Kris Kristofferson – “To Beat the Devil”: A Poignant Ode to Struggling Artists and Defying Despair
Released in 1970, Kris Kristofferson’s “To Beat the Devil” is one of the most introspective and meaningful songs in his catalog. This thoughtful ballad, from his self-titled debut album, reflects on the struggles of life, particularly those faced by artists and dreamers who find themselves battling both internal and external demons. While it didn’t achieve the commercial success of some of his other iconic songs, such as “Me and Bobby McGee” or “Help Me Make It Through the Night”, “To Beat the Devil” is a deeply personal and philosophical song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt the weight of doubt and adversity.
At its heart, “To Beat the Devil” is a story about perseverance and the fight against giving up, even when life seems stacked against you. It tells the tale of a songwriter who stumbles into a bar, encounters a grizzled old man (a stand-in for the devil), and reflects on the struggles of trying to make it in a world that doesn’t always recognize talent or passion. The devil-like figure represents despair and self-doubt, mocking the narrator for continuing to try despite repeated failures. But the song takes a turn when the protagonist chooses to defy the devil by continuing to write and sing, even if nobody listens, because, as Kristofferson poignantly puts it, “If you waste your time a-talkin’ to the people who don’t listen, to the things that you are sayin’, who do you think’s gonna hear?”
What makes the song so special is its unvarnished truthfulness. Kristofferson, who had his own share of struggles before becoming a successful songwriter, uses “To Beat the Devil” to speak to the pain and frustration of trying to make a mark in a harsh, indifferent world. The song is not just about musicians, but about anyone who faces obstacles in pursuit of their dreams. It’s about the relentless drive to keep going, even when it feels like you’re getting nowhere. Kristofferson’s weathered, soulful voice adds a layer of authenticity to the lyrics, as you can feel the hard-earned wisdom in every line.
Musically, the song is stripped down and intimate, featuring Kristofferson’s raspy vocals accompanied by gentle acoustic guitar. The simplicity of the arrangement allows the weight of the lyrics to shine through, giving the song a quiet, reflective quality. There’s a conversational tone to the way Kristofferson delivers the song, almost as if he’s sharing these hard-won truths over a drink at a dimly lit bar.
While it never charted as a hit, “To Beat the Devil” is often regarded as one of Kristofferson’s finest works by those familiar with his music. Its message of resilience and standing up to despair is timeless, making it a song that continues to inspire listeners who may be going through their own struggles. In a world where it’s easy to feel like your efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated, “To Beat the Devil” serves as a reminder that sometimes the act of creation itself is enough, and that beating the devil means not giving in to the voices of doubt.
This song, like much of Kristofferson’s early work, blends elements of country, folk, and storytelling, with a sharp poetic edge. “To Beat the Devil” speaks to anyone who has ever felt overlooked or beaten down by life, offering a ray of hope in its quiet defiance. It’s a testament to Kristofferson’s talent not only as a songwriter but as a philosopher and chronicler of the human condition.