Broken Freedom Song
Kris Kristofferson · Original Album Classics [2009]
Got a song about a soldier
Ridin' somewhere on a train
Empty sleeve pinned to the shoulder
And some pills to ease the pain.
Started drinkin' in El Paso
He was drunk in San Antone
Tellin' strangers who were sleeping
How he hated going home.
Just a simple song of freedom
He was never fighting for
No one's listenin' when you need 'em
Ain't no fun to sing that song no more.
Got a song about the sister waitin'
Somewhere by the phone
For some man who never missed her
Ever since he come and gone.
And it's harder for a woman
With a baby on the way
That's the price of being human
When you're poor enough to pay.
So she listen to the freedom
In the silence at her door
No one's missin' till you need 'em
Ain't no fun to sing that song no more.
Got a song about a saviour
Looking lonesome and afraid
At a city full of strangers
And a cross he never made.
And he's sadder than he's wiser
And a longer way from home
And he wonders why his father
Left him bleeding and alone.
Just a broken song of freedom
And the closing of a door
No one's missin' till you need 'em
Ain't no fun to sing that song no more...
Broken Freedom Song
Kris Kristofferson's 'Broken Freedom Song' stands as a quintessential example of his mastery in the outlaw country and folk rock genres. Recorded for the compilation 'Original Album Classics [2009]', the track exemplifies the introspective storytelling that defined his career, blending acoustic textures with a raw, emotional delivery. The song reflects Kristofferson's signature ability to weave personal narrative with broader social commentary, a hallmark of his work alongside peers like Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings. While often associated with the broader outlaw movement, Kristofferson maintained a distinct voice, focusing on themes of isolation and moral complexity. This recording captures the essence of his mid-career output, where he continued to refine his songwriting craft, delivering lyrics that resonate with listeners seeking authenticity and depth in their musical experience.