About the song
Kris Kristofferson: A Stranger’s Tale
Have you ever felt like a stranger in your own life? Like the world is passing you by, and you’re just a spectator watching from the sidelines? That’s precisely the feeling that country music legend Kris Kristofferson captures so beautifully in his song, “Stranger.”
Released in 1975 as part of his album Who’s To Bless, “Stranger” is a poignant ballad that delves deep into themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for connection. With his signature gravelly vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Kristofferson paints a vivid picture of a man adrift, yearning for a sense of belonging.
The song opens with the haunting line, “I’ve been a stranger to myself for so long.” This simple yet powerful statement immediately sets the tone for the rest of the song. Kristofferson’s narrator is clearly a man who has lost his way, both physically and emotionally. He’s a drifter, wandering from place to place, unable to find a place where he truly fits in.
As the song progresses, Kristofferson explores the psychological toll of loneliness. He describes feeling like an outsider, always on the periphery of life’s great adventures. The imagery is evocative, painting a picture of a man sitting alone at a bar, watching the world go by.
But despite the somber tone, there’s also a sense of hope in “Stranger.” Kristofferson suggests that even the loneliest of souls can find redemption and connection. The final verse, “I’m looking for a place to call my own, a place where I can be alone,” hints at the narrator’s desire for solitude but also for a deeper sense of belonging.
“Stranger” is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Kristofferson’s ability to convey such raw emotion and vulnerability is what makes his music so enduring. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate great songwriting, this song is definitely worth a listen.
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Lyrics
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 home
And 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
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 you
Maybe 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
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
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