Kris Kristofferson – For The Good Times
Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” Sometimes, a song transcends its original purpose, becoming a comfort for those in need and a beacon of empathy. “For The Good Times,” penned by the legendary Kris Kristofferson, is one such piece. Inspired by his personal experiences and the longing in lost love, the song speaks to the heartache of separation with a gentle grace that’s hard to forget. Whether it’s the soulful delivery by Ray Price or countless renditions by other artists, “For The Good Times” continues to resonate as a bittersweet anthem for saying goodbye with tenderness. [read more]
About The Composition
- Title: For The Good Times
- Composer: Kris Kristofferson
- Premiere Date: 1970
- Album: Kristofferson (Kris Kristofferson) / For The Good Times (Ray Price)
- Genre: Country
Background
“For The Good Times” was written by Kris Kristofferson and first recorded by him in 1970. However, it gained widespread popularity when Ray Price released his rendition the same year. The song emerged during a period when the Nashville sound was embracing smoother productions, blending traditional country music with lush orchestration. Kristofferson, with his poetic lyrics and knack for storytelling, captured the complexities of a relationship coming to an end—without bitterness or anger, but rather, with a poignant acceptance. This honest portrayal of love’s farewell gave the song its universal appeal and secured its place in the American songbook.