About the song
*”To Beat the Devil” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant reflection on mortality, regret, and the human spirit’s enduring quest for redemption. Written by Kris Kristofferson himself, this haunting ballad delves into the depths of the soul, exploring themes of lost opportunities and the consequences of our choices.
The song’s narrative unfolds in a dimly lit, smoky bar, where a weathered old man sits alone with his thoughts. Kristofferson paints a vivid picture of this solitary figure, a man who has seen better days and is now grappling with the weight of his past. The lyrics are filled with a sense of melancholy and longing, as the protagonist contemplates the life he might have led.
Kristofferson’s lyrics are characterized by their simplicity and directness, yet they convey a profound depth of emotion. His ability to capture the nuances of human experience is evident in every line. The song’s title, “To Beat the Devil,” suggests a lifelong struggle against temptation and adversity. The “devil” here can be interpreted in various ways: it could represent a literal devil figure, a metaphorical representation of sin or addiction, or simply the challenges and hardships of life.
Musically, “To Beat the Devil” is a stripped-down, acoustic ballad that allows Kristofferson’s powerful vocals and evocative lyrics to take center stage. The sparse arrangement, featuring a gentle guitar accompaniment, creates a somber and intimate atmosphere. The song’s simplicity is both its strength and its appeal, as it allows the listener to focus on the raw emotion of Kristofferson’s performance.
Released in 1970, “To Beat the Devil” has become a classic of the country music genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universality of its themes. The song’s exploration of mortality, regret, and redemption continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kris Kristofferson or simply appreciate a well-crafted song, “To Beat the Devil” is a must-listen.
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Lyrics
A couple of years back, I come across a
Great and wasted friend of mine in the hallway of a recording studio
And while he was reciting some poetry to me that he’d written
I saw that he was about a step away from dyin’ and I couldn’t help but wonder why
And, uh, the lines of this song occurred to me
I’m happy to say he’s no longer wasted and he’s got him a good woman
And I’d like to dedicate this to John and June
Who helped show me how to beat the devilIt was winter time in Nashville, down on Music City Row
And I was lookin’ for a place to get myself out of the cold
To warm the frozen feelin’ that was eatin’ at my soul
Keep the chilly wind off my guitar
My thirsty wanted whisky, my hungry needed beans
But it’d been of month of paydays since I’d heard that eagle scream
So with a stomach full of empty and a pocket full of dreams
I left my pride and stepped inside a bar
Actually, I guess you’d call it a tavern
Cigarette smoke to the ceilin’ and sawdust on the floor
Friendly shadowsI saw that there was just one old man sittin’ at the bar
And in the mirror, I could see him checkin’ me and my guitar
And he turned and said, “Come up here, boy, and show us what you are”
I said “I’m dry,” and he bought me a beer
He nodded at my guitar and said, “It’s a tough life, ain’t it?”
I just looked at him
He said, “You ain’t makin’ any money, are you?”
I said, “You’ve been readin’ my mail”
He just smiled and said, “Let me see that guitar
I got somethin’ you oughta hear”
Then he laid it on me
