Kris Kristofferson is starring in an upcoming TV mini-series, Texas Rising, on the History channel, but he can also be heard in show's music.

The 78-year-old country legend sings a stripped-down version of the Tom Petty classic "I Won't Back Down" for Texas Rising's soundtrack, which also includes songs by George Strait and Puerto Rican star Jose Feliciano, among others. Press play on the video above to hear Kristofferson's cover and see some footage from the mini-series.

Texas Rising details the fight for Texas' independence following the Battle of the Alamo.

"In 1836, west of the Mississippi was considered the Wild West, and the Texas frontier was viewed as hell on Earth," a press statement explains. "With colliding cultures all fighting for stakes to this territory, no one was safe. But this was a time of bravery, a time to die for what you believed in and a time to stand tall against the fierce Mexican General Santa Anna and his forces. General Sam Houston, the rag-tag Rangers and the legendary 'Yellow Rose of Texas' lead this story of the human will to fight for independence despite nearly insurmountable odds and to claim a piece of history for all eternity."

In addition to Kristofferson, who plays the role of President Andrew Jackson, Texas Rising's all-star cast includes Bill Paxton, Brendan Fraser, Ray Liotta, Crispin Glover, Olivier Martinez, Chad Michael Murray, Robert Knepper, Rhys Coiro, Rob Morrow and Cynthia Addai-Robinson, among others. The mini-series is being produced by Thinkfactory Media, whose CEO, Leslie Greif, says that Kristofferson was perfect for the role.

"This iconic story and role really needed an American who is able to command the screen and captivate audiences," he tells the Hollywood Reporter. "For me, Kris was an obvious choice. There aren't too many actors that are able to embody this character and the stature, strength and liberty to play the part."

Strait performs "Take Me to Texas," written by Brandy Clark, for the soundtrack.

Texas Rising is set to premiere on Memorial Day (May 25) at 9PM ET.  A complete schedule of air dates is available on the History channel's website.

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