About the song
Originally released in 1969 on Kristofferson’s debut album “Kristofferson,” “Me and Bobby McGee” quickly became a signature song for Kristofferson. Its poignant lyrics and evocative melody resonate with themes of freedom, wanderlust, and the bittersweet memories of a past love. The song tells the story of two lovers navigating life’s twists and turns, capturing a sense of nostalgia and longing that strikes a chord with listeners of all generations.
Upon its release, “Me and Bobby McGee” achieved significant success, reaching the top spot on the charts for several weeks and solidifying Kris Kristofferson’s reputation as a gifted songwriter and performer. Its raw honesty and heartfelt delivery by Kristofferson have made it a beloved classic, covered by numerous artists across different genres over the years.
Kris Kristofferson’s rendition of “Me and Bobby McGee” is characterized by his distinctively rugged voice and earnest storytelling, which have made him a revered figure in the realm of country music. His ability to convey emotion through his lyrics and melody has earned him acclaim not only as a musician but also as a storyteller who captures the essence of the human experience.
As we revisit “Me and Bobby McGee,” we are reminded of Kris Kristofferson’s enduring influence on music and his ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with listeners. The song remains a testament to his songwriting prowess and continues to captivate audiences with its timeless appeal and universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
Video
Lyrics
busted flat in baton rouge
waitin on a train
feelin nearly faded as my jeans
bobby thumbed a deisel down
just before it rained
took us all the way to new orleans
i took my harpoon out of my dirty red bandana
and was blowin sad while bobby sang the blues
with them wind shield wipers slappin time
and bobby clappin hands we finally sang up every song that driver knew
freedoms just another word for nothin left to lose
nothin aint worth nothin . but its free
feelin good was easy lord when bobby sang the blues
feelin good was good enough for me
from the coal mines of kentucky to the california sun