Rita Coolidge Reflects on Her Marriage to Kris Kristofferson

Rita Coolidge, the Grammy-winning singer known for her soulful voice and genre-spanning hits, has spoken openly about her marriage to fellow music legend Kris Kristofferson. Their relationship, both personal and professional, was one of deep connection, remarkable collaboration, and profound challenges that shaped both of their lives and careers.

A Serendipitous Meeting

Their story began in 1970 at Los Angeles International Airport. Both were traveling to Tennessee and, by chance, found themselves seated next to each other on the flight. Coolidge later recalled this encounter as “love at first flight”, remembering how they spoke the entire journey to Memphis. That fateful meeting sparked a romance that led to their marriage in 1973.

Musical Collaboration and Acclaim

As a couple, Coolidge and Kristofferson became a powerhouse duo in the music industry. They recorded several duet albums, including Full Moon (1973) and Natural Act (1978), which highlighted their vocal chemistry and mutual artistic respect. Their partnership earned them two Grammy Awards for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal — first for “From the Bottle to the Bottom” in 1974 and again for “Lover Please” in 1976.

But behind the accolades, their personal lives grew increasingly difficult. In her memoir Delta Lady, Coolidge reflected on the challenges they faced — Kristofferson’s struggles with alcoholism and infidelity, the pressures of fame, and the emotional turbulence that followed. She described their marriage as “volatile”, and despite their strong connection, the strain eventually led to their divorce in 1980.

Enduring Connection and Legacy

Despite the end of their marriage, Coolidge has always spoken of Kristofferson with deep respect and affection. In interviews, she has called him a “wonderful man” and an “extraordinary songwriter”, acknowledging both his artistry and the bond they shared. Together, they had one daughter, Casey Kristofferson, born in 1974, who has since followed her parents into the world of music.

Looking back, Coolidge has paid tribute to the lasting influence Kristofferson had on her life, both personally and professionally. Their story remains one of the most poignant love-and-loss tales in music history — a reminder that even relationships marked by turbulence can leave behind enduring respect, artistic triumphs, and a legacy carried forward through family and song.