Lukas Nelson Honors Kris Kristofferson With Stunning “Lovin’ Her Was Easier” Tribute One Year After His Passing
September 28, 2025, marked one year since the world said goodbye to one of country music’s greatest poets — Kris Kristofferson. The legendary Texan, who passed away at 88, left behind not only a towering musical legacy but also a life story that reads like a novel — soldier, scholar, songwriter, and soul searcher.
To commemorate the first anniversary of his passing, Lukas Nelson, son of Kristofferson’s longtime friend and Highwaymen bandmate Willie Nelson, paid tribute in the most fitting way possible: through song.
A Songwriter Honors a Songwriter
During the opening night of his American Romance Tour in Austin, Texas, Lukas performed a breathtaking rendition of Kristofferson’s classic “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again)”.
Originally written and released in 1971 for The Silver Tongued Devil and I, the song is one of Kristofferson’s most beloved works — a tender reflection on love, loss, and the fleeting beauty of connection. Though it was never a major country radio single, it still reached No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart, later becoming a favorite for artists like Waylon Jennings, Roger Miller, and Mark Chesnutt.
Lukas’ stripped-down performance, accompanied only by his guitar, recaptured the quiet sincerity that made Kristofferson’s writing timeless. “Night one of the #AmericanRomance tour paying tribute to my dear friend, Kris, on the anniversary of his passing,” the 36-year-old singer wrote in his caption.
Fans React With Emotion
The performance immediately resonated with fans online, many calling it one of Lukas’ most moving moments to date.
“What a beautiful tribute and a perfect performance. Kris would be deeply touched,” one fan commented.
Another added:
“This is the prettiest thing I have ever heard you sing — the guitar is perfect, beautiful tempo, and soft in all the right places… your voice strong or tender exactly where it should be. Really, quite a special performance. Kris would, I think, be proud.”
Remembering a Mentor and Friend
Lukas’ connection to Kristofferson ran deep. Growing up in the Nelson family meant he was surrounded by the greats — but few left as lasting an impression as Kris.
After Kristofferson’s death in 2024, Lukas penned a heartfelt tribute to the man he called his “greatest inspiration,” second only to his father.
“Kris embodied humility and kindness,” Lukas wrote. “He carried his grace into his words and music with unique eloquence. He was a great among greats. One of the coolest men in music — strong and fierce, with a gentleman’s soul.”
He went on to celebrate Kristofferson’s boundless curiosity and courage:
“A Rhodes scholar who left the Oxford life to be a seeker. He was an aviator, and an inventor of phrases. Kris could land anywhere, and did.”
In closing, Lukas shared words that summed up not only his admiration but also the deep personal bond they shared:
“I grew up with him and his family. I love them, I love him, and I always will.”
A Legacy That Lives On
As Lukas Nelson stood under the Austin lights, strumming one of Kristofferson’s most cherished ballads, it was clear that the spirit of the legendary songwriter still lingers — not just in his timeless lyrics, but in the voices of those who carry his music forward.
Because for artists like Lukas — and fans everywhere — lovin’ him was easier than saying goodbye.
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