About The Song
In 1973, Kris Kristofferson earned his lone major country hit as a solo recording artist when “Why Me Lord” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart while peaking at No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100.
It was released on the album Jesus Was a Capricorn, and featured backing vocals by his then-wife, singer-songwriter Rita Coolidge as well as country artist Larry Gatlin. Since then, several artists have released their own rendition of this gospel-tinged song. This includes Elvis Presley, George Jones, David Allan Coe, Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, and many others.
In the early 1970s, Kris Kristofferson songs became very well known. But what most people did not know is that the country star was at a low point in his life.
So, after performing on a show with other country singers, he decided to tag along with friends to Jimmie Snow’s church, where he had a profound religious experience – something that had never happened to him before.
When Pastor Jimmie asked the crowd if there was anyone that’s feeling lost, Kris Kristofferson – who rarely goes to church – found the notion to raise his hand. The Pastor then asked if anyone was ready to accept Jesus, so Kristofferson got up and came down to the front of the church. Though he no longer remembers the Pastor’s exact words, it’s clear in Kristofferson’s memory how he wept in public and felt the forgiveness that he didn’t know he even needed.
The moment moved him beyond he had ever imagined! And it was there that “Why Me Lord” came to life!
Video
Lyrics
Why me Lord, what have I ever done
To deserve even one
Of the pleasures I’ve known
Tell me Lord, what did I ever do
That was worth loving You
Or the kindness You’ve shown
Lord help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So Help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Tell me Lord, if you think there’s a way
I can try to repay
All I’ve taken from You
Maybe Lord, I can show someone else
What I’ve been through myself
On my way back to You
Lord, help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So Help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Lord, help me Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So Help me Jesus, I know what I am
Now that I know that I’ve needed you
So help me Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand
Jesus, my soul’s in Your hand