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Introduction
Kris Kristofferson is known for his sharp, thought-provoking songwriting, and The Law Is For The Protection Of The People is one of those tracks that hits you hard and leaves you thinking long after the final chord fades. It’s a song that’s not just meant to be listened to, but felt—one that sparks an emotional reaction and a deeper reflection on society’s values. Kristofferson’s brilliance lies in his ability to craft stories that resonate universally, and this particular song is a perfect example of that talent.
When you first dive into The Law Is For The Protection Of The People, it sounds deceptively simple. The melody flows like many other country-folk tunes, and his delivery is almost conversational, making it seem like a straightforward narrative. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover layers of irony, social commentary, and biting satire. Kristofferson has always been known for pushing boundaries, challenging norms, and forcing listeners to confront uncomfortable truths—and this song is no different.
The lyrics tell the story of a seemingly petty crime—a man arrested for “disturbing the peace” while protesting or expressing dissent. But as the song unfolds, you realize it’s about more than just a single man’s transgression. It’s a poignant critique of how the law can sometimes be wielded not for justice, but to maintain order at any cost—to keep the “good people” safe from those who don’t fit neatly into society’s expectations. The phrase “protection of the people” drips with sarcasm as Kristofferson paints a picture of a system more interested in preserving appearances than in upholding true justice.
The song’s impact is amplified by Kristofferson’s raw, unpolished vocal style. He’s not trying to sweeten the message or make it palatable. Instead, he lays it bare, letting his voice carry the weight of frustration and disillusionment. It’s like he’s sitting next to you, looking you straight in the eye and daring you to think about what he’s saying. And while the song was written in the early 1970s, its themes feel chillingly relevant today. Issues of civil rights, freedom of expression, and the misuse of authority are still very much at the forefront of societal debates.
Musically, The Law Is For The Protection Of The People is stripped-down and straightforward, with a traditional folk structure that makes it accessible but also serves to keep the focus squarely on the lyrics. The subtle instrumentation—simple acoustic strumming, a steady rhythm—gives it the feel of a campfire song, one that you could imagine Kristofferson playing casually, almost off-handedly, while discussing politics with a friend. But the song’s simplicity is deceptive; it makes the biting message all the more potent.
Listening to The Law Is For The Protection Of The People today, it’s hard not to feel a pang of recognition. Kristofferson’s storytelling holds a mirror up to society, revealing the uncomfortable truth that sometimes, the law isn’t about justice—it’s about control. He turns what could have been just another protest song into something timeless, universal, and deeply personal. In true Kristofferson fashion, he leaves us with more questions than answers, challenging us to look at the world a little more critically and to question the systems we often take for granted.
Video
Lyrics
Billy Dalton staggered on the sidewalk
Someone said he stumbled and he fell
Six squad cars came screaming to the rescue
Hauled old Billy Dalton off to jail
‘Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules are rules and any fool can see
We don’t need no drunks like Billy Dalton
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree
Charlie Watson wandered like a stranger
Showing he had no means of support
Police man took one look at his pants cuffs
Hustled Charlie Watson off to court.
‘Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules are rules and any fool can see
We don’t need no bums like Charlie Watson
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree.
Homer Lee Hunnicut was nothing but a hippy
Walking thru this world without a care
Then one day, six strapping brave policeman
Held down Homer Lee and cut his hair
‘Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules are rules and any foola can see
We don’t need no hairy headed hippies
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree
So thank your lucky stars you’ve got protection
Walk the line, and never mind the cost
And don’t wonder who them lawmen was protecting
When they nailed the savior to the cross.
‘Cause the law is for protection of the people
Rules are rules and any fool can see
We don’t need no riddle speaking prophets
Scarin’ decent folks like you and me, no siree…