About the song
In 1989, country music legend Kris Kristofferson released a heartfelt tribute to the iconic Hank Williams. “A picture of life’s other side” is more than just a song; it’s a poignant reflection on the life and legacy of a country music pioneer. Kristofferson, with his deep, resonant voice and introspective songwriting style, offers us a glimpse into the complexities of Williams’ life and the enduring impact of his music.
The title itself, “A picture of life’s other side,” hints at the duality of Williams’ existence. On one hand, we have the public image of a country music superstar, celebrated for his hits like “Your Cheatin’ Heart” and “Hey, Good Lookin’.” But on the other hand, there was the private man, battling personal demons and health issues. Kristofferson, who has often been compared to Williams in terms of his songwriting abilities and troubled past, seems uniquely qualified to explore these darker aspects of Williams’ life.
Musically, the song is a beautiful blend of traditional country and folk elements. Kristofferson’s guitar playing is understated yet evocative, providing a fitting backdrop for his soulful vocals. The lyrics are filled with imagery and metaphors, painting a vivid picture of Williams’ life and struggles. For instance, the line “He sang of heartache and he drank of despair” is a powerful reminder of the emotional turmoil that Williams experienced throughout his career.
One of the most striking aspects of the song is Kristofferson’s ability to capture the essence of Williams’ music without simply imitating it. While there are certainly echoes of Williams’ style in Kristofferson’s performance, the song is undeniably his own. This is a testament to Kristofferson’s talent as a songwriter and his deep respect for Williams’ legacy.
In addition to paying tribute to Williams, “A picture of life’s other side” also serves as a meditation on the enduring power of country music. Williams’ songs have resonated with generations of listeners, and Kristofferson’s interpretation only adds to their timeless appeal. The song reminds us that even the most famous and successful people have their own personal struggles, and that it is these struggles that often make their art so compelling.
For older listeners who may be unfamiliar with Kristofferson or Williams, it’s worth noting that this song offers a unique perspective on two of country music’s greatest songwriters. By exploring the similarities and differences between these two artists, Kristofferson helps to deepen our understanding of both. Whether you’re a longtime fan of country music or simply appreciate well-crafted songwriting, “A picture of life’s other side” is a song that deserves to be heard.
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Lyrics
… In the world’s mighty gallery
Of pictures hang
The scenes that’re painted from life
There’s pictures of love and of passion and
There’s pictures of keys and of strife
There hung pictures of youth and of beauty of
Old age and a blushing young bride
They all hung on the wall but the saddest of
All are the pictures from life’s other side
Just a picture from life’s other side
Someone has fell by the way
A life has gone out with the tide
That might have been happy some day
There’s a poor old mother at home
She’s watching and waiting alone
Just longing to hear from a loved one so
Dear just a picture from life’s other side
Now the first scene is that of a gambler
Who’s lost all of his money at play
And he drowses dead mother’s
Ring from her finger
That she wore long ago on her wedding day
It’s his last earthly treasure
But he stakes it then bows his head that his
Shame he might hide
But when they lifted his head
They found he was dead
That’s just a picture from
Life’s other side
Now the last scene is that by the
River of a heartbroken mother and babe
As the harbor lights shine and they shiver on
An outcast soon no one will save
And yet she was once a true woman
She was somebody’s darling and pride
God help her she leaps but there’s no one to
Weep it’s a picture from life’s other side
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