Book Review: Kristofferson: 67 Astounding Songs

Reviewed by Phillip Zozzaro

A window into the heart and mind of a beloved musical talent

Kris Kristofferson was a talented singer & prolific songwriter who released 18 solo albums in addition to nine collaboration albums (“The Highwaymen,” Rita Coolidge, Barbra Streisand) during his life.

Kristofferson’s skills as a lyricist often paid dividends for the artist who used his work, such as Johnny Cash (“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down”), Sammi Smith (“Help Me Make it Through the Night”) and posthumously for Janis Joplin (“Me and Bobby McGee”). When listening to a song, there is often a personal connection between the listener and the balladeer.

In Kristofferson: 67 Astounding Songs, author Richard Somma dives deep into the world of Kris Kristofferson, examining his background, influences, and environment that lit his flame of creativity.

Somma provides a roadmap for optimal listening, choosing songs that were either written or recorded by Kristofferson or recorded by a musical act who impacted Kristofferson. Somma helps us see the deeper meaning in songs like “Help Me Make it Through the Night,” a song about lost love where the influence of country singer Hank Williams is undeniable.

The tragic story of a drunkard is narrated in “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” a country song that would be recorded by Cash, Ray Stevens, and Kristofferson. In addition to breaking down the song selections by decade, Somma supplies the reader with crucial information to the song (i.e. Album, release date and record label) as well as elucidating how he came to his conclusions about particular tunes.

Kris Kristofferson could take a subject such as Hollywood and the abuse of the star system and turn it into a powerful critique, such as in “Golden Idol.” The dispirited soldier arriving home to the jeers and taunts of ungrateful protesters is reflected on in “Viet Nam Blues.” Kristofferson was able to infuse his lyrics with free verse poetry that was powerful and often personal.

Richard Somma possesses a golden ear for lyrical intent. Yet his book has a two-fold purpose: share his appreciation for the music of Kris Kristofferson and allow the reader to listen for themselves and detect the subtle nuances of the late singer/songwriter. Somma provides the links for both fascinating literature on the late singer but also links to the songs listed (via Spotify and other outlets).

Kristofferson: 67 Astounding Songs is an insightful book fueled by the love of music. The interpretation of song lyrics has been done before, but Richard Somma’s book stands out as a more personal effort. This faithful, well-rendered book is an excellent companion for those who are already in love with Kristofferson and those who are about to be.

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