ABOUT THE SONG
The Haunting Beauty of Kris Kristofferson & Rita Coolidge – Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends (1978)
Some songs have a way of capturing the bittersweet nature of love and life, and Kris Kristofferson & Rita Coolidge – Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends (1978) is a perfect example. This heartfelt ballad, originally written by Kristofferson and first recorded in the early 1970s, found new life in this unforgettable duet with his then-wife, the incredibly talented Rita Coolidge. Their voices blend in a way that feels deeply personal, as if they are singing directly from the heart, making this version of the song one of the most poignant ever recorded.
At its core, Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends (1978) is a song about uncertainty and the fragile beauty of a fleeting moment. It speaks to that feeling of not wanting to face the inevitable—of knowing that something wonderful may be slipping away, yet desperately wishing to hold onto it for just a little longer. This theme is universal, touching anyone who has ever experienced the sadness of knowing that even the most beautiful moments are not meant to last forever.
Musically, the song is a masterpiece of restraint. The gentle instrumentation—soft piano, warm guitar, and subtle strings—creates an intimate backdrop that allows the emotion in Kristofferson and Coolidge’s voices to take center stage. Kristofferson’s rugged, soulful delivery pairs perfectly with Coolidge’s smooth, emotive tone, creating a harmony that is both tender and heartbreaking. Their chemistry is undeniable, making every line of the song feel authentic and deeply felt.
What makes this rendition of Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends (1978) so special is its honesty. Kristofferson has always been a master of storytelling, and in this duet, he and Coolidge bring the lyrics to life in a way that feels real and lived-in. There’s no need for dramatic flourishes or over-the-top production—their voices and the song’s simple yet powerful lyrics are enough to leave a lasting impression.
For those who appreciate music that speaks to the soul, Kris Kristofferson & Rita Coolidge – Please Don’t Tell Me How the Story Ends (1978) is a song worth revisiting. It reminds us of the beauty found in fleeting moments and the emotions that come with knowing that every story, no matter how wonderful, must eventually find its ending—even if we wish it wouldn’t.