About the song
“Me and Bobby McGee”: A Timeless Ballad of Friendship and the Open Road
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the sound of a well-worn acoustic guitar and a soulful voice. That’s precisely what you’ll find in the classic country ballad, “Me and Bobby McGee,” a song that has touched the hearts of millions for decades.
Originally written by Kris Kristofferson, this poignant tune paints a vivid picture of friendship, freedom, and the relentless pursuit of the American dream. With its simple yet evocative lyrics, “Me and Bobby McGee” has become an anthem for those who yearn for a simpler time and a more carefree existence.
When Russell Crowe joined Kris Kristofferson for a rendition of this timeless classic, they brought a fresh perspective to the song while honoring its rich history. Crowe’s powerful vocals and Kristofferson’s weathered wisdom combine to create a truly unforgettable performance.
The song’s narrative follows two friends, the narrator and Bobby McGee, as they embark on a journey together. Their bond is deep and unbreakable, and they share a dream of finding a place where they can truly belong. Along the way, they face challenges and setbacks, but their friendship remains steadfast.
The chorus, “Freedom’s just another word for nothing left to lose,” has become one of the most iconic lines in country music history. It speaks to the idea that true freedom comes from letting go of material possessions and societal expectations.
“Me and Bobby McGee” is a song that resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Its themes of friendship, adventure, and the search for meaning are universal. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of country music or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, this is one that you’ll want to add to your playlist.
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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