In 1985, Kristofferson joined fellow country artists Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash in forming the country music supergroup The Highwaymen, and formed a key creative force in the outlaw country music movement that eschewed the Nashville music machine in favor of independent songwriting and producing. In 2004, Kristofferson was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. As an actor, he is known for his roles in Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (1973), Blume in Love (1973), Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974), A Star Is Born (1976) (which earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor), Convoy (1978), Heaven's Gate (1980) and Blade (1998).
Kristofferson has said that he would like the first three lines of Leonard Cohen's "Bird on the Wire" on his tombstone:
Like a bird on the wire
Like a drunk in a midnight choir
I have tried in my way to be free
Bandits of Beverly Hills
Kris Kristofferson Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
They'd never need to explain
He was a bandit behind his behavior
She was precisely the same
Laughing and dancing those gay cabralleros
They looked so wild and so free
She likes him a little light on the loafers
But bless his heart, so does he .
Chorus:
And he covers for her and she covers for him
If it's wild and they want to they will
But the dangers are real and the chances are slim
And there ain't nothing cheap but the thrill
In the badlands of beverly hills.
He had a mustache that made him look macho
And she wore a mole on her cheek
Making the run around rodeo avenue
Dancing boutique to boutique
And the truth is a question with too many answers
And so hard to face on your own
Beauty is only as deep as the skin
Ugly goes clear to the bone.
Chorus:
And he covers for her and she covers for him
If it's wild and they want to they will
But the dangers are real and the chances are slim
And there ain't nothing cheap but the thrill
In the badlands of beverly hills.
The lyrics of Kris Kristofferson's song "Bandits of Beverly Hills" dive deep into the dynamic of a forbidden love affair between two individuals who are both considered societal outlaws. The opening lines, "They knew the moment their eyes came together, they'd never need to explain" immediately sets the tone for an instant connection and understanding between the two characters. Despite being perceived as "bandits" due to their unconventional behaviors, they find solace and acceptance in each other's company.
The male character is described as a "bandit behind his behavior," suggesting that he may be rebellious or unconventional in his actions. The female character is portrayed as being "precisely the same," highlighting their similarities and shared defiance of societal norms. The carefree and spirited nature of their relationship is captured through their laughter and dancing, emphasizing their wild and free-spirited lifestyle.
The chorus of the song brings attention to the loyalty and mutual support that the couple provides for each other. They have each other's backs, regardless of the risks involved in their clandestine romance. The line "If it's wild and they want to they will" conveys their determination to live life on their own terms, despite the potential dangers and consequences they face. The thrill of rebellion and excitement seems to be what drives them forward in their relationship.
The song also delves into the complexities of beauty and perception, suggesting that true beauty lies beyond physical appearance. The mention of the man's mustache and the woman's mole highlights their unique traits that set them apart from conventional standards of attractiveness. The lyrics hint at the struggles they face in a world that judges them based on superficial qualities, contrasting the idea of beauty with the deeper, uglier truths that lie beneath the surface. Overall, "Bandits of Beverly Hills" paints a vivid picture of two individuals who find solace and excitement in their unconventional love story, despite the challenges they face in a judgmental society.
Line by Line Meaning
The knew the moment their eyes came together
They instantly understood their connection upon making eye contact
They'd never need to explain
There was an unspoken understanding between them
He was a bandit behind his behavior
He was a rebel who acted against societal norms
She was precisely the same
She also defied conventions with her actions
Laughing and dancing those gay cabralleros
They joyfully embraced their carefree lifestyle
They looked so wild and so free
Their appearance reflected their liberated and adventurous nature
She likes him a little light on the loafers
She appreciates his flamboyant and unconventional personality
But bless his heart, so does he
He also embraces his unique identity with pride
He had a mustache that made him look macho
His mustache gave him a masculine appearance
And she wore a mole on her cheek
She had a distinctive feature that set her apart
Making the run around rodeo avenue
Being active and exploring the upscale area of Rodeo Drive
Dancing boutique to boutique
Moving from one high-end store to another, enjoying the luxury lifestyle
And the truth is a question with too many answers
Reality is complex and subjective, with multiple interpretations
And so hard to face on your own
It can be challenging to confront reality without support
Beauty is only as deep as the skin
Physical attractiveness is superficial and temporary
Ugly goes clear to the bone
Inner ugliness is more significant and enduring than outward appearance
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
borderlord
After dealing with some in Hollywood,he knew how to write a good tune about some of those types!
Eric Anderson
funny, after all those years they're finally doing a motion picture together "Joyful Noise" due out in 2012 or later this year.