Johnny Cash Songs

Subject: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: 53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 01:18 PM

How many Mudcatters out there like Big River by Johnny Cash? It was one of the first Sun recordings in Memphis by the man in black. I think he's great. bob

[Many song titles in this thread have been converted to links by a Mudelf.]

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Jack the Sailor
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 01:30 PM

I don't remember the Sun version, but I love the song.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Gary T
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 01:47 PM

I'm quite fond of the early Cash stuff, like Big River, Understand Your Man, Ring of Fire, etc. I haven't heard much of his recent offerings, but from the little I've encountered, it appears he's still got it.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Fortunato
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 01:52 PM

53. I love the song and I still perform it. Oddly enough I heard the Ian and Sylvia cover of it first. Ian Tyson did a good job, but Johnny's had more authority. It works great with a western swing tempo. I also do Get Rhythm from that time. One of these days I'll work up Hey Porter, another favorite. cheers.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: 53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 02:20 PM

Fortunato, you're right up my alley. I love the one about the Cadillac car [One Piece at a Time?], but he's got so many great songs it's hard to name them all. I used to perform Folsom Prison Blues and I think that one is great too. bob

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: GUEST,DrWord
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 02:29 PM

Yep! Big River is a great tune! Grew up listening to Johnny Roy the barefoot boy. First LP I bought was "Ride This Train". Cheers.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 02:32 PM

"Don't Take Your Guns to Town" is my favorite JC song.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: GUEST,joe
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 02:35 PM

Did he actually write the Forty Shades of Green?

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: 53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 02:37 PM

i have never heard that one. bob

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Chip2447
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 04:31 PM

In today's trying times, the song "Ragged Old Flag" is the one I like to listen to...

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Clifton53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 04:41 PM

One of his newer ones, "Field of Diamonds (in the Sky)" has become a favorite of mine.

How many '53's' do we have here anyway?

Clifton53

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONG'S
From: Snuffy
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 04:48 PM

Most people assume Forty Shades of Green is an Irish song that's been around for ages.

But according to a book I have, "Forty Shades of Green, Words and music by Johnny Cash, Copyright 1961 by Southwind Music Inc, New York USA"

Wassail! V

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 06:47 PM

Well, Clifton53, I only know of 3 of us 53s. You, Bob and me - I'm Glenda, Bob's wife. But if there are more, let me know! Sometimes I write from work, sometimes from home.

I like Johnny Cash too. I'm struggling a bit learning to play with the Big River # because of the quick barre chord F# and straight to a B7, but I'll get there. (Tomorrow is my 6th month anniversary playing guitar.)

Glenda

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Clifton53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 07:29 PM

Well, it's nice to meet both of you Glenda and Bob! Anyone who likes John R. Cash and the # 53 has to be alright!

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Roger
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 07:38 PM

I've got my son almost word perfect on Folsom Prison Blues. He looks very serious as he sings "but I shot a man in Reno, just to watch him die...", being 5 he doesn't quite carry the believability of the original.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 08:29 PM

Clifton, I must confess my "53" stands for the yr of my birth. It was a nickname Bob gave me many years ago when we worked together and were only friends. We got married 2 years ago.

Johnny Cash songs I like include Ring of Fire and Folsom Prison Blues but I am just starting to learn to play Ring of Fire. Folsom Prison Blues I've been trying to learn for a while.

Glenda

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From:
Date: 25 Sep 01 - 11:47 PM

He wrote those awesome song that pretty much sums up the Vietnam war, Drive On. mg

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Bert
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 05:40 AM

yup, I remember that one - GREAT. Here's a song you might like

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Nick
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 06:13 AM

To Glenda in particular: re that "quick F# chord to the B7" - Cash himself plays that song with a capo on the 2nd fret, using D chord shapes... which makes it a "quick E chord leading to the A7"... and a LOT easier! Have fun Nick

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 06:24 AM

Nick, Thank you. I am aware of the way to make the song easier exactly as you said. Bob and I talked about that last night, in fact. But I am using this song to help me learn those chords, and it is working. So why stop now and leave the challenge? I play a lot of songs using the capo, but this, for me, needs to be a 'stretch' time. Does that makes sense to you?

