About the song
“The Year 2000 Minus 25” by Kris Kristofferson is a thought-provoking and socially conscious song that tackles issues of war, environmental destruction, and political corruption. Released in 1972 on his album *Jesus Was a Capricorn*, the song presents a dystopian vision of the future, where humanity’s reckless behavior has led to widespread devastation and suffering. It serves as both a warning and a call to action, urging listeners to reflect on the consequences of their actions and the state of the world.
The lyrics paint a grim picture of a society plagued by war and environmental degradation. Kristofferson uses vivid imagery to describe the effects of human greed and violence, depicting a world where the natural environment has been ravaged and where the pursuit of power and profit has led to widespread suffering. The song’s title, “The Year 2000 Minus 25,” refers to the then-future year of 1975, suggesting that these issues are not far-off possibilities but immediate concerns that need to be addressed urgently.
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Musically, the song has a haunting, somber tone, with a steady, almost march-like rhythm that reinforces its message of impending doom. The arrangement features a sparse yet powerful combination of acoustic guitar and subtle percussion, allowing Kristofferson’s evocative lyrics to take center stage. His vocal delivery is earnest and resolute, conveying a sense of urgency and moral clarity as he calls out the injustices and follies of the time.
In the song, Kristofferson criticizes not only the leaders and institutions responsible for perpetuating these problems but also the apathy and complacency of the general public. The line, “The rich took what they wanted, the poor gave what they had,” highlights the inequality and exploitation that underpin the world he describes. The song challenges listeners to consider their own role in shaping the future and to take responsibility for the collective well-being of society.
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“The Year 2000 Minus 25” is a powerful example of Kristofferson’s talent for combining poignant social commentary with compelling storytelling. It remains relevant today, as many of the issues he addresses continue to resonate in contemporary discussions about the environment, politics, and social justice.
The song is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of ignoring these critical issues and serves as a timeless call for awareness, responsibility, and action.
Video
Lyrics
“The Year 2000 Minus 25”
Oh say, can you smell ‘er for the smoke?
God’s still up there laughin’
So he’s gotta be alive
Who says he can’t take a dirty joke?
Power is and power does and power slips away
It’s so easy to abuse.
Who’da thought them Arabs woulda bought the USA
Just to give it to the Jews?
[Chorus:]
Singin’ crime still don’t pay
Just like it used to
(Just like it used to)
And time slips away ’til you die
(Slips away ’til you die)
You know but I don’t give a damn
When I choose to
(When I choose to)
And you know but it don’t hurt so bad
When you’re high
(When you’re high)
Oh say does the future of the homesick and the brave
Even matter anymore
There ain’t no more reason for them boys to run away now
Than there was the fight before
And could you tell me why the hell we tried to win back in the war
What we wasted in the last?
Might just ain’t as righteous as it used to be before
When your army’s out of gas
[Chorus:]
Singin’ crime still don’t pay
Just like it used to
(Just like it used to)
And time slips away ’til you die
(Slips away ’til you die)
You know but I don’t give a damn
When I choose to
(When I choose to)
And you know but it don’t hurt so bad
When you’re high
(When you’re high)