Farewell To Kris Kristofferson: The Man, The Music, The Myth

10. Scholar of Rhodes: He is a Texas native who graduated with a master's from Oxford.

9. Turned Down West Point: Rejected a prestigious teaching position in favor of songwriting.

8. Hit song writer for Columbia Records Janitor, who worked part-time in Nashville.

7. Song titles that marked their breakthrough include "Me and Bobby McGee" and "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down."

6. Support from Johnny Cash: Cash's friendship helped him start his career.

5. Starred in movies such as Blade and A Star Is Born to achieve Hollywood stardom.

4. Grammy-Winning Duets: Rita Coolidge and I had a successful musical collaboration.

3. Willie Nelson's Praise: Willie Nelson has been said to as the greatest songwriter.

2. Retired in 2021: After 50 years, gave up performing.

1. Durable Legacy: Generations after generation are inspired by his music and movies.