Kris Kristofferson (June 22, 1936 – September 28, 2024) was a seminal American singer-songwriter and actor, renowned for his profound contributions to country music and cinema. His songwriting prowess produced classics like "Me and Bobby McGee," "Help Me Make It Through the Night," and "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," which have been covered by numerous artists. Kristofferson's rugged voice and introspective lyrics helped define the outlaw country movement of the 1970s. Beyond music, he showcased his acting talents in films such as "A Star Is Born" (1976) and "Blade" (1998). A three-time Grammy Award winner and 2004 inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Kristofferson's legacy endures through his timeless songs and impactful performances. ([britannica.com](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Kris-Kristofferson?utm_source=openai))