The Story Behind Kris Kristofferson’s Help Me Make It Through The Night

Released in 1970, Help Me Make It Through The Night became an iconic country ballad by Kris Kristofferson, but it almost didn’t make it to the public ear. In an era where provocative songs were often unwelcome, this track surprised listeners with its success and honesty.

Kristofferson was inspired by an interview with Frank Sinatra, who famously quipped, “Booze, broads, or a Bible… whatever helps me make it through the night.” This blunt response became the seed for the song. At the time, Kristofferson was struggling as a songwriter, staying with friends Dottie West and her husband in Nashville, when he wrote the lyrics for Help Me Make It Through The Night

. He first offered it to West, but she turned it down, calling it “too suggestive,” although she would later record it for her album Careless Hands.

The song was groundbreaking for its candid exploration of love and desire, veering away from typical country themes of heartbreak or life on the farm. Instead, it tells the story of a one-night stand, masked under the guise of a romantic plea. The combination of Kristofferson’s smooth lyrics and a classic country melody made it a memorable hit that resonated with audiences.

With its slow to mid-fast tempo and catchy melody, Help Me Make It Through The Night

became a song that listeners couldn’t help but revive and embrace, paving the way for a more open-minded and honest expression of love in country music.

Lyrics

Take the ribbon from your hair,
Shake it loose and let it fall,
Layin’ soft upon my skin.
Like the shadows on the wall.
Come and lay down by my side
‘Till the early morning light
All I’m takin’ is your time.
Help me make it through the night.
I don’t care what’s right or wrong,
I don’t try to understand.
Let the devil take tomorrow.
Lord, tonight I need a friend.
Yesterday is dead and gone
And tomorrow’s out of sight.
And it’s sad to be alone.
Help me make it through the night.
I don’t care what’s right or wrong,
I don’t try to understand.
Let the devil take tomorrow.
Lord, tonight I need a friend.
Yesterday is dead and gone
And tomorrow’s out of sight.
Lord, it’s bad to be alone.
Help me make it through the night.

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