Glenda

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 08:23 AM

how about Luther Perkins? he was Johnny's sideman and electric guitar player for a long time. His haunting type of playing was admired by many including Keith Richards and myself, his playing was on I Walk the Line, Big River, Folsom Prison Blues, and Ring of Fire just to mention a few, he was superb. bob

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 03:14 PM

Has anybody heard Ballad of a Teenage Queen? bob

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Bert
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 03:48 PM

Ballad of a Teenage Queen was great. It's surprising it isn't heard more, maybe it's a bit too goody-goody for rebellious teens.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Aidan Crossey
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 04:37 PM

Delia's Gone and Let the Train Blow the Whistle (When I Go) from "American Recordings" ... two great snarling pieces of Cash genius.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Clifton53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 04:43 PM

Ah yes, "Tell the gossipers and liars, I will see them in Hell's fires...." I listened to that very tape today coming home from work. "Drive On" is also a favorite of mine, I am awed by the power in that 3 verse song.

Clifton

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: RangerSteve
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 04:55 PM

I Still Miss Someone is one of those rare C&W songs that I can identify with. And it works great with clawhammer banjo. So does Ballad of a Teenage Queen - a perfect old-time stringband tune.

Since there are so many Cash fans here, can someone supply me with the lyrics for a song called "Run Softly Blue River"? I think one of the lines is something like "Roll on, you Blue River, my darling's asleep". It's definitely a Carter Family-influenced song.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Paddy(1)
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 04:56 PM

Can't believe this thread! - love it

Johnny Cash wrote Forty Shades of Green prior to (or during) a visit some years back. Someone changed the words to suit a girl singer ("so brawny and so brown" instead of "as soft as eiderdown" etc.)

No one mentioned Tennessee Flat-Top Box or Without Love (not to mention The Ballad of Ira Hayes).

Paddy(1)

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Clifton53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 05:39 PM

Johnny Cash had a television show here in the states some years ago, when he was at his peak of popularity. I was a teen-ager and would stay home that night instead of going out with my friends. They never understood it!

He always had musical guests also, and not all mainstream country acts. I believe, though I can't recall fully, he had Bob Dylan on there.

I've always admired the way he has taken his own road.

Clifton

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Tiger
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 05:48 PM

Love to see the Cash fans come out - followed him since the mid-50's and do a lot of his songs.

Someday, hopefully many, many years from now, I'd like to do a Cash memorial show to show my appreciation.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 06:15 PM

I like the album he recorded live at Folsom Prison, and the one he did at San Quentin the one that A Boy Named Sue came off of. bob

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: kendall
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 07:11 PM

I've always liked JC. He is different. The first album I ever heard had such gems as Old Apache Squaw.
and..leave him there and let him die, I can't stand to hear him cry for water. (don't remember the name of this one) [Hank and Joe and Me]
Who's gonna cry when old John dies? Who's gonna cry when Old John dies? [The Caretaker] Does anyone remember this album? goes back to the '50s or very early 60's.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: catspaw49
Date: 26 Sep 01 - 07:59 PM

Now folks, before I say this, I like JC. As a matter of fact, when I lived in Nashville, we lived six houses down the road in a home built by one of the guys with Dr. Hook. We were the driveway where the tour buses turned and said, "No one of any importance lives here." In any case....

Ol' John has had some duds too, or at least some stuff that I much prefer by someone else. His rendition of "Lorena" is completely flat emotionally. He made a bit of a hit for Peter LaFarge's "The Ballad of Ira Hayes" that Paddy mentioned, but if you really want to hear that song, try Patrick Sky. Dylan fans may jump me here too, but the stuff on Dylan's "Nashville Skyline" like "Lay, Lady, Lay," really sucks wombat peckers. And that turn he and June did on the 30th Anniversary Dylan tribute was embarrassing. Johnny sang in one key, June sang harmony in a different key and the band was playing in a third key altogether.

That said, the series of albums he is doing now is beautiful in its simplicity and natural feel. Wonderful stuff!!

Spaw

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Nick
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 08:16 AM

Glenda -

Sure, makes perfect sense to play songs in as many keys as possible as an exercise - not to mention if you end up in a band with someone who wants to (can only!) sing Big River in Ab... !!

I'm going to throw in here a gratuitous plug for the Highwaymen (Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Kris Kristofferson). They only made 3 albums (which is still one more than the Traveling Wilburys), but the third in particular (The Road Goes On Forever) is one of my favorite albums. And those four, before they ever got together as a band, were my primary musical influences for MANY years... Nick

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Marc Bernier
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 08:41 AM

Would anyone know where I can find the words to Ragged Old Flag? That would be perfect for a gig I'm doing this weekend

Thanks Marc

Subject: Lyr Add: RAGGED OLD FLAG (Johnny Cash)
From: Tiger
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 10:29 AM

Here you are, Marc.

