“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Lovin’ Her Was Easier (than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” is one of those rare songs that seems to capture the essence of love in its purest form. Penned by Kris Kristofferson, it stands as a gentle, yet heartfelt declaration of how love, despite its complications, can feel effortless when it’s true. Listening to it, you can almost feel yourself sitting around a campfire, reflecting on a love that once was, but whose sweetness and simplicity linger long after.
About the Composition
- Title: Lovin’ Her Was Easier (than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)
- Composer: Kris Kristofferson
- Premiere Date: 1971
- Album: The Silver Tongued Devil and I
- Genre: Country
- Background:
Released in 1971 as part of The Silver Tongued Devil and I album, this song quickly became one of Kristofferson’s most beloved works. The inspiration came from his own experiences and relationships, merging a vivid, poetic style with a sense of melancholy and longing. The song’s lyrical simplicity and heartfelt delivery resonated widely, making it a hit not only for Kristofferson but also for other artists who later covered it, such as Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson. It remains a timeless piece, a testament to the power of honest songwriting.
Musical Style
“Lovin’ Her Was Easier” is defined by its laid-back, country-ballad style, gently supported by acoustic guitar and subtle string accompaniments. The melody is unhurried, allowing the lyrics to take center stage and letting each word breathe. Kristofferson’s gravelly, lived-in voice lends an authenticity to the song, making it feel more like a personal confession than a performance. This style complements the theme of the song—love that is profound yet unforced, like a conversation with an old friend.
Lyrics Analysis
The lyrics are simple yet impactful, reflecting on a love that felt natural, true, and devoid of pretense. Lines like “Lovin’ her was easier than anything I’ll ever do again” suggest not just a love that is remembered fondly but one that is elevated to an almost mythic status in memory. It speaks to the universal experience of looking back on a past relationship and recognizing that, despite the heartbreak or loss, there was a magic and ease that may never be recaptured.
Performance History
This song has been performed and recorded by numerous artists over the decades, adding to its legacy as a country classic. Notably, Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings’ rendition introduced it to a broader audience, giving it a slightly more rugged, outlaw-country feel. Kristofferson himself often performed this song live, always infusing it with the same sincerity and emotion that made it an instant favorite.
Cultural Impact
“Lovin’ Her Was Easier” not only became a defining song for Kristofferson but also influenced the broader landscape of country and folk music. Its introspective lyrics and conversational style paved the way for a more narrative-driven approach to songwriting in the genre. Moreover, its honest portrayal of love and loss has made it a go-to song for film and television soundtracks seeking to evoke a sense of nostalgia and bittersweet reflection.
Legacy
This song continues to be cherished by fans and musicians alike. Its themes of love, memory, and regret resonate across generations, making it more than just a country song but a universal ballad. New listeners still discover it, finding in Kristofferson’s words a kind of wisdom that’s as relevant today as it was in 1971. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest expressions of love are the most profound.
Conclusion
“Lovin’ Her Was Easier (than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)” is more than just a song—it’s a feeling, a memory, and a piece of poetic storytelling that continues to inspire. If you haven’t experienced it yet, I recommend starting with Kristofferson’s original version for its raw honesty, then exploring other interpretations to see how different artists have made it their own. This is one of those songs that will stay with you long after the music stops, much like the love it so eloquently describes.
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