About the song
Kris Kristofferson’s ‘Good Morning John’: A Heartfelt Ballad of Redemption
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with raw, heartfelt country music, has gifted us countless timeless classics. Among these treasures is the poignant ballad, ‘Good Morning John’. Released in 2009 on his album “Closer to the Bone,” this song is more than just a melody; it’s a deeply personal journey of redemption and hope.
The song’s genesis is as intriguing as its lyrics. Kristofferson penned “Good Morning John” for a sobriety party celebrating Johnny Cash’s triumph over addiction. In a candid interview with Billboard, Kristofferson revealed the challenge of crafting something meaningful for such an occasion. He wanted to create a song that was both inspiring and genuine, a testament to the power of human spirit in the face of adversity.
The song’s narrative is simple yet profound. It’s a heartfelt conversation between two friends, one offering words of encouragement and support to the other who is struggling. The line, “I love you John,” repeated in the chorus, is both comforting and empowering. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, love and friendship can be our guiding lights.
Kristofferson’s vocals on this track are filled with a raw emotion that is both haunting and beautiful. His voice, weathered by years of experience and life’s trials, carries a weight that resonates deeply with listeners. The accompanying music, with its understated instrumentation, perfectly complements the song’s intimate tone.
“Good Morning John” is more than just a country song; it’s a universal message of hope and resilience. It’s a reminder that it’s never too late to make a change, to start anew. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, offering comfort and inspiration to those who have struggled with addiction or any other form of adversity.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kris Kristofferson or new to his music, ‘Good Morning John’ is a must-listen. It’s a song that will stay with you long after the final note fades, a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire.
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Lyrics
Good Morning, John!
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
in the naked light of day?
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
than the naked light of day?
You maid it, son!
But I confess there was a time or two I thought that
you might let it slip away.
I love you, John!
In the cold and holy darkness you were always shining brighter than a star.
God bless you, John!
For the love and joy you’ve given and the living inspiration that you are.
You’ve scared me, John!
‘Cause you crossed so many borders into danger with a price upon your head.
They got you, John!
And it hurts to see so many friends, who ran along beside you lying dead.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle out there ain’t
nothing bigger than your heart.
Keep shining, John!
Keep smiling, John!
For you owe it to the others and the dark and holy wonder that you are.
Hang in there, John!
It’s a rocky role to glory, but the strangest and strongest will survive.
Keep smiling, John!
We’ll both make it there tomorrow but today lets say
we’re lucky we’re alive.
We won’t make it there tomorrow,
but today let’s say we’re lucky we’re alive.
I’ll see you John!
Though the best of good intentions have a way of gettin’
scattered by the wind.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
I’m leavin’ John!
You can lose your mind and mem’ry but you ain’t gonna
lose me as your friend.
I love you, John.
You can lose your mind or memory, but you’ll never lose me as your friend.
Good morning, John!
(Good morning John…)