Kristofferson's varied life experiences and literary bent both helped shape him into one of the most unique songwriting voices of his generation, whose songs have been covered by artists as diverse as Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Ray Price, Ronnie Milsap and even Janis Joplin, in addition to his own solo hits.

Kristofferson's individualism and dogged brilliance helped him kick down genre walls and light the path for other country trailblazers.