About the song
Kris Kristofferson, a name synonymous with country music’s golden era, has gifted us with countless timeless classics. Among his most poignant works is ‘Good Morning John’, a heartfelt ballad that delves deep into themes of addiction, redemption, and the enduring power of human connection.
Released in 2009 on his album “Closer to the Bone,” ‘Good Morning John’ is a song that carries a particularly personal significance for Kristofferson. It was originally written as a tribute to his friend, the legendary country singer Johnny Cash, who was struggling with addiction at the time. Kristofferson’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a man grappling with his demons, seeking solace in the simple act of waking up and facing another day.
The song’s narrative unfolds with a gentle, melancholic tone. Kristofferson’s signature raspy vocals, combined with the understated instrumentation, create a sense of intimacy that draws the listener in. The lyrics are both evocative and relatable, exploring the universal themes of hope, despair, and the human condition.
In the opening verses, Kristofferson paints a picture of a man who has hit rock bottom. He sings of waking up with “a head full of fog and a heart full of sin,” highlighting the physical and emotional toll of addiction. However, as the song progresses, there is a palpable shift in tone. The chorus, with its repeated line “Good morning John,” becomes a beacon of hope, a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always a chance for renewal.
One of the most striking aspects of ‘Good Morning John’ is its universality. While the song was initially inspired by Johnny Cash’s struggles, its message resonates with anyone who has ever faced adversity. The themes of addiction, redemption, and the power of human connection are timeless, and they continue to speak to audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Kristofferson’s ability to craft such a poignant and relatable song is a testament to his skill as a songwriter. ‘Good Morning John’ is a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope. It is a song that has touched the hearts of millions and will continue to do so for generations to come.
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Lyrics
Good Morning, John!
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
in the naked light of day?
Ain’t it great to see your future shining brighter
than the naked light of day?
You maid it, son!
But I confess there was a time or two I thought that
you might let it slip away.
I love you, John!
In the cold and holy darkness you were always shining brighter than a star.
God bless you, John!
For the love and joy you’ve given and the living inspiration that you are.
You’ve scared me, John!
‘Cause you crossed so many borders into danger with a price upon your head.
They got you, John!
And it hurts to see so many friends, who ran along beside you lying dead.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle out there ain’t
nothing bigger than your heart.
Keep shining, John!
Keep smiling, John!
For you owe it to the others and the dark and holy wonder that you are.
Hang in there, John!
It’s a rocky role to glory, but the strangest and strongest will survive.
Keep smiling, John!
We’ll both make it there tomorrow but today lets say
we’re lucky we’re alive.
We won’t make it there tomorrow,
but today let’s say we’re lucky we’re alive.
I’ll see you John!
Though the best of good intentions have a way of gettin’
scattered by the wind.
I know you, John!
There ain’t nothing you can’t handle now,
’cause there ain’t nothing bigger than your heart.
I’m leavin’ John!
You can lose your mind and mem’ry but you ain’t gonna
lose me as your friend.
I love you, John.
You can lose your mind or memory, but you’ll never lose me as your friend.
Good morning, John!
(Good morning John…)