RAGGED OLD FLAG (A recitation, accompanied by music)
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Ragged Old Flag" (1974)

I walked through a county courthouse square,
On a park bench, an old man was sittin' there.

I said, "Your old courthouse is kinda run down."
He said, "Naw, it'll do for our little town."

I said, "Your ol' flagpole has leaned a little bit,
And that's a Ragged Old Flag you got hangin' on it."

He said, "Have a seat," and I sat down.
"Is this the first time you've been to our little town?"

I said, "I think it is." He said, "I don't like to brag,
But we're kinda proud of that Ragged Old Flag.

"You see, we got a little hole in that flag there
When Washington took it across the Delaware.

"And it got powder-burned the night Francis Scott Key
Sat watchin' it writin' 'Say Can You See,'

"And it got a bad rip in New Orleans
With Packingham and Jackson tuggin' at its seams.

"And it almost fell at the Alamo
Beside the Texas flag, but she waved on, though.

"She got cut with a sword at Chancellorsville
And she got cut again at Shiloh Hill.

"There was Robert E. Lee, Beauregard, and Bragg,
And the south wind blew hard on that Ragged Old Flag.

"On Flanders Field in World War One
She got a big hole from a Bertha gun.

"She turned blood red in World War Two.
She hung limp and low a time or two.

"She was in Korea and Vietnam.
She went where she was sent by her Uncle Sam.

"She waved from our ships upon the briny foam,
And now they've about quit wavin' her back here at home.

"In her own good land here she's been abused.
She's been burned, dishonored, denied, and refused.

"And the government for which she stands
Is scandalized throughout the land.

"And she's gettin' threadbare and wearin' thin,
But she's in good shape for the shape she's in.

"'Cause she's been through the fire before
And I believe she can take a whole lot more.

"So we raise her up every mornin', we take her down every night,
We don't let her touch the ground and we fold her up right.

"On second thought, I do like to brag,
'Cause I'm mighty proud of that Ragged Old Flag."

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: kendall
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 12:37 PM

I dont know about anyone else, but, this gets to me!

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: catspaw49
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 12:49 PM

Well Kendall, it gets to me.........

Spaw

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Jack the Sailor
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 12:49 PM

The highway men were a true country super group. I saw them on Austin City Limits. They seemed to be so suited to each other that I suspect that one of the reasons they formed the group was that they could hang out together on the road.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Marc Bernier
Date: 27 Sep 01 - 02:09 PM

Thanks alot Tiger. This'll go over great.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 28 Sep 01 - 09:09 PM

refresh

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: marty D
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 12:56 AM

I LOVE Ballad of a Teenage Queen! It may be the corniest song I sing and I even do the background vocals to myself (dream on dream on Teenage Queen) but not at the same time!

marty

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Tiger
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 11:45 AM

Cute song, Marty.......

Written by "Cowboy Jack" Clement, who did production work for Townes Van Zandt and others.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: 53
Date: 29 Sep 01 - 10:10 PM

has anybody ever seen the movie inwhich johhny cash played a small town sheriff and that andy griffith played the bad guy, it was a great movie but i can't remember the name of the movie, help, bob

Subject: Lyr/Chords Add: FIELD OF DIAMONDS (Johnny Cash)
From: wysiwyg
Date: 17 Oct 03 - 11:46 PM

FIELD OF DIAMONDS
Words and music by Johnny Cash and Jack Wesley Routh
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "American III: Solitary Man" (2000)

  INTRO:  C
  
  VERSE:
         C                F       C
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
         C                    G      C
        WORLDS ARE WHIRLING RIGHT ON BY
         C                 F     C
        ARE YOU WONDERING WHO AM I
         C                G       C
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
  
  
  BREAK:
           Bb                      C
        AM I JUST A STAR IN SOME CROWN
                Bb                   C     D     G
        OR SOMEONE'S LIFE SUN GOING DOWN, DOWN, DOWN
  
  VERSE:
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
        SILENT BEAUTY SHINING HIGH
        ARE YOU TEARS THE ANGELS CRY
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
  
