Kris Kristofferson was an American singer-songwriter and actor, born in 1936 in Texas and passed away in 2024. He was a key figure in the outlaw country movement, known for raw, emotional songs like Me and Bobby McGee and Help Me Make It Through the Night.

Before his career in music, he served as an Army helicopter pilot and taught at West Point. He also had a successful acting career, starring in films such as A Star Is Born and Blade.

He was a member of the country supergroup The Highwaymen with Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings. His influential songwriting and rugged style earned him a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame and multiple Grammy Awards.

About the Song

Why Me Lord is about feeling grateful and humbled by forgiveness and kindness. The song shows someone asking why they deserve such love, expressing deep faith and thankfulness.

Its gentle melody and honest lyrics make it a heartfelt prayer. This gives the song a comforting and spiritual feeling.

Why Me Lord Lyrics by Kris Kristofferson

Verse 1

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 lovin’ you or the kindness you’ve shown?

Chorus

Lord help me, Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So help me, Jesus, I know what I am
But now that I know that I’ve needed you so
Help me, Jesus, my soul’s in your hand

Verse 2

Try 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

Chorus

Lord help me, Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So help me, Jesus, I know what I am
But now that I know that I’ve needed you so
Help me, Jesus, my soul’s in your hand

Chorus

Lord help me, Jesus, I’ve wasted it
So help me, Jesus, I know what I am
But now that I know that I’ve needed you so
Help me, Jesus, my soul’s in your hand

Outro

Jesus, my soul’s in your hand

Similar Songs Like Why Me Lord

Here are songs similar to Why Me Lord by Kris Kristofferson, all written or performed by him. These songs share themes of faith, personal struggle, and raw storytelling for which Kris is known.

• Help Me Make It Through the Night: This gentle ballad speaks to human fragility and the need for comfort in lonely times.
• Me and Bobby McGee: Telling a story of freedom and loss, this classic shows the bittersweet beauty of a fleeting but unforgettable relationship on the road.
• Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down: With clear imagery, this song describes a man’s lonely Sunday, filled with regret and yearning, echoing deep emotional honesty and realism.
• Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again): Romantic and thoughtful, this song highlights the ease of loving someone who brings peace and comfort, even after they’re gone.

Similar Artists Like Kris Kristofferson

If you enjoy his music, these artists also bring heartfelt stories and real-life themes to their songs.

• Waylon Jennings
  Genre: Country, Outlaw Country
  Top Albums: Honky Tonk Heroes (1973), Dreaming My Dreams (1975), Ol’ Waylon (1977)
• Willie Nelson
  Genre: Country, Outlaw Country, Folk
  Top Albums: Red Headed Stranger (1975), Stardust (1978), Shotgun Willie (1973)
• The Highwaymen
  Genre: Country, Outlaw Country, Supergroup
  Top Albums: Highwayman (1985), Highwayman 2 (1990), The Road Goes on Forever (1995)
• Merle Haggard
  Genre: Country, Bakersfield Sound
  Top Albums: Mama Tried (1968), Okie from Muskogee (1969), Back to the Barrooms (1980)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Inspired Kris Kristofferson to Write Why Me Lord?

He wrote it after a personal spiritual awakening during a church service that deeply moved him.

Do Listeners from All Faiths Connect with the Message Why Me Lord?

Yes, the themes of doubt, gratitude, and grace are universal beyond religious boundaries.

Has Why Me Lord Been Honored Through Major Artist Tributes or Covers?

Yes, many artists, such as Elvis Presley, have covered it, showcasing its power and legacy.