Scotty McCreery included a cover of Kris Kristofferson’s “Why Me, Lord” on his new album, “15.” (Photo Credits: John Shearer / Getty Images for Concert For Carolina & Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images)
Scotty McCreery has long been known for honoring the country legends who inspired him, earning praise for heartfelt renditions of classics like “The Dance,” “I Told You So,” and “Long Black Train.”
In 2026, the country star is celebrating the 15th anniversary of his American Idol victory, the career-defining moment that launched him into the spotlight. To mark the milestone, McCreery released a retrospective album fittingly titled 15.
The collection features nine of his biggest hits, including fan favorites “Five More Minutes” and “This Is It,” along with a brand-new track, “Been a Good Run,” and three cover songs that pay tribute to the artists who helped shape his musical journey.
For McCreery, “Why Me, Lord” felt like a natural fit to include on 15. A press release about the album says the song “sums up how he feels about the last 15 years.”
Those emotions shine through as McCreery sings the powerful opening lyrics:
“Why me, Lord, what have I ever done,
To deserve even one of the pleasures I’ve known?
Tell me, Lord, what did I ever do,
That was worth lovin’ you, or the kindness you’ve shown?”
You can tell that McCreery poured his heart and soul into this recording. Listen to him sing Kristofferson’s “Why Me, Lord” in the clip below.
Scotty McCreery Covered Other Country Hits On 15, Including “Hello Darlin’” And “Your Man”
Scotty McCreery’s journey to country music stardom began with a memorable cover of Josh Turner’s hit “Your Man” during his American Idol audition. Fifteen years later, he’s come full circle by reuniting with Turner to record the very same song for his anniversary album, 15.