Shania Twain Recalls Being Blown Away by a Chance Encounter with Kris Kristofferson

Shania Twain is an icon for a generation of country music fans. The Canadian singer was the Queen of the ‘90s and her songs ruled the airwaves. Today, songs like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” and “That Don’t Impress Me Much” can prompt a roomful of people to sing along. Even with all her fame and acclaim, she still found herself star-struck when she met Kris Kristofferson.

The legendary songwriter, actor, United States Army Vet, Rhodes Scholar, and former Highwayman passed away on Saturday, September 27 at the age of 88. Since news of his passing broke, many country artists and his former co-stars have taken to social media to share memories of or tributes to him. Not long before his death, Twain spoke to Taste of Country Nights about a chance encounter with Kristofferson that left a lasting impression.

[RELATED: 7 Unforgettable Photos from Kris Kristofferson’s Long and Legendary Career]

Shania Twain on Meeting Kris Kristofferson

During her interview, host Evan Paul asked Shania Twain if she was ever surprised by a celebrity telling her they were a fan of her music. After a brief pause, she recounted the time she met Kris Kristofferson.

“You know, one time, I was at a rehearsal—it was for the CMA Awards—and Kris Kristofferson was there,” she recalled. “He was there with his wife and some of his kids. He is one of my favorite all-time songwriters. He’s an absolute poet. Not just for country music, but for many genres,” she added.

“He just walks right up to me and tells me how much of a fan he is and I was so blown away. I thought, ‘Wow, how do you even know who I am?’” she said. “Really though, you feel that way in the moment. You’re thinking, ‘I’ve grown up on this person’s music all of my life and admired his writing, and he’s recognizing me,” Twain explained. “So that was pretty glorious.”

By all accounts, this was the kind of feeling that Kristofferson left people with. His reputation for kindness and the ability to make another’s day may be the only thing that outshines his unparalleled songwriting ability.

Featured Image by Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images for Mercury Studios