“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Have you ever heard a song that feels like it’s speaking directly to your soul? That’s what “To Beat The Devil” by Kris Kristofferson does. This isn’t just a song; it’s a narrative, a confessional, and an anthem for anyone who’s ever struggled with their inner demons and come out on the other side—maybe not unscathed, but wiser and stronger.
Kris Kristofferson, with his raspy voice and poetic lyricism, paints a vivid picture of a downtrodden musician facing the harsh realities of life. Released in 1970, the song is a testament to Kristofferson’s storytelling prowess. It’s a ballad for those who’ve been kicked around by life but still find the courage to keep going. The narrative unfolds in a bar, where the protagonist meets a character embodying the devil, offering him a way out of his misery. But instead of succumbing, Kristofferson’s character finds his strength and resolve, realizing that the true victory lies in not giving up, even when the odds are stacked against you.
What makes “To Beat The Devil” so special is its raw honesty and the universal themes it touches upon. We all have our devils—whether they’re doubts, fears, or past mistakes. Kristofferson captures this struggle with a poignancy that’s both relatable and profoundly moving. The line, “If you waste your time talkin’ to the people who don’t listen to the things that you are sayin’, who do you think’s gonna hear?” hits hard. It’s a reminder that our battles are often fought alone, but they’re no less significant for it.
Musically, the song is stripped down and intimate, allowing Kristofferson’s words to take center stage. The gentle strumming of the guitar creates a somber yet comforting backdrop, as if he’s sitting across from you, sharing his story over a quiet drink. The simplicity of the arrangement enhances the song’s emotional impact, making every word resonate deeply.
Listening to “To Beat The Devil” is like having a heart-to-heart with an old friend who’s been through it all. It’s a song for those late nights when you’re questioning everything and need a reminder that you’re not alone in your struggles. Kristofferson’s ability to turn personal pain into a collective experience is what makes this song timeless.
So, the next time you’re feeling down, put on “To Beat The Devil.” Let Kristofferson’s voice guide you through the darkness, and remember that beating the devil isn’t about winning—it’s about never giving up the fight.
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 had written, I saw that he was about a step away from dying, 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 showed me how to beat the devil.
It was wintertime in Nashville
Down on Music City Row
And I was looking for a place
And to get myself out of the cold
To warm the frozen feeling that was eating at my soul
Keep the chilly wind off my guitar
My thirsty wanted whiskey
But my hunger needed beans
But it had been a 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’d guess you’d 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 sitting at the bar
And in the mirror I could see him checking me and my guitar
And he turned and said,
Come up here, boy, and show us what you are
I said I’m dry, and 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 making any money, are you?
I said, you been reading my mail
He just smiled and said, let me see that guitar
I got something you ought to hear
And then he laid it on me
If you waste your time a talking
To the people who don’t listen
To the things that you are saying
Who do you thinks gonna hear?
And if you should die explaining how
The things that they complain about
Are things they could be changing
Who do you thinks 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
‘Cause 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 want to join him
You gotta beat him
I ain’t saying I beat the devil
But I drank his beer for nothing
Then I stole his song
And you still can hear me singing
To the people who don’t listen
To the things that I am saying
Praying someone’s gonna hear
And I guess I’ll die explaining how
The things that they complain about
Are things they could be changing
Hoping someone’s gonna care
I was born a lonely singer
And I’m bound to die the same
But I’ve gotta feed the hunger in my soul
And if I never have a nickel
I won’t ever die ashamed
‘Cause I don’t believe that no one wants to know