Introduction to “To Beat the Devil” by Kris Kristofferson
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with outlaw country music, has crafted a rich tapestry of songs that delve into the depths of the human experience. Among his most iconic works is “To Beat the Devil”, a haunting ballad that explores themes of mortality, redemption, and the eternal struggle against the forces of darkness.
Background
Released in 1970 on Kristofferson’s self-titled debut album, “To Beat the Devil” immediately resonated with audiences for its raw emotion and introspective lyrics. The song’s somber melody, paired with Kristofferson’s distinctive baritone, creates a haunting atmosphere that draws listeners into the heart of the narrative.
At its core, “To Beat the Devil” is a contemplation of life’s fragility and the inevitability of death. Kristofferson paints a vivid picture of a man wrestling with his own mortality, questioning the meaning of existence and searching for a way to transcend the limitations of his earthly existence. The song’s imagery is evocative, with references to gambling, fate, and the devil himself, all symbolizing the uncertainty and risk inherent in life.
One of the most striking aspects of “To Beat the Devil” is its exploration of the concept of redemption. Kristofferson suggests that even in the face of overwhelming odds, it is possible to find salvation through perseverance and faith. The song’s refrain, “I’m gonna beat the devil, gonna beat him for sure,” conveys a sense of determination and hope that resonates with listeners.
The song’s musical arrangement is simple yet effective, with Kristofferson’s acoustic guitar providing the foundation for the melody. The sparse instrumentation allows his vocals to take center stage, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The absence of a chorus further enhances the song’s intimate and introspective quality.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
[Intro]
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 devil[Verse 1]
It 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 shadows[Verse 2]
I 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