  INSTRUMENTAL:
        GUITAR 1 CAN PLAY THE CHORDS TO THE VERSE AND BREAK
  
        GUITAR 2 PLAYS THE FOLLOWING: (IMPROVISE A LITTLE)
  
        E ------------------------|-----------------------|
        B ------------------------|-----------------------|
        G ------------------------|-----------------------|
        D ------5-3-2-----2-------|------5-3-2-----2------|
        A --3-5-------3-5---5-3---|--3-5-------3-5---5-3--|
        E ------------------------|-----------------------|
  
        E ---------------------|-------------------------------|
        B ---------------------|-------------------------------|
        G ----3-3-3-3--5-3-5---|----3-3-3-3--5-3-4--4/7--7/12--|
        D ---------------------|-------------------------------|
        A --3------------------|--3----------------------------|
        E ---------------------|-------------------------------|
  
  VERSE:
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
        LIKE THE NIGHT YOU PASS ME BY
        I COULD TOUCH YOU IF I TRY
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
  
  BREAK:
        AM I JUST A STAR IN SOME CROWN
        OR SOMEONE'S LIFE SUN GOING DOWN, DOWN, DOWN
  
  VERSE:
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
        SILENT BEAUTY SHINING HIGH
        ARE YOU TEARS THE ANGELS CRY
        FIELD OF DIAMONDS IN THE SKY
  
  OUTRO:
        INSTRUMENTAL: PLAY THE CHORDS TO ONE VERSE AND FADE OUT.
  

  
  
  Source: Cowpie
  http://www.roughstock.com/cowpie/cowpie-songs/c/cash_johnny/field_of_diamonds.crd
  
  SH 




	

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,James
Date: 20 Oct 03 - 09:56 AM

I love Johnny Cash. Next in Line is one of my all-time favourites. Wasn't Big River originally released as the B side of Ballad of a Teenage Queen? And wasn't Get Rhythm the B side of I Walk the Line. I love his new stuff and his version of Cohen's Bird on a Wire is wonderful. I used to own the Ride This Train Album..is it available on CD?

Subject: Lyr Add: WINGS IN THE MORNING (Johnny Cash)
From: wysiwyg
Date: 20 Oct 03 - 10:03 AM

You can hear it at RECORD LADY, using the artist and song indexes to find and download the sound file. And please, support the Record Lady site if you can!

~Susan

=======================================================

WINGS IN THE MORNING
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Bootleg Vol. VI: The Soul of Truth" (2012)

CHORUS: Wings in the mornin' and license to fly
Straight to the portals of nevermore-die.
Nevermore pain in them old achin' bones.
Wings in the mornin' to carry us home.

My grandfather lived by the book all his life
On rich bottomland with twelve kids and a wife.
He never saw TV nor rode a jet plane,
But he knew that heaven was holdin' his claim. CHORUS

The salt of the earth, yet with faith in the Lord,
They all got together in that one accord,
And what could be greater than God's guarantee
That we can have heaven for eternity? CHORUS

Rocks in the road and we stumble and fall;
Light's gettin' low so we don't see at all!
But I promise you, on that gettin'-up day,
Wings in the mornin' and we'll fly away. CHORUS


SH

Subject: Lyr Add: RUN SOFTLY BLUE RIVER (Johnny Cash)
From: GUEST,Gene
Date: 20 Oct 03 - 11:14 AM

RUN SOFTLY BLUE RIVER
(Johnny Cash)
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "The Fabulous Johnny Cash" (1958)

INTRO:
(Run softly, Blue River; my darlin's asleep.
Run softly, Blue River; run cool and deep.)

Run softly, Blue River; my darlin's asleep.
Run softly, Blue River; run cool and deep.

Oh, I thrill to her kisses and she thrills to mine.
Run softly while she sleeps and dreams for a time,
'Cause she dreams of tomorrow when she'll be my wife,
And I pray that as peaceful as you is our life,
And if your murmuring soothes me till I'm sleeping too,
Run softly, Blue River; we'll both dream with you.

REFRAIN:
(Run softly, Blue River; my darlin's asleep.
Run softly, Blue River; run cool and deep.)

REPEAT Verse

REFRAIN:
(Run softly, Blue River; my darlin's asleep.
Run softly, Blue River; run cool and deep.)

REPEAT REFRAIN & FADE:
(Run softly, Blue River; my darlin's asleep.
Run softly, Blue River; run cool and deep.)

