The recent passing of Kris Kristofferson has brought back memories of his remarkable life and career. One person who was deeply affected by this news is Rita Coolidge, Kristofferson’s ex-wife and a music icon in her own right. At 79 years old, Coolidge remains a stunning beauty, and her fans can’t help but marvel at how well she has aged.
Coolidge’s journey to stardom began in the 1960s, when she moved to Memphis and started working as a backup vocalist for Delaney and Bonnie Bramlett. Her incredible voice quickly earned her a spot performing with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, and Stephen Stills.
After relocating to Los Angeles, Coolidge became a sought-after singer, signing with A&M Records and releasing her self-titled debut album in 1971. Although the album wasn’t a commercial success, it did garner her some respect within the industry. Her career got another boost when she married Kris Kristofferson in 1973.
The couple’s collaboration was both personal and professional, resulting in two Grammy wins for “From the Bottle to the Bottom” in 1974 and “Lover Please” in 1976. Despite their professional success, the couple faced many challenges in their personal lives. Coolidge has spoken candidly about the emotional abuse she suffered during their marriage and the strain that Kristofferson’s acting career put on their relationship.
The couple welcomed a daughter, Casey, during their time together, but lost their second child, which put a significant strain on their relationship. By 1980, their marriage had reached its breaking point, leading to their divorce. Coolidge decided to focus on her own career, choosing not to seek a settlement so she could move on more easily.
Despite their divorce, Coolidge and Kristofferson maintained a special bond, with Coolidge describing their connection as “beyond any kind of understanding.” Even after Kristofferson’s passing on September 28, 2024, Coolidge remains a testament to the enduring power of their relationship.
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In recent years, fans have been impressed by how well Coolidge has maintained herself. Her social media is filled with comments from fans who can’t help but admire her timeless beauty. Coolidge has also continued to tour well into her 60s, showcasing her incredible talent and dedication to her craft.
As we look back on Rita Coolidge’s remarkable life and legacy, it’s clear that she remains an icon in every sense of the word. Her beauty, talent, and resilience continue to inspire fans around the world, and her story serves as a reminder that true legends never fade away.
