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Kris Kristofferson – The Silver Tongued Devil And I

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” 

Introduction

In the world of country music, few figures loom as large as Kris Kristofferson. With a voice that’s both rugged and tender, and lyrics that cut straight to the soul, Kristofferson has a rare gift for storytelling. “The Silver Tongued Devil and I” captures a moment in time when the lines between the artist’s personal experiences and the character in his song blurred, creating a hauntingly relatable story. First released in 1971, this track has become a defining piece in his discography, painting a vivid picture of temptation, remorse, and the battle between a man’s best and worst selves.

About the Composition

  • Title: The Silver Tongued Devil and I
  • Composer: Kris Kristofferson
  • Premiere Date: 1971
  • Album/Opus/Collection: The Silver Tongued Devil and I
  • Genre: Country

Background

The album The Silver Tongued Devil and I was released in 1971, marking Kristofferson’s second studio effort and solidifying his reputation as a master songwriter. The inspiration behind the song is believed to stem from Kristofferson’s own struggles and reflections on his duality—a polished, charming persona masking deeper, more complex emotions. The track itself blends autobiographical elements with fictional storytelling, creating a song that’s as introspective as it is universal. At the time of its release, Kristofferson was already a respected lyricist, having penned hits for other country legends. However, with this song and album, he positioned himself as an artist who could seamlessly blend poetry with country melodies, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Musical Style

“The Silver Tongued Devil and I” stands out musically for its minimalist yet evocative arrangement. The song opens with a gentle acoustic guitar riff, soon joined by Kristofferson’s gravelly voice, which conveys a world-weariness that perfectly matches the song’s narrative. The melody is steady and unassuming, allowing the lyrics to take center stage. The instrumentation builds subtly, with soft background harmonies and understated piano accents that mirror the internal conflict of the protagonist. It’s this simplicity that makes the song so powerful, as it relies on the rawness of Kristofferson’s voice and words to draw listeners into the story.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics tell the story of a man who acknowledges his flaws and the devilish charm that leads him astray. With lines like, “I can smile for a while and be the man you want me to be,” Kristofferson paints a picture of a man fully aware of his capacity for deceit but seemingly powerless to change. The “silver-tongued devil” is a metaphor for his own dual nature—an alter ego that seduces and destroys. This theme of internal conflict resonates deeply, as it speaks to the universal struggle between who we are and who we want to be.

Performance History

Since its debut, “The Silver Tongued Devil and I” has been performed countless times by Kristofferson and has become a staple in his live shows. Its straightforward yet emotionally rich delivery makes it a fan favorite. Notable performances include those at the Grand Ole Opry and during his tours throughout the 70s and 80s, where the song’s introspective tone often left audiences spellbound. The piece’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and Kristofferson’s ability to tap into the human experience.

Cultural Impact

“The Silver Tongued Devil and I” has influenced not just country music but also the broader music landscape. Its confessional style and poetic lyricism paved the way for future singer-songwriters who sought to blend narrative storytelling with deeply personal themes. The song’s exploration of human duality and moral complexity has made it a popular reference point in discussions of Kristofferson’s impact on country music. It has also appeared in various media, from documentaries to biopics, serving as a defining example of Kristofferson’s artistry.

Legacy

Today, “The Silver Tongued Devil and I” is seen as one of Kristofferson’s signature pieces. Its introspective lyrics and haunting melody continue to resonate with new generations of listeners, who find in it a reflection of their own internal struggles. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its honesty and the way it captures the complexity of the human condition. Decades after its release, it remains a touchstone for those who appreciate music that isn’t afraid to grapple with the darker side of life.

Conclusion

Listening to “The Silver Tongued Devil and I” is like sitting down with an old friend who isn’t afraid to bare his soul. It’s a song that encourages self-reflection, offering no easy answers but instead a nuanced look at the contradictions that define us all. If you haven’t yet experienced this classic, I highly recommend checking out Kristofferson’s live performance at the Grand Ole Opry, where his gravelly voice and understated delivery bring the lyrics to life in a way that’s unforgettable. Through this song, Kristofferson invites us all to confront our inner devils—and maybe, just maybe, find a little redemption along the way.

Video

 

Lyrics

I took myself down to the Tally-Ho Tavern to buy me a bottle of beer
I sat me down by a tender young maiden whose eyes were as dark as her hair
And as I was searchin’ from bottle to bottle for somethin’ unfoolish to say
That silver tongued devil just slipped from the shadows and smilingly stole her away
I said hey little girl don’t you know he’s the devil he’s everything that I ain’t
Hidin’ intentions of evil under the smile of a saint
All he’s good for is gettin’ in trouble and shifting his share of the blame
And some people swear he’s my double and some even say we’re the same
But the silver tongued devil’s got nothing to lose I’ll only live till I die
We take our own chances and pay our own dues the silver tongued devil and I
Like all the fair maidens who’ve laid down beside him
She knew in her heart that he’d lied
But nothing that I could have said could’ve saved her
No matter how hard that she tried
Cause she’ll offer her soul to the darkness and danger
Of something that she’s never known
And open her arms at the smile of a stranger who’ll love her and leave her alone
And you know he’s the devil…

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