A Bittersweet Melody of Love and Farewell
Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, two icons of country music, share a poignant history both as duet partners and as a married couple. Their union, which began spontaneously after meeting at an airport lounge in Los Angeles in 1971, lasted only seven years. Despite the brevity of their marriage, their musical chemistry endured, producing timeless duets like “Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends.”
Originally penned by Kristofferson, the song was first recorded by Bobby Bare for his 1971 album Where Have All the Seasons Gone. It later gained widespread recognition when Ronnie Milsap released his version in 1974, earning his first Grammy for Best Country Vocal Performance and reaching the top of the country charts.
In 1978, Kristofferson revisited his own creation, recording it as a duet with Coolidge for their final collaborative album, Natural Act. This rendition carries a profound emotional weight, given that their partnership, both personal and professional, ended just two years later.
A Haunting Farewell
The song opens with the line, “This could be our last good night together,” setting a reflective and melancholic tone. Kristofferson’s gravelly voice blends seamlessly with Coolidge’s rich, smoky vocals, creating an intimate harmony. Coolidge takes the lead on the first verse, with Kristofferson providing heartfelt harmonies that amplify the song’s bittersweet essence.
As the verses unfold, the duo reflects on fleeting moments and the inevitability of turning the present into mere memories. The final verse encapsulates an aching acceptance of their impending separation, wrapped in the quiet hope of denial – choosing to savor the moment rather than confront the end.
With its heartfelt lyrics and emotionally charged delivery, “Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends” remains a powerful testament to love, loss, and the complexities of letting go.
Lyrics
This could be our last goodnight together
We may never pass this way again
Just let me enjoy ’till its over
Or forever
Please don’t tell me how the story ends
See the way our shadows come together
Softer than your fingers on my skin
Someday this may be all
That we’ll remember
Of each other
Please don’t tell me how the story ends
Never’s just the echo of forever
Lonesome as the love that might have been
Just let me go on loving and believing
‘Till it’s over
Please don’t tell me how the story ends
Please don’t tell me how the story endsAdvertisement
