Kris Kristofferson – The Winner

About the Song

“The Winner” is a powerful and introspective ballad written and performed by the legendary American singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson. This song was originally released in 1972 as part of Kristofferson’s album “Border Lord.”

The creation of “The Winner” can be traced back to the early 1970s, a period when Kristofferson was solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller and a profound lyricist within the country music genre. The song showcases his exceptional ability to craft narratives that explore the complexities of the human experience.

Kris Kristofferson, renowned for his gravelly voice and his talent for conveying raw emotion through his music, delivers a captivating performance in “The Winner.” The song delves into themes of ambition, success, and the personal cost of achieving one’s goals.

The narrative of the song follows the story of a man who has achieved great professional success but is left feeling hollow and disconnected from his true self. Kristofferson’s lyrics poignantly capture the protagonist’s internal struggle, his yearning for a more meaningful existence, and the realization that true fulfillment may lie beyond the trappings of material wealth and acclaim.

The musical arrangement of “The Winner” is characterized by its sparse yet powerful quality. The song features Kristofferson’s distinctive acoustic guitar work, accompanied by subtle instrumentation that allows his emotive vocals to take center stage. This minimalist approach heightens the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating an intimate and reflective atmosphere.

“The Winner” has become one of Kristofferson’s most thought-provoking and enduring compositions, resonating with audiences for its honest exploration of the human condition. The song’s universal themes of personal growth, the pursuit of happiness, and the true meaning of success have made it a standout in Kristofferson’s extensive discography.

Over the years, “The Winner” has been covered by various artists, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the country and folk music genres. However, Kristofferson’s original version remains the definitive interpretation, showcasing his unparalleled talent as a songwriter and performer.

Through “The Winner,” Kris Kristofferson has once again demonstrated his ability to craft poignant and introspective songs that delve into the complexities of the human experience. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Kristofferson’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential and respected singer-songwriters of his era.

Video

Lyrics

It’s a long, long way to the middle of forever
And I’m feeling kinda low,
But I ain’t got no choice about the matter
Cause I’m just a broken-down loser
With no place else to go.

I got a woman down in Austin,
Who swears that I’m her own,
But I’m just a poor excuse for a husband
And a sorry son of a bitch when I come rolling home.

If it keeps on like this much longer,
I’ll be getting out of town,
Where nobody knows my name
And everything is strange and new.

But I’ll keep on a-fighting,
Cause that’s all I know how to do,
And I might be a winner,
But I’ll never know till I’m through.

So here’s to the losers, the busted and the broken,
The unlucky ones in love.
I know you won’t be laughing
When it’s your turn to cry alone at night,

But maybe in the morning,
You’ll find a brand new start,
And you’ll keep on a-fighting,
Cause that’s all you know how to do,
And you might be a winner,
But you’ll never know till you’re through.