Eric Church Leaves Fans in Tears With Unreleased Kris Kristofferson Tribute Song—“Kickin’ It With Kristofferson”

Since Kris Kristofferson’s passing on September 28, celebrities such as Matthew McConaughey, Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, and so many more have paid tribute to one of music’s best songwriters. However, one of the tributes going the extra mile is Eric Church’s.

Church has always looked up to Kristofferson as an inspiration and motivator. Matter of fact, when Church performed at Kristofferson’s tribute concert in 2016, Church took the stage and said, “I’m here because of that man.” Kristofferson’s song “To Beat The Devil” gave him the perseverance to pursue his musical dreams and stay tough amidst the trials and tribulations Nashville’s music scene entails.

That said, Church’s admiration for Kristofferson goes beyond just fandom. Rather, it seems Kristofferson was a sort of angel to Church, and it shows in his tribute post.

Eric Church’s Tribute to Kris Kristofferson

Church took to X to share his love for Kristofferson and pay homage to one of his biggest heroes. Despite the message being brief, it spoke multitudes both about Church and Kristofferson. Church wrote:

“Kris, The ultimate life well lived. Thank you for being a beacon of light in a darkening world. You were my hero and my role model. And even then, you managed to exceed my expectations when you became my friend. So long Captain. Till we meet again”

Again attesting to the meaning Kristofferson had in his life, Church seemingly lost not only a mentor but also a dear friend. And even though this comment is entirely sufficient for honoring the late Kristofferson, the unreleased song Church shares reminds the public of Kristofferson’s contagious kindness and spell-binding talent.

“Kickin’ It With Kristofferson”

The four-minute raw and unproduced acoustic set is something fans have rarely ever seen from Church. By giving a musical synopsis of all the grandiose moments of Kris Kristofferson’s career, Church articulates just how meaningful he was to him, his music, and his life in general.

A somber yet soothingly sentimental song, Church’s tribute piece will surely make you want to shed a tear and think about your closest relationships. Again, this tune is not in the usual Church fashion; therefore, it seems Church held back his vulnerable voice and songwriting pathos for the one and only. Give it a listen if you want to relish in the greatness of both Eric Church and Kris Kristofferson.

Jason Kempin/Getty Images for the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum