“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is a country song written by Kris Kristofferson and recorded by several artists, most notably by Johnny Cash. It was released in 1970 on Kristofferson’s album Kristofferson and on Cash’s album Man in Black. The song was a major hit for Cash, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in December 1970. It also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song is a country ballad. The song’s narrator tells the story of a man who is hungover and regretful after a night of drinking. He sings of how he is ashamed of himself and how he wishes he could start the day over.
The song’s melody is simple but effective, and the production is sparse and atmospheric. Kristofferson’s vocals are world-weary and regretful, and he delivers the song with his trademark honesty and sincerity.
Background and recording
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” was written by Kris Kristofferson, who was a country singer, songwriter, and actor. Kristofferson wrote the song in the late 1960s, and it was inspired by his own experiences with hangovers and regret.
Kristofferson recorded the song in 1970, and it was released on his album Kristofferson. The song was also recorded by Johnny Cash in 1970, and it was released on his album Man in Black. Cash’s version of the song was a major hit, and it helped to introduce Kristofferson’s music to a wider audience.
Release and reception
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” was released in 1970. The song quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in December 1970. It also crossed over to the pop charts, peaking at number 46 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
The song was a critical and commercial success. It was praised by critics for its beautiful melody, honest lyrics, and Kristofferson’s heartfelt performance. The song was also a major hit with fans, and it helped to solidify Kristofferson’s status as one of the biggest country music stars of the era.
Legacy
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is a classic country ballad that has stood the test of time. It is a beautiful and timeless song that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The song is a testament to Kristofferson’s talent as a singer and a songwriter, and it is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.
In addition to its commercial success, “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” has also been recognized for its cultural significance. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, and it was named one of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” by Rolling Stone magazine in 2004.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. It is a song that speaks to the heart, and it is a song that offers hope and redemption. “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is a classic country ballad that is sure to be enjoyed by fans for many years to come.
Other notable recordings
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” has been covered by many artists over the years. Some of the most notable covers include:
- Ray Stevens (1970)
- The Oak Ridge Boys (1972)
- Willie Nelson (1978)
- Joan Baez (1980)
- June Carter Cash (1999)
Kristofferson’s version of the song remains the definitive one, but these other covers are all worth listening to.
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” has also been adapted into a television movie and a short film. The television movie, which was released in 1972, starred Kristofferson as the man. The short film, which was released in 2017, was directed by Kristofferson’s son, John Kristofferson.
“Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” is a beautiful and timeless song that continues to inspire and uplift people around the world. It is a song about hangovers, regret, hope, and redemption. It is a song that is sure to be enjoyed for generations to come.