About the song
Kris Kristofferson’s “Border Lord”: An Introduction
Kris Kristofferson is a country music legend, known for his outlaw persona and his honest, gritty songwriting. His third album, Border Lord, was released in 1972 and is considered one of his best works. The title track, “Border Lord,” is a powerful ballad about a man who lives on the edge of society, struggling to find his place in the world.
The song opens with Kristofferson’s deep, resonant voice singing the first line: “I’m a border lord, been on the run too long.” This immediately sets the tone for the song, establishing the protagonist as an outsider, someone who is always on the move. The lyrics go on to describe the border lord’s life, which is full of danger and hardship. He is a “drifter,” a “gambler,” and a “soldier,” and he has seen “more than my share of blood and tears.”
Despite the hardships he has faced, the border lord remains a proud and independent man. He is “not afraid to die,” and he will “never give in.” He is a survivor, and he will continue to fight for his freedom, no matter the cost.
“Border Lord” is a powerful and moving song that captures the spirit of the American West. It is a story of resilience and determination, and it is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.
The song’s themes
The song “Border Lord” explores a number of themes, including:
- The American West: The song is set in the American West, and it captures the spirit of the frontier. The border lord is a product of this environment, and he is shaped by its harshness and beauty.
- Outlaw life: The border lord is an outlaw, and he lives on the edge of society. He is a loner, and he is not afraid to fight for what he believes in.
- Freedom: The border lord is a symbol of freedom. He is a man who refuses to be bound by the rules of society, and he is always on the run from those who would try to control him.
- Love: The song also explores the theme of love. The border lord is in love with a woman named Maria, and she is the only person who can truly understand him.
The song’s impact
“Border Lord” was a critical and commercial success when it was released in 1972. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, and it helped to establish Kristofferson as a major star in the country music world. The song has also been covered by a number of other artists, including Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings.
“Border Lord” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. It is a powerful and moving ballad that captures the spirit of the American West. The song is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.
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Lyrics
“Border Lord”
Darkness had us covered when we split from Minnesota in the morning
In the rain
Black as I was feeling and the street was slick and shiny as a snake
Each of us was a-humming to a half forgotten echo
Hangin’ over in the brain
Tappin’ time and thinking of the time we never had the time to take
Losing to the rising cost of living high and loving hard
And leavin’ every yesterday behind
Learning every bridge you cross, is burning down before you’re off and running
Like the devil just in time
[Chorus:]
Breakin’ any ties before they bind you
Taking any comfort you can find
Running like you’re running out of time
Take it all-take it easy-till it’s over-understanding
When you’re headin’ for the border lord
You’re bound to cross the line
Good lookin’ women every time you stumble
Waitin’ there to catch you when you fall
Gettin’ to you bad enough to let em
Keep you backin’ up till just before your back’s against the wall
[Chorus:]
Breakin’ any ties before they bind you
Takin’ any comfort you can find
Runnin’ like you’re runnin’ out of time
Take it all-take it easy-till it’s over-understanding
When you’re headin’ for the border lord
You’re bound to cross the line