Kris Kristofferson

Legendary songwriter, singer, and actor, Kris Kristofferson, passed away on September 29, 2024. He was 88.

Born on June 22, 1936, in Brownsville, Texas, Kris Kristofferson made a career as perhaps one of the greatest songwriters in the history of American music on songs such as “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.”  

"The great thing about being a songwriter is you can hear your baby interpreted by so many people that have creative talents vocally that I don't have,” Kristofferson once quipped during an interview. 

However, Kristofferson’s work as a solo artist was also recognized for signature songs such as “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” and “The Pilgrim, Chapter 33.” But it wasn’t until 1985 that the spotlight shone brightly on him and his vocal talents when he joined with Country Music legends such as Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash as part of the Country supergroup The Highwaymen. His work as an actor was also worthy of praise, with his presence being felt in roles such as A Star is Born, Blade and Heaven’s Gate. In 2004, Kristofferson was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and in 2013, the Country Music storyteller released his last album of all-new material Feeling Mortal. At the beginning of 2021, the music legend announced his ultimate retirement from the spotlight. 

Ultimately, Kristofferson would be recognized by the Academy of Country Music multiple times throughout his career, including the ACM Poet’s Award in 2013, the ACM Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award in 2005 and ACM Single Record of the Year in 1985 via his work with The Highwaymen.