About The Song
Somebody Nobody Knows by Kris Kristofferson: A Song of Loneliness and Invisibility
In the realm of country music, Kris Kristofferson stands as a towering figure, a songwriter’s songwriter, and a poet whose lyrics have resonated with generations of listeners. His songs are often marked by their profound depth, their exploration of the human condition, and their ability to capture the complexities of life with both tenderness and grit. Among his many acclaimed compositions, “Somebody Nobody Knows” stands out as a particularly poignant and evocative piece, a ballad that delves into the profound loneliness and invisibility experienced by those who exist on the margins of society.
Released in 1972 as part of Kristofferson’s album Border Lord, “Somebody Nobody Knows” is a hauntingly beautiful song that paints a vivid picture of individuals who are overlooked, forgotten, and seemingly invisible to the world around them. The lyrics, penned by Kristofferson himself, are imbued with a profound sense of empathy and understanding, capturing the isolation and despair that can accompany such an existence.
The song opens with a gentle guitar strumming and Kristofferson’s weathered vocals, setting the stage for a narrative that unfolds with a quiet intensity. He introduces us to the song’s protagonist, a nameless individual who blends seamlessly into the background, their presence unnoticed and their existence seemingly inconsequential. “Who cares if she comes or she goes,” Kristofferson sings, “Just a soul in the shadows the world never sees.”
As the song progresses, the lyrics delve deeper into the emotional landscape of the protagonist, revealing a profound sense of loneliness and longing for connection. “She’s somebody nobody knows,” Kristofferson sings, his voice laced with a palpable sadness. “He’s somebody nobody knows. Someone no one’s ever known.”
The imagery employed throughout the song is striking and evocative, painting a picture of a world where individuals can be so easily overlooked and forgotten. “Crying where no one can hear,” Kristofferson sings, “Somebody’s dying alone. In a city where nobody cares.”
The chorus, with its simple yet powerful refrain, further underscores the song’s central message: “Somebody nobody knows.” It is a stark reminder of the countless individuals who walk among us, their presence unnoticed, their stories untold, their existence seemingly insignificant in the grand scheme of things.
Yet, amidst the desolation, there is a glimmer of hope, a suggestion that even in the darkest corners of society, there is a possibility for connection and understanding. The song’s final verse offers a poignant plea for empathy and compassion: “Won’t you take a moment to see? Somebody nobody knows.”
“Somebody Nobody Knows” is a song that lingers long after the last note has faded, a poignant reminder of the invisible lives that exist all around us. It is a testament to Kris Kristofferson’s songwriting prowess, his ability to capture the depths of human emotion and shine a light on the often-overlooked corners of the human experience.