Back in 2016, Nashville hosted a special concert called The Life & Songs of Kris Kristofferson — a night dedicated to celebrating the life, legacy, and incredible music of one of country’s greatest storytellers. The lineup was stacked with legends like Willie Nelson, Eric Church, Emmylou Harris, and Rosanne Cash, but one performance stood out and left the crowd buzzing: Reba McEntire’s fiery take on “Me and Bobby McGee.”

Reba and Kris shared a friendship that stretched back many years, something she made clear when she later honored him on Instagram after his passing on September 28. She wrote, “What a gentleman, kind soul, and a lover of words. Rest in peace, Kris.” It was more than just a tribute — it was a farewell from one artist to another she deeply admired.

When it came time to choose her song that night, Reba’s pick was no accident. She told CMT that “Me and Bobby McGee” had been one of her favorites for decades. “It’s just a gypsy song,” she explained, “and I’ve always kind of thought of myself as a gypsy. I love that song.”

On stage, Reba gave the classic tune a whole new energy. Where Kristofferson’s original was thoughtful and slow, she amped it up with her signature fire — turning it into a spirited blend of country and rock ’n’ roll. The crowd felt every ounce of her passion, and even though she transformed the song, the heart of Kristofferson’s writing still shone through.

To make the moment even more special, Reba turned it into a duet with Kris himself. The sight of the two of them sharing the stage was pure magic — a mix of respect, friendship, and joy. It felt like his personal stamp of approval, and fans couldn’t get enough.

Looking back, that performance has only grown more meaningful since Kristofferson’s passing. It wasn’t just a cover — it was a celebration of his spirit, his music, and the way he made everyone feel like part of his story. For anyone who loved Kris, watching Reba light up the stage with “Me and Bobby McGee” is a bittersweet but beautiful reminder of just how deeply he touched the world of country music.