About the song
Kris Kristofferson’s “To Beat the Devil”: A Haunting Ballad of Redemption
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with heartfelt country ballads and introspective lyrics, gifted us with the haunting masterpiece, “To Beat the Devil”. Released in 1970, this song stands as a testament to Kristofferson’s ability to delve into the depths of the human soul, exploring themes of struggle, redemption, and the enduring power of hope.
The song’s narrative unfolds in a dimly lit Nashville bar, where Kristofferson encounters an old friend facing a personal crisis. Through vivid imagery and poignant lyrics, the listener is transported into a world of despair and loneliness. The “frozen feeling” eating away at the old man’s soul serves as a powerful metaphor for the emotional turmoil he’s experiencing. Kristofferson’s empathetic voice, filled with both sympathy and a hint of resignation, captures the raw vulnerability of the situation.
“To Beat the Devil” is more than just a song about a chance encounter in a bar; it’s a meditation on the human condition. The title itself suggests a universal battle against our inner demons, a constant struggle to overcome adversity. Kristofferson’s choice of words is evocative, painting a vivid picture of the protagonist’s isolation and despair. The song’s repetitive chorus, “To beat the devil, to beat the devil,” becomes a haunting mantra, underscoring the relentless nature of the struggle.
What sets “To Beat the Devil” apart is its timeless quality. Despite being written over five decades ago, the song’s themes remain as relevant as ever. The idea of facing one’s demons and seeking redemption is a universal human experience that transcends generations. Kristofferson’s ability to connect with his audience on such a deep level is a testament to his songwriting prowess.
Musically, the song is characterized by a stripped-down, acoustic sound that complements the introspective lyrics. Kristofferson’s raw and emotive vocals, combined with the haunting melody, create a powerful atmosphere that draws the listener in. The song’s simplicity belies its emotional complexity, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
“To Beat the Devil” is not merely a song; it’s a journey. It invites listeners to reflect on their own struggles and to find hope in the face of adversity. Kristofferson’s ability to convey such profound emotions with such economy of words is a testament to his talent as a songwriter. For those who appreciate heartfelt lyrics and soulful melodies, “To Beat the Devil” is a must-listen.
Video
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 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.
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 could call it a Tavern:
Cigarette smoke to the ceiling and sawdust on the floor;
Friendly shadows.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.
An’ he turned and said: “Come up here boy, and show us what you are.”
I said: “I’m dry.” 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’ve got something you oughta hear.”“If you waste your time a-talkin’ to the people who don’t listen,
“To the things that you are sayin’, who do you think’s gonna hear.
“And if you should die explainin’ how the things that they complain about,
“Are things they could be changin’, who do you think’s gonna care?”There were other lonely singers in a world turned deaf and blind,
Who were crucified for what they tried to show.
And their voices have been scattered by the swirling winds of time.
‘Cos the truth remains that no-one wants to know.Well, the old man was a stranger, but I’d heard his song before,
Back when failure had me locked out on the wrong side of the door.
When no-one stood behind me but my shadow on the floor,
And lonesome was more than a state of mind.You see, the devil haunts a hungry man,
If you don’t wanna join him, you got to beat him.
I ain’t sayin’ I beat the devil, but I drank his beer for nothing.
Then I stole his song.And you still can hear me singin’ to the people who don’t listen,
To the things that I am sayin’, prayin’ someone’s gonna hear.
And I guess I’ll die explaining how the things that they complain about,
Are things they could be changin’, hopin’ someone’s gonna care.I was born a lonely singer, and I’m bound to die the same,
But I’ve got to feed the hunger in my soul.
And if I never have a nickel, I won’t ever die ashamed.
‘Cos I don’t believe that no-one wants to know.