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: wysiwyg
Date: 20 Oct 03 - 11:22 AM

Great, Gene! BTW, it's helpful, when you add a lyric, if you change the subject line of the post (see this one). Makes it easier to spot them when people search here.

~Susan

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Chris in Wheaton
Date: 20 Oct 03 - 12:51 PM

My all-time favorite is John's version of One More Ride on Marty Stuart's album - Doc Watson plays on the breaks and it really grooves.
Just incredible to think of the guys that recorded for Sam Phillips - I hope the music lives forever!
As I remember, John should also be remembered for his code-breaking skills while in the military.
Chris in Wheaton

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Wotcha
Date: 21 Oct 03 - 12:07 PM

Now that he is gone, his final work even more poignant. The song "Hurt" has so much going on in it, that he has immortalized his own mortality ...

Cheers,

Brian

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: GUEST,Mary V.
Date: 21 Oct 03 - 06:39 PM

One of my favorites is Johnny and June singing
Waiting on the Far Side Banks of Jordan.....
it's on a c.d. called PRESS ON....
It's one of their later c.d.s

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From:
Date: 27 May 04 - 01:28 AM

Need the lyrics to "That Old Wheel" (gonna roll around once more) and "September When It Comes". Think maybe Rosanne has a recording of the last one. Can anybody help? Thanks

Subject: Lyr Add: SEPTEMBER WHEN IT COMES (Rosanne Cash)
From: Rain Dog
Date: 27 May 04 - 08:02 AM

Is this what you are looking for?

SEPTEMBER WHEN IT COMES
Words and music by Rosanne Cash & John B. Leventhal
As recorded by Rosanne Cash & Johnny Cash on Rosanne’s album “Rules of Travel” (2003)

There’s a cross above the baby’s bed, a savior in her dreams,
But she was not delivered then and the baby became me.
There’s a light inside the darkened room, a footstep on the stair,
A door that I forever close to leave those memories there.
So when the shadows lengthen into an evening sun,
First, there’s summer, then I’ll let you in, September when it comes.

I plan to crawl outside these walls, close my eyes, and see,
And fall into the heart and arms of those who wait for me.
I cannot move a mountain now; I can no longer run.
I cannot be who I was then; in a way, I never was.
I watch the clouds go sailing; I watch the clock and sun.
Oh, I watch myself depending on September when it comes.

When the shadows lengthen and burn away the past,
They will fly me like an angel to a place where I can rest.
When this begins, I’ll let you in, September when it comes.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Amos
Date: 27 May 04 - 11:50 AM

WHat eerie and strange lyrics!

A

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From:
Date: 30 Sep 04 - 04:30 PM

Please can you tell where I might locate a copy of a song by Johnny Cash that is either entitled "Thanksgiving Song" [Thanksgiving Prayer] or "Thank God He made you." It is the most beautiful song but I have been looking for over 2 years for a CD or tape with the song and cannot find it.

I would appreciate information as to where I might obtain a copy.

Thanks so much for any assistance.

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: wilbyhillbilly
Date: 30 Sep 04 - 04:51 PM

Did a Google search and came up with this, hope it helps


As for the featured song, it is "Thanksgiving Prayer," also known as "I'm Thanking the Lord He Made You," with words and music by Johnny Cash and Josef Anderson.

A commercially available recording of this track is not easy to come by, but I did learn of one import CD that has it: "Johnny Cash — Unsurpassed American Masters" (OTA-007).

Best of luck

whb

Subject: RE: JOHNNY CASH SONGS
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 30 Sep 04 - 09:45 PM

No doubt about it - he was a great songwriter and his songs have helped me earn a living.

But what drew me to him was the 1970's. Everybody in England was going Celtic. The DADGAD guitars , the jigs and reel, the agonised quavering vocals with Walter Gabriel accents and we were told this was our lot as English folk singers and this is what we had to sing if we wanted to be welcome in English folk clubs.

And the songs......they were all about being a victim. The cruel landlord, the cruel redcoat soldier - they came round and give us a good hiding, then they transported us for doing sod all, and tomorrow we were all going to be hanged......and so it went on.

I was living in Birmingham at the time and one night I went to an Irish club - prepared for the worst, if you got asked out for dinner the inevitable background music was The Chieftains playing a 25 minute lament.

And there in this club was country music. The Showband scene had fallen apart in Ireland and there loads of brilliant Irish musicians who could play as well as any Nashville cats, playing their hearts out in the country music clubs. they all had fantastic instruments -fender tellys and fender twins. They were so good.

