“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
There are songs that feel like a whisper of truth, gently unraveling emotions we often struggle to articulate. “Loving Her Was Easier” by Kris Kristofferson is one such song—a melody that feels both intensely personal and universally relatable. Written by one of country music’s most profound lyricists, this ballad captures the delicate simplicity of love and loss, standing the test of time as a testament to Kris’s unique songwriting prowess.
About The Composition
- Title: Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)
- Composer: Kris Kristofferson
- Premiere Date: 1971
- Album/Collection: The Silver Tongued Devil and I
- Genre: Country / Country Folk
Background
Kris Kristofferson, an artist known for his poetic lyricism and complex themes, wrote “Loving Her Was Easier” during a time when he was transitioning from songwriter to performer. The song was released in 1971 as part of his album The Silver Tongued Devil and I. It reflects a deep, almost melancholic appreciation of love that is both fleeting and profound, rooted in personal experiences. The song’s nuanced lyrics and gentle, lilting melody made it an instant hit, elevating Kristofferson’s status as not just a songwriter, but as a sensitive storyteller. While the song didn’t top the charts initially, its sincerity and emotional resonance secured its place as one of Kristofferson’s signature pieces.
Musical Style
“Loving Her Was Easier” is a song that embraces simplicity, letting its heartfelt lyrics and gentle acoustic instrumentation do most of the talking. The arrangement features soft guitar strums and subtle harmonica interludes, typical of Kristofferson’s stripped-back style. This minimalist approach allows his raspy voice to carry the weight of the song’s emotional core, making each line hit deeper. The track also features smooth transitions and a slow tempo, which mirrors the reflective and nostalgic tone of the lyrics. The absence of any grand instrumental buildup keeps the focus on the storytelling, making it a quintessential example of country folk music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics are a straightforward yet powerful reflection on love’s beauty and its inevitable end. Kris sings about a love that felt effortless—so pure and true that it made everything else in life seem trivial by comparison. Lines like “Loving her was easier than anything I’ll ever do again” evoke a bittersweet sentiment, balancing gratitude and sorrow. The story unfolds in a conversational tone, making it feel as if the singer is confiding in the listener, baring his soul without pretense. This personal touch is what gives the song its timeless quality.
Performance History
“Loving Her Was Easier” became a staple in Kris Kristofferson’s live performances, often met with strong reactions from audiences who connected deeply with its message. Over the years, the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Tompall & The Glaser Brothers and Willie Nelson, further cementing its status in the annals of country music. Each rendition brings out a different shade of the song’s emotion, yet the core of Kristofferson’s writing always shines through.
Cultural Impact
Though not initially a chart-topping success, “Loving Her Was Easier” has grown into a beloved classic, referenced in films, television, and other media as a symbol of genuine, unadorned love. Its simplicity and lyrical beauty have influenced countless songwriters and performers, demonstrating the power of honest storytelling in music. The song’s themes of love and loss resonate universally, making it a go-to piece for listeners seeking solace and understanding.
Legacy
More than five decades since its release, “Loving Her Was Easier” remains one of Kris Kristofferson’s most cherished songs. Its enduring popularity speaks to the timeless nature of its message and its ability to evoke emotion across generations. The song’s lyrics, simple yet profound, continue to touch hearts, while its understated musical style sets a benchmark for authenticity in songwriting.
Conclusion
“Loving Her Was Easier” is a song that invites you to linger in its soft embrace, leaving you with a sense of wistfulness and quiet admiration for the love that once was. It’s a reminder of how powerful simplicity can be in expressing the most complex of human emotions. For those who want to experience the song in its full, heartfelt glory, Kristofferson’s original recording remains unparalleled, though live performances and covers add their own unique shades to this timeless piece. Give it a listen and let it carry you away into the quiet, tender world that Kris Kristofferson so effortlessly creates.
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Lyrics
I have seen the mornin’ burnin’ golden on the mountain in the skies
Achin’ with the feelin’ of the freedom of an eagle when she flies
Turnin’ on the world the way she smiled upon my soul as I lay dyin’
Healin’ as the colors in the sunshine and the shadows of her eyes
Wakin’ in the mornin’ to the feelin’ of her fingers on my skin
Wipin’ out the traces of the people and the places that I’ve been
Teachin’ me that yesterday was somethin’ that I’d never thought of trying’
Talkin’ of tomorrow and the money love and time we had to spend
Lovin’ her was easier than anything I’ll ever do again
Comin’ close together with a feelin’ that I’ve never known before in my time
She ain’t ashamed to be a woman or afraid to be a friend
I don’t know the answer to the easy way she opened every door in my mind
But dreamin’ was as easy as believin’ it was never gonna end
And lovin’ her was easier than anything I’ll ever do again