Rita Coolidge: Behind the Fame of Kris Kristofferson’s Ex-Wife and Their Devastating Loss
Inside the Life of Kris Kristofferson’s Ex-wife, Rita Coolidge — The Pair Tragically Lost Their Second Child
Rita Coolidge has accomplished a lot in her life, from being a household name in music throughout the 1970s to overcoming personal tragedy, such as the death of a child while she was married to Kris Kristofferson. She is still captivating followers in her late 70s, as they are in awe of her ageless elegance and beauty.
Rita Coolidge’s rise to prominence started when she relocated to Memphis in the late 1960s and began providing backing vocals for Bonnie Bramlett and Delaney. She performed with some of the biggest names in music, such as Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and Stephen Stills, due to her extraordinary vocal talent.
She moved to Los Angeles and quickly rose to fame as a vocalist, contributing to many memorable records and live performances in the 1970s. She signed a solo contract with A&M Records in 1971 after showcasing her unmistakable skill, and the label issued her self-titled debut album.
Despite its initial lack of economic success, it solidified her reputation as a well-respected artist in the field. After marrying the legendary country music performer Kris Kristofferson in 1973, Coolidge’s career took off.
Combining their skills on stage and in the recording studio, they went on to become one of the most renowned pairs in the music industry. For their joint efforts on “From the Bottle to the Bottom” in 1974 and “Lover Please” in 1976, the pair was honored with two Grammy Awards.
Even with their career successes, they had several problems in their relationship. Later, when Coolidge thought back on their marriage, she acknowledged that although she never meant to portray Kristofferson negatively, their problems were evident.
Their connection was immediate when they first met in 1971 during a journey from Los Angeles to Memphis; Kristofferson would later refer to their encounter as “love at first flight.”
Upon landing, Kristofferson got off with Coolidge rather than going to Nashville, where he had a business commitment. That evening, we had decided on a name for our first kid before turning in for the night. I knew without a doubt that we would be together,” Coolidge recounted.
Early in their relationship, the couple’s chemistry carried over into their work life as well as their personal ones. Coolidge and Kristofferson enthralled listeners with their harmonies and mutual love of music when they performed and recorded together.
But when Kristofferson’s acting career took off, their marital discord increased. Coolidge vehemently refuted the accusations made by critics that she had hitched herself to Kristofferson’s wagon. “He didn’t have any hit records when Kris and I were touring. Yes, I did. Both in our careers and in our relationship, we were equals,” she remarked.
Additionally, Coolidge was open about the emotional cost of their private lives. Kristofferson was not at the recording studio since he was getting offers for movies while she was recording music.
In addition, Coolidge claimed that Kristofferson minimized her abilities and mistreated her emotionally. “He might think I treated him badly. Not that I was, I think. It wasn’t always like that. I sobbed every day because it was enough, and that’s not a healthy way to live,” she admitted.
During their years together, the couple welcomed a daughter, Casey, but their relationship deteriorated due to their problems, especially after the devastating death of their second child.
Their marriage eventually ended in divorce in 1980 after reaching a breaking point. Coolidge made the decision to concentrate on advancing her profession and raising their daughter rather than making any requests in the settlement.
“I didn’t feel I was doing her any favors by going the distance when clearly her parents were not in harmony,” said Coolidge. Coolidge claimed that despite their turbulent marriage, she and Kristofferson remained connected in a unique way that persisted even after their divorce.
“Kris and I have a connection and we laugh at stuff that nobody else gets,” she reminisced of their friendship in 2016. We simply share a connection that defies comprehension.” In response to the question of whether or not they would collaborate on music again, she grinned and said, “Never say never.”
At the age of 88, Kristofferson tragically departed away on September 28, 2024. He passed away quietly at home in Maui, surrounded by his loved ones. After his death, his family released a poignant letter thanking him for the time they had together.
We’re so fortunate to have had this time with him. In their announcement, they stated, “Thank you for loving him for all these years, and know that when you see a rainbow, he’s smiling down at us all.” Check out Rita Coolidge’s incredible career progression to see how the 79-year-old has changed over time.
The 1970s
The 1980s
The 1990s
the 2000s
2010s
2020s
Social media fans have complimented Rita Coolidge in recent years for her grace and ageless beauty. The Grammy-winning artist’s ageing looks astounded fans, and many also remarked on how graceful she looked.
One social media user remarked of the legendary performer, who was still traveling well into her 60s, “You look great!” Another person typed, “You are such a beautiful lady and such a talent.” “Rita looks great!” said a third.
Rita Coolidge has seen both great success and personal adversity throughout her life. Her relationship with Kris Kristofferson and her acclaimed singing career have been fraught with difficulties, one of which was the death of their second child. She’s still regarded as a prominent person in the music business, though.