Inevitably they told you about their heroes who seemed to be Willie, Waylon, Moe Bandy, Johnny Paycheck - but they all loved Johnny Cash.

And you could see why. here was this voice that conveyed that epic sense of self. I am the Captain of my soul, master of my fate, hello I'm Johnny Cash. I've been knocked down by life, but I have dignity. I'm a victim but I'll bust your lip if you try to make feel like one.....thank god for Johnny Cash.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Bob
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 01:35 PM

Song lyric: "We got married in a fever, hotter than a ?????????, ever since the fire went out. Yeah, I'm going to ????????" Please help - and name of the song [Jackson]- Thanks Bob

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: pdq
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 01:42 PM

"Jackson", done with his wife June Carter

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,beetle
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 03:54 PM

"Jackson" was written by Billy Ed Wheeler.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Sidewinder
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 05:46 PM

My favourites are Hurt (the cover of the 9-inch nails song) which is a fitting swansong for "the man in black". I also love "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down" which I think Kris Kristofferson wrote, a mesmerising performance from one of the all-time greats. One Piece at a Time - I could go on, but I'll leave it at that for now!

Best Wishes

Sidewinder.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Once Famous
Date: 01 Jan 05 - 07:13 PM

Guest Bob

I always heard it as:

We got married in a fever
Hotter than a pepper sprout

We've been talkin' 'bout Jackson
Ever since the fire went out.

I'm goin' to Jackson, etc.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Kaleea
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 01:28 AM

When Mr. Cash sang, you knew that his songs came from deep within him.
   Anybody read the book about him? What is it: "A Man Called Cash" maybe?

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: JennyO
Date: 02 Jan 05 - 08:17 AM

I agree with MG. That's what I always heard it as, too.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,cliff
Date: 11 Nov 05 - 08:51 AM

speaking of "Jackson"...does anyone have the chords

Subject: RE: September when it comes guitar TABS
From: GUEST,Drew
Date: 28 Nov 05 - 07:36 PM

Anyone have guitar tabs for September When It Comes?

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Louie Roy
Date: 29 Nov 05 - 11:29 AM

I have an MP3 of A Thanksgiving Prayer by William S Burroughs. I don't know if that is what you're looking for, but if you PM me your email address I'll email it to you and you can make up your own mind Louie Roy

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Louie Roy
Date: 29 Nov 05 - 01:01 PM

Thanksgiving Prayer was done on November 19, 1994, on "Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman" by Johnny Cash who appeared in 4 episodes of this show. If you know of anyone who might have taped this show you can get it from them. I didn't Louie Roy

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,headeast
Date: 29 Jan 06 - 03:54 PM

anyone know what the song is sung by JC

some of the words go "and John was allowed to look, looks like everything is going by the book" (about the Bible and the last days?) [Goin' by the Book]
Thanks

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,PR
Date: 12 Feb 06 - 06:00 PM

Can anyone tell me who did the remake of Get Rhythm with Johnny Cash in the '90s? If you can please email me at [e-mail] I thought it was Lee Roy Parnell, but have not found it yet if it was.
Thanks

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Chris in Wheaton
Date: 13 Feb 06 - 01:44 PM

the new benefit cd - Hands Across the Water - has a nice version of Johnny's Forty Shades of Green, done by Rodney C - the lyrics on most of the net sites are wrong, but Rodney may have changed a few - but I doubt there was ever a Nashville song before or after that mentioned draining bogs or gleaning thatch!! So some confusion may be understandable.

There's also a John and Fiona Prine song and a great Cerys Matthews song in Welsh and English!! You can listen to the cd in full at CMT.com.
Chris yn Wheaton

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,AR282
Date: 13 Feb 06 - 06:09 PM

>>No one mentioned Tennessee Flat-Top Box or Without Love (not to mention The Ballad of Ira Hayes).<<

I love Tennessee Flat-Top Box. One of the first songs I learned to play when I bought my first acoustic.

Another fave is Walking the Blues. I also love Piece By Piece [One Piece at a Time]--about the Detroit autoworker who smuggles an entire automobile home under his jacket by walking out every day with a different piece and assembling them when he got home. Great hard drivin country or is it rockabilly or is there any difference??

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Fan
Date: 30 Jul 06 - 09:29 AM

Without Love is tremendous....

