Watch Kris Kristofferson Perform the Song That Allowed Him to Quit His Day Job on Austin City Limits

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Kris Kristofferson was a prolific songwriter whose compositions have been recorded by a multitude of artists over the years. Icons like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, Ray Price, Ray Charles, and Janis Joplin put their unique spins on Kristofferson's songs, breathing new life into his words. However, listening to Kristofferson sing his own timeless songs has a distinct power, capturing the raw emotion and intent only he could convey, as the original creator.

Though Kristofferson may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of the artists who recorded his work, his talent is undeniable. Concert footage of him performing his classic tunes remains a lasting testament to his artistry. A particularly memorable performance of "Sunday Morning Comin' Down" on *Austin City Limits* in 1981 exemplifies this, showcasing his poignant storytelling and expressive delivery.

Interestingly, Kristofferson's appearance on *Austin City Limits* nearly didn’t happen. According to ACL producer Terry Lickona, a power outage hit the studio as the show was about to start, causing a complete blackout. The audience was eventually led out by flashlight, singing the show's theme as they left. Despite the setback, Kristofferson returned the next day to perform, leaving an indelible mark on the show’s history.

The song "Sunday Morning Comin' Down" was a turning point in Kristofferson's career. Originally included on his 1970 debut album, *Kristofferson*, the song was first recorded by Ray Stevens in 1969. However, it was Johnny Cash's 1970 version that truly brought the song to the forefront. Cash's rendition reached No. 1 on the Billboard country chart and earned Kristofferson the Song of the Year award at the CMA Awards. This recognition opened doors for him, and the success of the song ultimately allowed him to leave his day job and focus on music full-time.

Reflecting on the song's impact, Kristofferson shared in a 2013 interview with NPR that "Sunday Morning Comin' Down" changed his life, allowing him to pursue his passion for songwriting and earn the admiration of artists he respected. His legacy as a songwriter lives on, and performances like those on *Austin City Limits* continue to resonate, offering a glimpse into the soul of an artist who left an unforgettable mark on country music.