Kris Kristofferson

Kris Kristofferson (1936–2024) was an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He was a prominent figure in the "outlaw country" movement of the 1970s. Before his music career, he attended Pomona College and later studied at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. He also served in the U.S. Army as a helicopter pilot.

Kristofferson worked as a janitor in Nashville while attempting to establish his songwriting career. His songwriting credits include hits such as "Me and Bobby McGee," "For the Good Times," and "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down." He also recorded songs like "Why Me," "The Pilgrim, Chapter 33," and "They Killed Him." His album Jesus Was a Capricorn further explored spiritual themes.

In addition to his music, Kristofferson appeared in numerous films, including A Star Is Born (1976) and the Blade trilogy. He was also a member of the country music supergroup The Highwaymen, alongside Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson.