“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Few songs capture the sweet simplicity and bittersweet nostalgia of love quite like “Loving Her Was Easier” by Kris Kristofferson. There’s something so tender and universal about the song that it feels like an old friend—one who understands the highs and lows of loving and letting go. Kris Kristofferson, who is both a poet and a master storyteller, penned this piece with such vulnerability that it’s impossible not to feel every note and word deep in your soul. His raw, unguarded lyrics speak to anyone who has ever experienced the beauty and pain of love.
About The Composition
- Title: Loving Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)
- Composer: Kris Kristofferson
- Premiere Date: Released in 1971
- Album/Opus/Collection: The Silver Tongued Devil and I
- Genre: Country, Folk
Background
“Loving Her Was Easier” came at a time when Kris Kristofferson was cementing his status as one of the most powerful songwriters in country and folk music. Featured on his 1971 album The Silver Tongued Devil and I, the song was a testament to Kristofferson’s ability to blend personal experience with universal emotion. The song’s inspiration likely stems from Kristofferson’s own tumultuous love life, which at the time included high-profile romances and marriages. Its initial reception was overwhelmingly positive, and the song became a defining moment in Kristofferson’s career. It not only reached audiences through its heartfelt lyrics but also resonated because of its stripped-down honesty.
Musical Style
“Loving Her Was Easier” is driven by gentle acoustic guitar work and Kristofferson’s rich, gravelly voice, creating an intimate atmosphere. The song’s structure is simple yet elegant, with soft instrumentation complementing the heartfelt lyrics. Kristofferson’s style leans into folk-country, with an emphasis on storytelling and emotional resonance over technical complexity. His signature rough-edged vocals add to the authenticity of the track, making it feel personal and reflective. The simplicity of the arrangement only heightens the emotional depth, as it allows the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Loving Her Was Easier” encapsulate the ease and grace of falling in love, contrasted by the inevitable heartache that follows. The song is imbued with nostalgia, reflecting on a past love with a sense of peace and gratitude. Kristofferson’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of love that feels effortless—almost too good to be true—yet the very same love leaves a lasting mark. Lines like “Coming close together with a feeling that I’ve never known before in my time” capture the magic of a once-in-a-lifetime connection, while also acknowledging the melancholy of its loss.
Performance History
Since its release in 1971, “Loving Her Was Easier” has been performed countless times by Kris Kristofferson himself and covered by various artists, including Willie Nelson and Roger Miller. The song is often considered a staple of Kristofferson’s live performances and continues to evoke strong emotional responses from audiences. Its timeless appeal is evidenced by its continued presence in Kristofferson’s concert setlists, even decades after its debut.
Cultural Impact
The song has transcended its initial country-folk roots, finding a home in various media and cultural contexts. “Loving Her Was Easier” has appeared in films, television shows, and has been covered by artists across multiple genres. Its universal theme of love and loss makes it a song that resonates with listeners of all backgrounds. Beyond its musical impact, the song solidified Kristofferson’s place as one of the most important songwriters of his generation, influencing countless other artists who followed.
Legacy
“Loving Her Was Easier” remains one of Kris Kristofferson’s most beloved songs. Its message of love, simplicity, and acceptance still strikes a chord with audiences today. The song’s emotional honesty ensures that it will continue to be cherished by both fans and musicians alike. As time goes on, “Loving Her Was Easier” stands as a testament to the enduring power of simple, heartfelt songwriting—a hallmark of Kristofferson’s career.
Conclusion
There’s a reason why “Loving Her Was Easier” has endured for so many years. It speaks to something deep and unspoken in all of us—the quiet, reflective moments where love and memory intertwine. Kris Kristofferson’s genius lies in his ability to distill complex emotions into something raw and relatable. If you haven’t already, take a moment to listen to “Loving Her Was Easier,” and let yourself be transported into that tender space between joy and heartache.
Video
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