LifeNotes: Rick Christian, Writer Of “I Don’t Need You,” Passes

Rick Christian, a songwriter best known for Kenny Rogers’ “I Don’t Need You,” has died. He was 61. Christian died on May 3. His death was confirmed to MusicRow by his nephew, Tim Revell.

“I Don’t Need You” spent two weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard country chart in 1981 and was a No. 3 pop hit. It was the lead single from Rogers’ album, Share Your Love, which was produced by Lionel Richie.

Christian issued his own version of “I Don’t Need You” for Mercury Records in 1978. Harry Nilsson also recorded it for a 1980 album, Flash Harry.

Christian released an album titled Sweet Young Thing on Columbia Records in 1983. He independently released an album titled Voodoo Country in 2006.

Christian lived in Nashville. There was no funeral service, per his wishes and those of the family. A memorial service is expected at a later date, Revell said.