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
Risky Bizness
Kris Kristofferson Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
You can use your chosen tools and I'll choose mine
I'm afraid we've gone and laid it on the line it's a risky bizness
Oh in the garden time to go show them crazies who's the one who runs the show
While they gamble in your corner for your robe it's a risky bizness
And the best that you can do is buy some time till they can find somebody better
It don't matter what they call you
When you know you've been the best that you could be
Till they nail you with some double-cross again it's a risky bizness
Kris Kristofferson's song "Risky Bizness" is about the inherent dangers of being a professional boxer. The first lines of the song refer to the gloves used in a championship fight and the fact that both boxers have chosen their preferred tools for the fight. The title fight is a high-stakes event, and the boxers have laid it all on the line. The lyrics a reflection of how the title fight is not just physically risky but also a risky business, as the losers face significant financial loss and the winners often face potential backlash and disappointment.
The second and third verses of the song go on to talk about the feeling of being in the ring and facing off against an opponent. The lyrics express the feelings of anxiety and apprehension, as well as the need for mental and physical toughness to come out on top. There is also a sense of rivalry and competition, as boxers compete to prove who is the best.
The final verse of the song is a reflection on the boxer's career and acknowledges the constant threat of being replaced by someone better. The lyrics suggest that the best that a boxer can hope for is to buy some time before being replaced by the next rising star. The song's message is that life as a boxer is a high-risk, high-reward business, where success is often fleeting, and even the most talented boxers must face the end of their careers.
Line by Line Meaning
Eight ounce gloves now it's title time
The match is about to begin, as evidenced by the smaller gloves required for the fight.
You can use your chosen tools and I'll choose mine
Each fighter has their own preferred tactics and strategies for winning the match.
I'm afraid we've gone and laid it on the line it's a risky bizness
The fighter realizes that the high-stakes match is a risky venture which could result in serious injury or career-ending consequences.
Oh in the garden time to go show them crazies who's the one who runs the show
The fighter is determined to prove their worth and show the world that they are in charge of their own destiny.
While they gamble in your corner for your robe it's a risky bizness
Even those supporting the fighter can be swayed by money and greed, making the fight even more dangerous and unpredictable.
And the best that you can do is buy some time till they can find somebody better
The fighter knows that eventually they will be replaced, and that their current success is temporary.
It don't matter what they call you
Regardless of what others may think or say, the fighter's self-worth and confidence is not affected.
When you know you've been the best that you could be
The fighter is content knowing they gave their all and did their best, regardless of the outcome.
Give 'em hell boy while you can make 'em fight to take the title you defend
The fighter is determined to hold onto their championship title, even if it means fighting with ferocity and aggression.
Till they nail you with some double-cross again it's a risky bizness
The fighter is aware that there may be dishonest or unfair tactics employed against them during the match, making the venture all the more dangerous and unpredictable.
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, MIKE UTLEY, STEPHEN BRUTON
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind