About The Song
In the storied and rebellious catalog of Kris Kristofferson, Gettin’ By, High, and Strange, released in 1972 on the album Jesus Was a Capricorn, roars as a rollicking anthem of defiance and carefree living, capturing the essence of his outlaw country soul. Written by Kristofferson, this high-energy track blends gritty humor with a devil-may-care attitude, showcasing his knack for crafting songs that resonate with the free-spirited and the restless. For those who cherish music’s power to celebrate life’s unpolished moments, this song is a raucous joyride, evoking memories of late nights and the thrill of living on the edge. Its upbeat tempo and Kristofferson’s rugged vocals strike a deep chord with mature listeners, who may recall its release on Monument Records or its spirited echo in his live performances.
The song kicks off with a lively acoustic guitar riff and a pounding drumbeat, produced by Dennis Linde with a raw, barroom energy that sets the stage for a wild tale. Kristofferson’s baritone, gravelly and mischievous, carries a roguish charm as he sings, “I’m gettin’ by, high, and strange / Ain’t no way I’m gonna change.” The arrangement, featuring Donnie Fritts’ rollicking piano and Charlie McCoy’s harmonica, pulses with a loose, celebratory vibe, as if played in a smoky honky-tonk. For those who first heard it on a 1972 vinyl or caught Kristofferson’s early ‘70s shows, it’s a nostalgic bridge to an era when his songwriting, hailed as “fearlessly authentic” in a Rolling Stone review, redefined country’s boundaries.
Lyrically, Gettin’ By, High, and Strange is a bold declaration of living unapologetically: “I’m livin’ fast and feelin’ fine / Chasin’ dreams and wastin’ time.” The verses weave a tale of a wanderer embracing life’s chaos, with lines like “I’m runnin’ wild and livin’ free / Ain’t no jail gonna hold me” exuding a rebellious streak. For older listeners, who may have chased their own moments of freedom or savored the reckless joys of youth, the song’s irreverent spirit offers a vibrant reflection on living true to oneself. Its playful defiance, as noted on Genius, resonates with the universal urge to break free from convention, making it a timeless ode to the rogue’s life.
Musically, the track is a masterclass in outlaw country swagger, blending folk-rock energy with Kristofferson’s raw charisma, drawing parallels to Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash. The Jesus Was a Capricorn album, peaking at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums, was a commercial and critical triumph, with Gettin’ By as a fan-favorite track, later included in The Essential Kris Kristofferson. For fans who’ve followed Kristofferson’s journey—from Me and Bobby McGee to his 2016 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction—this song is a fiery chapter, reflecting his untamed heart. Whether rediscovered on a worn LP or streaming today, Gettin’ By, High, and Strange invites you to crank up the volume and join its wild ride, a melody that lingers like the rush of a night well-lived.
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