Why Me Lord

The Why Me story dates back to the early ’70s. The song, also commonly known as Why Me, Lord was recorded in June 1972 and certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America after selling over a million units. It appeared on the album, Jesus was a Capricorn.With backing vocals from Kristofferson’s soon-to-be wife, Rita Coolidge as well as Larry Gatlin, “Why Me Lord” was actually inspired by Larry Gatlin’s song, “Help Me Lord.” The song was considered perfect to be sung by Kristofferson, as it was about a man who’d gone out and lived life but was now ready to humble himself before Jesus. It was Gatlin’s song and the church service Kristofferson attended that inspired him to write the song. As Kristofferson explained that the pastor asked, “Is anybody feeling lost?” “Up goes my hand,” Kristofferson said. The pastor followed up by asking if Kristofferson was ready to accept Christ into his life. “I’m kneeling there,” Kristofferson continued, “and I carry a big load of guilt around…and I was just out of control, crying. It was a release. It really shook me up.” Kristofferson called the whole thing a profound religious experience.” Why Me Lord” was such a beloved hit that dozens of country singers have covered it. Absolute legends. Just look at this list: Connie Smith, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, George Jones, David Allan Coe, Johnny Cash, Conway Twitty, and Elvis Presley.