Introduction
“Watch Closely Now” is a powerful song performed by Kris Kristofferson for the soundtrack of the 1976 film A Star is Born. The movie, directed by Frank Pierson, stars Kristofferson as John Norman Howard, a fading rock star, and Barbra Streisand as Esther Hoffman, a rising singer. The film is the third remake of the classic 1937 A Star is Born story, and it explores the tumultuous relationship between the two characters as their career paths diverge. The soundtrack played a pivotal role in setting the emotional tone for the movie, and Kristofferson’s contributions, particularly with “Watch Closely Now,” became an iconic part of the film.
Written by Paul Williams, a celebrated songwriter known for his poignant lyrics and deep understanding of character-driven narratives, “Watch Closely Now” is a defining moment in the film. The song encapsulates the wild, self-destructive lifestyle of Kristofferson’s character, John Norman Howard. It serves as both a cry for help and an assertion of the character’s rock star persona. The lyrics are filled with intensity and bravado, mirroring the conflict between John Norman’s personal turmoil and his public image. The title itself suggests a plea to the audience to “watch closely” as the protagonist navigates the peaks and valleys of fame and personal despair.
Musically, “Watch Closely Now” has a raw, rock-infused sound that showcases Kristofferson’s gravelly voice and his ability to convey deep emotion through music. It contrasts sharply with the softer ballads sung by Streisand’s character in the film, which reflect her more hopeful and innocent view of the world. This juxtaposition between their musical styles helps highlight the growing distance between their characters.
The song’s placement in A Star is Born occurs during a live concert sequence, amplifying its dramatic impact. John Norman Howard’s performance of “Watch Closely Now” is electric and filled with a sense of impending doom, foreshadowing his downward spiral. The song’s lyrics, “Watch closely now, are you watching me now?” evoke a sense of performance, vulnerability, and self-awareness, as if the character knows his world is unraveling but is powerless to stop it.
Despite Kristofferson being primarily known for his country songwriting, his rock star portrayal and his performance of “Watch Closely Now” expanded his musical persona, showing his versatility as an artist. The film and its soundtrack, including this song, were commercially successful, with the soundtrack reaching multi-platinum status.
In conclusion, “Watch Closely Now” is a standout track from A Star is Born (1976) that not only captures the essence of Kris Kristofferson’s character but also serves as a thematic cornerstone for the film. The song’s raw energy and poignant lyrics make it a memorable and integral part of the story, reflecting the highs and lows of fame, personal conflict, and the complexities of love.