals with unsavory forces, reflecting the darker and more political themes found throughout its tracks. Produced by David Anderle, the album reflects Kristofferson’s continued growth as a socially conscious songwriter, with songs that touch on war, corruption, and personal betrayal. Recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, the album features contributions from musicians like Stephen Bruton on guitar, Mike Utley on keyboards, and Booker T. Jones on organ.

CD Track Listings:

“Shake Hands with the Devil” – 3:23
“Prove It to You One More Time Again” – 2:47
“Whiskey, Whiskey” – 3:04
“Lucky in Love” – 2:51
“Señor (Tales of Yankee Power)” – 5:14
“Smile at Me Again” – 3:34
“Beneath Still Waters” – 2:39
“Late Again (Gettin’ Over You)” – 3:33
“Nobody Loves Anybody Anymore” – 3:07
“Daddy’s Song” – 3:11

To the Bone

Released 1981

To the Bone is Kris Kristofferson’s tenth studio album, released in 1981 by Monument Records. This album showcases Kristofferson’s raw and unflinching approach to storytelling, with songs that explore personal pain, loss, and redemption. The production by David Anderle continues the stripped-down sound of his previous works, focusing on Kristofferson’s gritty voice and simple instrumentation. Though not as commercially successful as earlier albums, To the Bone is considered a deep cut in his catalog, with tracks like “Star-Crossed” and “If You Don’t Like Hank Williams” standing out.
Recorded in Los Angeles at Sunset Sound Studios, the album features contributions from Stephen Bruton, Mike Utley, and Billy Swan.

CD Track Listings:

“Star-Crossed” – 3:24
“Blessing in Disguise” – 3:27
“Falling Out” – 3:32
“Third World Warrior” – 4:04
“Love of Money” – 3:10
“Maybe You Heard” – 3:42
“If You Don’t Like Hank Williams” – 3:33
“To the Bone” – 3:50
“Eagle and the Bear” – 3:36
“Down to Her Socks” – 2:59

Repossessed

Released 1986

Repossessed marks Kris Kristofferson’s return to the studio after a five-year hiatus. Released in 1986 by Mercury Records, this album blends Kristofferson’s signature folk and country sound with elements of rock, addressing personal and political themes with a mix of cynicism and hope. Produced by Chips Moman, Repossessed includes standout tracks like “Mean Old Man” and “They Killed Him,” the latter of which was famously covered by Bob Dylan. The album delves into issues such as war, justice, and the loss of innocence, marking Kristofferson’s continued evolution as a socially conscious artist. The album was recorded at Moman’s studio in Nashville, Tennessee, and features a lineup of top session players, including Mike Leech on bass and Bobby Emmons on keyboards.

CD Track Listings:

“The Heart” – 3:15
“Love Is the Way” – 3:05
“Burden of Freedom” – 4:00
“Mean Old Man” – 3:38
“Shipwrecked in the Eighties” – 4:16
“They Killed Him” – 3:24
“What About Me” – 3:38
“El Gavilan (The Hawk)” – 4:40
“El Coyote” – 3:43
“Anthem ’84” – 2:50

Third World Warrior

Released 1990

Third World Warrior is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most politically charged albums, released in 1990 by Mercury Records. This album finds Kristofferson addressing global issues such as war, poverty, and U.S. foreign policy with a fervent intensity. Songs like “The Eagle and the Bear” and “Don’t Let the Bastards (Get You Down)” deliver powerful messages against injustice and oppression. Produced by Don Was, the album stands out for its sharp lyrical content and stark instrumentation, solidifying Kristofferson’s place as a protest songwriter.
The album was recorded at Was’s studio in Los Angeles, with a backing band that includes Don Was on bass and Jim Keltner on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“The Eagle and the Bear” – 3:36
“Third World Warrior” – 4:00
“Don’t Let the Bastards (Get You Down)” – 3:01
“Love of Money” – 3:38
“Slouching Toward the Millennium” – 3:27
“Burden of Freedom” – 4:12
“The Hero” – 3:33
“Sandinista” – 3:58
“Jesse Jackson” – 3:09
“Mal Sacate” – 3:22

A Moment of Forever

Released 1995

A Moment of Forever marked Kris Kristofferson’s return to mainstream country music after a five-year hiatus. Released in 1995 by Justice Records, the album features a polished, modern country sound produced by Don Was, combining Kristofferson’s lyrical depth with accessible production. The album tackles themes of love, loss, and resilience, with songs like “Shipwrecked in the Eighties” and “Good Love (Shouldn’t Feel So Bad)” reflecting Kristofferson’s ability to balance personal and political concerns.
Recorded at Sound City Studios in Los Angeles, the album features contributions from top Nashville session players, including Benmont Tench on keyboards and Mark Goldenberg on guitar.

