About the song
Originally featured on Kris Kristofferson’s debut album “Kristofferson” in 1970, “Me and Bobby McGee” quickly gained popularity for its heartfelt lyrics and melodic charm. The song tells a poignant tale of freedom, love, and loss, resonating deeply with listeners through its evocative storytelling and memorable chorus.
Over the years, “Me and Bobby McGee” has been covered by numerous artists, but perhaps none as memorable as Sheryl Crow and Kris Kristofferson’s rendition. Their collaboration on the song brings a fresh perspective while honoring the original spirit of the track. Sheryl Crow’s soulful voice blends seamlessly with Kristofferson’s distinctive vocals, creating a harmonious duet that captures the essence of the song’s narrative.
Kris Kristofferson, known for his poetic songwriting and influence in the country music scene, wrote “Me and Bobby McGee” alongside Fred Foster, marking a significant milestone in his career. The song achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching high positions on the Billboard charts upon its release.
As we revisit “Me and Bobby McGee” through Sheryl Crow and Kris Kristofferson’s interpretation, we are reminded of its enduring appeal and universal themes. The song’s ability to evoke emotions and paint vivid images through its lyrics has cemented its status as a beloved classic in American music history. Sheryl Crow and Kris Kristofferson’s rendition pays homage to the song’s legacy while offering a fresh perspective that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Video
Lyrics
Busted flat in Baton Rouge, waitin’ for a train
When I’s feelin’ near as faded as my jeans
Bobby thumbed a diesel down, just before it rained
And rode us all the way into New Orleans
I pulled my harpoon out of my dirty red bandana
I’s playin’ soft while Bobby sang the blues
Windshield wipers slappin’ time, I’s holdin’ Bobby’s hand in mine
We sang every song that driver knew
Freedom is just another word for nothin’ left to lose
Nothin’, don’t mean nothin’ hon’ if it ain’t free, no-no
And feelin’ good was easy, Lord, when he sang the blues
You know feelin’ good was good enough for me
Good enough for me and my Bobby McGee
From the Kentucky coal mine to the California sun
There Bobby shared the secrets of my soul
Through all kinds of weather, through everything we done
Yeah, Bobby baby, kept me from the cold
One day up near Salinas, Lord, I let him slip away
He’s lookin’ for that home, and I hope he finds it
But, I’d trade all of my tomorrows, for one single yesterday
To be holdin’ Bobby’s body next to mine
Freedom is just another word for nothin’ left to lose
Nothin’, and that’s all that Bobby left me, yeah
But feelin’ good was easy, Lord, when he sang the blues
That feelin’ good was good enough for me, mmm-hmm
Good enough for me and my Bobby McGee
La-da-da, la-da-da-da, la-da-da-da-da-da-da
La-da-da-da-da-da-da-da, Bobby McGee, yeah
La-da-da-da-da, la-da-da-da-da
La, la-la-la-da-da- Bobby McGee, oh yeah
La-da-da, la-da-da, la, da-da, la, da-da
La-da-da, la-da-da, la-di-da
Hey now, Bobby now, now Bobby McGee, yeah
Lord, oh Lord, oh Lord, lo-da-da, na-na-na, na-na-na, na-na-na
Hey now, Bobby now, now Bobby McGee, yeah
Well, I wanna call him my lover, call him my man
I said, I call him my lover, did the best I can, come on
Hey now, Bobby now, hey now Bobby McGee, yeah
Lord, a Lord, a Lord, a Lord, a Lord, a Lord, a Lord, a Lord, oh
Hey-hey-hey, Bobby McGee, Lord