“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Kris Kristofferson’s “The Law Is For The Protection Of The People” isn’t just a song—it’s a bold statement that pulls back the curtain on the double standards and hypocrisy entrenched in authority. Kristofferson, ever the master of storytelling, takes a critical look at the power structures that often protect those in charge while leaving ordinary people behind. You can hear it in every line, a story that’s not afraid to challenge the status quo and ask tough questions.
The song starts with a seemingly small incident: an old man, barely causing trouble, gets violently handled by the police. It’s a simple story on the surface, but Kristofferson is clever—he turns it into a powerful allegory about how the system, while claiming to serve justice, often fails the very people it’s supposed to protect. There’s a biting sarcasm in his words, especially when he sings, “So thank your lucky stars you got protection.” It’s not just about the man on the street; it’s about society’s tendency to look the other way when the system is rigged against the vulnerable.
Kris Kristofferson’s delivery is unapologetic, and that’s what makes this song so impactful. His voice isn’t polished, but it’s raw, gritty, and perfectly suited to the message he’s delivering. He’s the kind of artist who doesn’t just sing a song—he lives it. You can feel his empathy for the characters in his stories and his frustration with the system.
Beyond the lyrics, the music itself is restrained but powerful, matching the gravity of the story. A steady rhythm moves the song along, almost like the steady march of time that seems indifferent to injustice. It’s as if the music reflects the inevitability of the situation—this is how things are, and unless something changes, they’ll keep repeating.
What’s remarkable about “The Law Is For The Protection Of The People” is its timelessness. Though it was written in the 1970s, its themes of inequality, power, and the misuse of authority still resonate today. It’s a song that holds up a mirror to society, forcing us to look at the uncomfortable truths we’d rather ignore. But Kristofferson doesn’t let us turn away. He makes us listen.
At its core, this song is a wake-up call. It challenges the listener to think critically about justice and to recognize that sometimes, the very laws meant to protect us can be twisted to serve those in power. It’s as relevant now as it was back then, making you wonder how much, if anything, has really changed.
Kristofferson’s genius lies not only in his ability to tell a story but in his courage to tell the stories that others might shy away from. “The Law Is For The Protection Of The People” is not just a song; it’s a rallying cry, an anthem for those who dare to question the fairness of the world around them.
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.