CD Track Listings:

“A Moment of Forever” – 4:50
“Worth Fighting For” – 3:28
“Johnny Lobo” – 4:04
“The Promise” – 3:17
“Shipwrecked in the Eighties” – 4:27
“Slouching Toward the Millennium” – 3:27
“Between Heaven and Here” – 4:21
“Casey’s Last Ride” – 3:46
“Good Love (Shouldn’t Feel So Bad)” – 3:26
“New Game Now” – 3:49
“Under the Gun” – 3:58
“Road Warrior’s Lament” – 4:12
“Sam’s Song (Ask Any Working Girl)” – 3:17
“Final Attraction” – 4:10

The Austin Sessions

Released 1999

The Austin Sessions features Kris Kristofferson revisiting some of his most famous songs in a stripped-down, acoustic setting. Released in 1999 by Atlantic Records, the album showcases Kristofferson’s raw and emotionally resonant voice, with minimal production that highlights his songwriting talents. Produced by Fred Mollin and recorded live at Cedar Creek Recording in Austin, Texas, the album includes reworkings of hits like “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” and “For the Good Times.” The relaxed setting and acoustic arrangements offer a fresh perspective on these well-known songs, making the album a fan favorite for its authenticity and simplicity.
Musicians on the album include Stephen Bruton on guitar, Larry Paxton on bass, and Billy Swan on keyboards. The sessions were recorded in July 1998.

CD Track Listings:

“Me and Bobby McGee” – 4:15
“For the Good Times” – 3:55
“The Silver Tongued Devil and I” – 3:40
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” – 3:26
“Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” – 3:53
“To Beat the Devil” – 4:10
“Who’s to Bless and Who’s to Blame” – 3:35
“Why Me” – 3:28
“Nobody Wins” – 3:06
“The Pilgrim: Chapter 33” – 3:06
“Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends” – 2:47

This Old Road

Released 2006

This Old Road was Kris Kristofferson’s first album of new material in over a decade, released by New West Records in 2006. Produced by Don Was, the album reflects Kristofferson’s deepened perspective on life, mortality, and politics. With its minimal production and acoustic arrangements, This Old Road focuses on Kristofferson’s voice and lyrics, emphasizing the stark themes of reflection and social conscience. Songs like “In the News” and “The Last Thing to Go” tackle political issues, while “This Old Road” and “Thank You for a Life” are more personal, introspective tracks.
The album was recorded at Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, featuring musicians such as Don Was on bass and Jim Keltner on drums.

CD Track Listings:

“This Old Road” – 3:53
“Pilgrim’s Progress” – 2:32
“The Last Thing to Go” – 2:59
“Wild American” – 3:32
“In the News” – 3:25
“The Burden of Freedom” – 3:35
“Chase the Feeling” – 4:15
“Holy Creation” – 2:44
“The Show Goes On” – 3:10
“Thank You for a Life” – 3:40
“Final Attraction” – 2:55

Closer to the Bone

Released 2009

Closer to the Bone is one of Kris Kristofferson’s most personal and introspective albums, released by New West Records in 2009. Produced by Don Was, the album continues the stripped-down, acoustic style of This Old Road, focusing on Kristofferson’s reflective lyrics and gruff, emotional vocals. The songs on this album explore themes of mortality, love, and loss with an honesty and simplicity that resonate deeply. Standout tracks include “Closer to the Bone,” “From Here to Forever,” and “Good Morning John,” a tribute to Johnny Cash. The raw emotional power of the album has made it a critical success.
Recorded at Henson Recording Studios in Los Angeles, the album features contributions from Stephen Bruton on guitar and Don Was on bass.

CD Track Listings:

“Closer to the Bone” – 2:45
“From Here to Forever” – 3:36
“Holy Woman” – 2:43
“Starlight and Stone” – 3:42
“Sister Sinead” – 3:32
“Hall of Angels” – 3:37
“Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” – 3:45
“Good Morning John” – 3:35
“Tell Me One More Time” – 2:48
“Let the Walls Come Down” – 3:08

Feeling Mortal

Released 2013

Feeling Mortal was released in 2013 by KK Records and represents another deeply personal collection of songs from Kris Kristofferson. Produced by Don Was, the album continues in the minimalist acoustic style of his recent work, allowing Kristofferson’s voice and lyrics to take center stage. The album’s themes of aging, mortality, and personal reflection resonate throughout, especially in tracks like “Feeling Mortal” and “My Heart Was the Last One to Know.” Kristofferson’s voice, now weathered by time, brings an added layer of authenticity to the poignant subject matter.
The album was recorded at Sunset Sound Studios in Los Angeles, featuring musicians such as Greg Leisz on steel guitar and Don Was on bass.

CD Track Listings:

“Feeling Mortal” – 3:21
“Mama Stewart” – 3:23
“The One You Chose” – 3:58
“Ramblin’ Jack” – 3:13
“I Used to Be Somebody” – 3:17
“My Heart Was the Last One to Know” – 3:20
“The One You Chose” – 3:54
“Castaway” – 3:39
“You Don’t Tell Me What to Do” – 3:19
“The Hitchhiker” – 3:20

The Cedar Creek Sessions

Cedar Creek Sessions by Kris Kristofferson

Released 2016

The Cedar Creek Sessions was released in 2016 by KK Records, capturing Kris Kristofferson in a live-in-the-studio setting. Recorded over three days at Cedar Creek Recording in Austin, Texas, the album features acoustic re-recordings of some of Kristofferson’s most iconic songs, along with new material. Produced by Tamara Saviano, the sessions have an intimate, raw feel, with Kristofferson’s voice carrying the weight of a lifetime of experience. The double album includes new versions of classics like “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” and “Me and Bobby McGee,” as well as more recent songs like “The Promise.”
Musicians on the album include Shawn Camp on guitar and vocals, Kevin Smith on bass, and Michael Ramos on keyboards.