Introduction:
Released in 1970, the country soul ballad, Help Me Make It Through The Night, became a breakout hit for both singers, Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson. The song, written by Kristofferson himself, features a melancholic plea from a narrator yearning for solace and comfort during a difficult time.
Help Me Make It Through The Night emerged during a period of significant creative output for Kristofferson. By 1 1970, he had already established himself as a rising songwriter, having penned hits for artists like Johnny Cash (“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down”) and Bobby Bare (“Me and Bobby McGee”). However, Kristofferson was yet to achieve mainstream success as a recording artist. Help Me Make It Through The Night would change that.
The song’s path to success began with producer Chips Moman. Moman, known for his work with Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin at American Studios in Memphis, was impressed by Kristofferson’s songwriting and brought him to the label A&M Records. Moman would also produce Help Me Make It Through The Night.
For the recording, Kristofferson’s vocals were paired with the soulful harmonies of Rita Coolidge, his then-partner (they would be married from 1973 to 1979). Coolidge, a talented singer in her own right, had already found success as a backing vocalist for artists like Jimi Hendrix and Joe Tex. Her voice would become an integral part of Help Me Make It Through The Night, adding a layer of vulnerability and yearning that resonated with listeners.
Help Me Make It Through The Night incorporates a gentle melody with prominent piano and string arrangements. The melancholic tone is evident from the opening lines, “Fallin’ soft against my skin / Like the shadows on the wall,” as the narrator pleads for companionship through a long and lonely night. The song’s emotional core lies in its universal longing for connection and comfort in a time of hardship.
Help Me Make It Through The Night was a critical and commercial success. The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying Kristofferson’s reputation as a country artist. It also crossed over to the pop charts, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s impact was further cemented by a Grammy nomination for Best Country Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group.
Help Me Make It Through The Night remains a beloved country duet. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and U2. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of Kristofferson’s songwriting and the unforgettable vocal chemistry between Coolidge and Kristofferson.