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Fan number1
Date: 05 Aug 06 - 01:01 PM

Have just seen "Keep It Cash" Johnny Cash tribute band, dont normally go much on tribute bands but they are excellent very authentic.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Gene
Date: 06 Aug 06 - 08:43 PM

RE:
The Johnny Cash song
"Thanksgiving Song" [Thanksgiving Prayer] or "Thank God He made you."

http://b5.boards2go.com/boards/board.cgi?&user=recldy&user2=record&pass2=lady&

you can request the song at the above site....

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Aug 06 - 03:13 AM

Thankyou good site

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Gene
Date: 09 Aug 06 - 10:34 AM

http://members3.boardhost.com/july4thbby/index.html

you can request old songs here.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 04:48 AM

Well my favourite at the moment, which I just keep on playing is

Rusty Cage - lyrics J Cash

The backing I believe is Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers

I am just getting into his later stuff - some fine numbers there.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 05:22 AM

I am a Johnny Cash fan. I always enjoy songs that he sang with his wife, like Darlin' Companion. He's great on video too. I saw him in a film a few years ago and really enjoyed it but I can't remember what the film was called. I'll be on Google when I leave here!

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Scrump
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 05:27 AM

Can anyone tell me who did the remake of Get Rhythm with Johnny Cash in the '90s? If you can please email me at [e-mail] I thought it was Lee Roy Parnell, but have not found it yet if it was.

Was it Ry Cooder? He did a good version of it. Not sure if he did it with JC though.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Rasener
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 06:04 AM

Get Rhythm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aFTKvMHmY4

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Muttley
Date: 16 Feb 07 - 07:07 AM

Of all the songs I've heard Johnny Cash do I think my favourites have to be:
"A Boy Named Sue"- it's catchy, funny and shows his quirky side
"Folsom Prison Blues" - cannot believe he wrote so powerfully without having the personal experience at the time.
"Big John" - just a good ballad - corny in parts but GOOD.
"I Walk the Line" - moving

and

My absolute favourite:

"Man in Black" - says it all

BTW - I think his biography is also called "Man In Black"

To wax (maybe) controversial; I felt Joaquim Phoenix played him brilliantly in the biopic "Walk the Line" and Reese Witherspoon as June Carter was also superb. I also felt the film portrayed him fairly honestly too - warts and all - no excuses, just - as it was.

Muttley

Haven't heard some of the others mentioned: didn't grow up un a folky family or one that appreciated Johnny Cash - but I loved his songs when they came on the radio over here (Oz) (which was, unfortunately, an infrequent occurrence.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: mrmoe
Date: 09 Mar 07 - 08:34 AM

... and my favorite ... "Come In Stranger"

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Guest PC
Date: 09 Mar 07 - 10:33 AM

Just a quick reminder that ''Keep it Cash'' will be performing live at the Picturedrome at Holmfirth on May 11..Tickets and door are £5.00 a bargain.....[www.picturedrome.net]

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: fumblefingers
Date: 09 Mar 07 - 06:06 PM

I grew up on his stuff. One of my best favorites is the original "Mean Eyed Cat." I also like "Smiling Bill McCall" and "Wanted Man."

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: eddie1
Date: 10 Mar 07 - 12:50 AM

I love Johnny Cash's singing and thought the "Luther Perkins sound" of the muffled bass strings was pure genius. Luther's quote, "Other people are looking for the notes - I've found them!" is wonderful.
I only have one beef. "The Rebel – Johnny Yuma" is terrible. It sounds as if it was the theme song for a TV series perhaps.
Can anyone enlighten me please?


Eddie

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: fumblefingers
Date: 10 Mar 07 - 01:54 AM

It was a theme song for the TV series, strangely title, "Johnny Yuma." I like the song better than the series.

Here's the poop.

10/4/1959 - 9/17/1961 ABC
6/1962 - 9/1962 Rerun on NBC
Black and White - 30 minutes - 76 episodes
(ABC) Oct. 1959 - Sept. 1961 Sunday 9:00-9:30
(NBC) June 1962 - Sept. 1962 Wed.8:30-9:00

Created by Andrew J. Fenady and Nick Adams
A Goodson-Todman Production
The Rebel Cast

Nick Adams as Johnny Yuma
(Real Name: Nicholas Aloysius Adamshock)
The Rebel Theme Song

"Ballad of Johnny Yuma" music by Richard Markowitz & