About the song
A Timeless Ballad: Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee”
Kris Kristofferson~ Me and Bobby McGee 1971. The moment you hear those words, a certain image probably comes to mind: a dusty road, a worn-out car, and two friends on a journey. This iconic song, released in 1971, has become a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.
“Me and Bobby McGee” is more than just a song; it’s a story of friendship, freedom, and the bittersweet nature of life. Kristofferson paints a vivid picture of a nomadic lifestyle, filled with both joy and sorrow. The lyrics are simple yet profound, capturing the essence of the open road and the longing for something more.
One of the most striking aspects of this song is its universal appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who has never ventured far from home, you can relate to the themes of wanderlust and the search for meaning. The imagery of “busting flat in Baton Rouge” and “heading for the trains” evokes a sense of adventure and a desire to escape the ordinary.
Kristofferson’s gravelly voice and heartfelt delivery add an extra layer of authenticity to the song. His performance is both raw and emotive, making it easy for listeners to connect with the characters and their experiences. The song’s popularity was further boosted by its inclusion in the film “Two-Lane Blacktop,” which perfectly captured the spirit of the era.
“Me and Bobby McGee” has been covered by countless artists over the years, each adding their own unique interpretation to the song. However, it’s Kristofferson’s original version that remains the definitive recording. The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its timeless message and its ability to evoke a strong emotional response.
In conclusion, Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGee” is a masterpiece of songwriting that continues to inspire and entertain. It’s a song that has stood the test of time, proving that great music has the power to transcend generations. If you haven’t heard it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a listen. You’re sure to be captivated by its beauty and simplicity.
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