Rita Coolidge: A Life of Music and Love

Rita Coolidge, a prominent name in the American music industry, is known for her unique ability to transcend musical genres, achieving success across Billboard’s country, pop, contemporary, and jazz charts. Born on May 1, 1945, in Lafayette, Tennessee, Coolidge grew up in a musical family where singing was as integral to life as breathing. “I was singing close harmony with my sisters in church when I was two,” she told Indian Artist magazine, highlighting the role music played in her early life.

After completing her studies at Florida State University, Coolidge moved to Memphis, where she embarked on her music career, performing in a folk group and recording in studios. Her talent soon led her to work with notable artists such as Eric Clapton and George Harrison. In 1969, she released her debut album, ‘Turn Around And Love You.’

Her personal and professional life took a significant turn when she met Kris Kristofferson in 1970 at Los Angeles Airport. Their meeting was serendipitous, leading to a marriage in 1973 characterized by both tremendous musical collaboration and personal challenges. The couple released several hit albums, including their Grammy-winning works ‘From The Bottle To The Bottom‘ and ‘Lover Please.’

Despite their professional success, Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson experienced a tumultuous marriage, leading to their divorce in 1980. In her 2016 memoir ‘Delta Lady,’ Coolidge reflected on the challenges of their relationship, discussing Kristofferson’s struggles with alcoholism and infidelity. “Our marriage was volatile,” Coolidge admitted in a 2019 interview, while also expressing deep admiration for Kristofferson’s songwriting abilities.

Coolidge’s career did not falter post-divorce. She achieved solo success with hits like ‘We're All Alone‘ and the James Bond theme ‘All Time High.’ In the 1990s, she formed the group Walela with her sister Priscilla and niece Laura Satterfield, gaining further acclaim.

Tragically, in 2014, Coolidge’s sister Priscilla was killed in an act of murder-suicide. “She was like my twin,” Coolidge said in a heartfelt tribute, expressing the profound loss she felt.