Welcome to Formative Jukebox, a column exploring the personal relationships people have with music. Every week, a writer will tackle a song, album, show, or musical artist and their influence on our ...

Roger Miller was the first artist to record "Me and Bobby McGee" on May 16, 1969. His version reached No. 12 on the country ...

Kris Kristofferson once told Creg Lovett at Houston Press: “I always feel like Houston is the place I play that’s closest to my favorite place on Earth.” His favorite place on earth was his hometown, ...

Over half a century since her sudden death at the age of 27, Janis Joplin's loss remains one of the most tragic in rock history. Particularly heartbreaking is the fact that the iconic singer recorded ...

The unexpected origins of Kris Kristofferson's classic song its inspiration, and how Janis Joplin's powerful cover made it a No. 1 hit.

Janis Joplin’s version of “Me and Bobby McGee” was released on Jan. 12, 1971. One day earlier, a Food Stamp Amendment was passed, establishing uniform work requirements for eligibility. “Busted flat,” ...

In the wake of the loss of another musical legend, pop star Pink has whipped out another impressive tribute. "I think Kris Kristofferson was one of the most amazing humans and I was obsessed—I am ...

Janis Joplinwasn't merely a singer and songwriter — she was a beacon of unrestrained emotion and indomitable expression. From soul-moving songs such as "Piece of My Heart" and "Me and Bobby McGee" to ...