About the song
Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee” is a song that has captured the hearts of audiences for generations. Originally written by Kristofferson and performed by Roger Miller in 1969, the song gained widespread recognition through Janis Joplin’s posthumous recording in 1971.
The song tells the story of two drifters, the narrator and Bobby McGee, who embark on a journey together. Their bond is strengthened by their shared experiences and their love for each other. As they travel through the American South and California, they create lasting memories and a sense of companionship.
The lyrics of “Me and Bobby McGee” are both poignant and evocative. Kristofferson’s ability to capture the essence of human connection and the fleeting nature of life is evident in every verse. The song’s simple yet powerful message resonates with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Janis Joplin’s version of the song is particularly memorable. Her soulful vocals and passionate delivery bring the lyrics to life in a way that is both haunting and uplifting. Joplin’s performance helped to solidify the song’s place in the country music canon and introduced it to a wider audience.
“Me and Bobby McGee” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, testifying to its enduring appeal. The song’s timeless message of friendship, love, and the search for meaning has made it a classic that will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
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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