Kris Kristofferson Talks Spotlight and ‘Starlight’

Kris Kristofferson doesn't believe he needs to put out a new album every few years. In fact, he waited 11 years before releasing 'This Old Road' in 2006. But now, three years later, the country icon is once again creating new music. At 72 years old with a career that has spanned over 40 years, he's simply practicing his right to go at his own pace.

"I've never been a disciplined writer," Kristofferson tells the Los Angeles Times. "I just wait till something hits me -- and as I get older, it doesn't hit as often. But I'll keep writing until they throw dirt on me. I just write more slowly."

Kristofferson is teaming up again with famed pop producer Don Was, who also produced 'This Old Road,' plus albums by Bob Dylan, George Michael, Bob Seger, and Poison. Titled 'Starlight and Stone,' the new project focuses on the classic sound that Kristofferson is famous for -- guitar-centric, harmonica and mandolin-laden music with the singer's signature Texas twang. The album is expected out later this summer.

An established film and TV star as well, Kristofferson is used to the criticism that comes with crossing career paths. But he maintains his multiple roles are complimentary.

"Some people have suggested that the acting negatively influenced my songwriting. I think that was probably more a case that the acting drew the attention of the spotlight," he says. "Hell, I was up there on the screen in a bathtub with Barbra Streisand. But I always felt like I was writing to the best of my ability, writing about what I was going through at the time. I never felt acting took away from my creative talent."

Up next on Kristofferson's busy calendar is a May 3 appearance at New York's Madison Square Garden, in honor of Pete Seger's 90th birthday. Billed as the 'Clearwater Concert: Creating The Next Generation Of Environmental Leaders,' the bill also includes Dave Matthews, Bela Fleck, Steve Earle, Bruce Springsteen and Emmylou Harris.