About the song
Kris Kristofferson: A Country Music Legend and the Enduring Ballad “Stranger”
Kris Kristofferson is an American singer-songwriter who has been a towering figure in country music for over five decades. His songs are known for their poetic lyrics, introspective themes, and Kristofferson’s own distinctive baritone voice. One of his most enduring and beloved songs is the ballad “Stranger,” a song that has become a staple of country music radio and a favorite among Kristofferson’s fans.
“Stranger” was written by Kristofferson in the early 1970s and was first released on his 1973 album The Silver Tongued Devil and I. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. It has since been covered by numerous artists, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Emmylou Harris.
The song is a classic ballad about love, loss, and longing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who meets a woman in a bar and spends the night with her. The two strangers share a fleeting connection, but in the morning, the woman is gone. The man is left to wonder if he will ever see her again.
“Stranger” is a beautiful and haunting song that has resonated with listeners for generations. The song’s lyrics are simple but evocative, and Kristofferson’s vocals are heartfelt and sincere. The song’s melody is also memorable, and it has been covered in a variety of styles, from country to pop to jazz.
“Stranger” is more than just a country song; it is a song about the human condition. The song speaks to the universal themes of love, loss, and the search for connection. It is a song that has touched the lives of millions of people, and it is sure to continue to do so for many years to come.
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Lyrics
“Stranger”
Maybe she was smilin’ in the mirror
Maybe I was too, ’cause I was stoned
Singin’ every sad song on the juke-box one more time
Honey, they were hittin’ close to homeAnd I said – Maybe this’ll make you think I’m crazy
Honey, don’t feel lonesome if you do
But if you wanna make a young man happy one more time
I’d sure like to spend the night with you[Chorus:]
And she said – Stranger
Shut out the light and lead me
Somewhere – shut out the shadows, too
And while we lay there, makin’ believe you love me
Stranger, could I believe in youMaybe you got all you got together
Maybe you keep rollin’ like a stone
Maybe some old lonesome song’ll take you by surprise
And leave you just a little more alone[Chorus:]
Singing – Stranger
Shut out the light and lead me
Somewhere – shut out the shadows, too
And while we lay there, makin’ believe you love me
Stranger, could I believe in you[Chorus:]
Keep Singing – Stranger
Shut out the light and lead me
Somewhere – shut out the shadows, too
And while we lay there, makin’ believe you love me
Stranger, could I believe in you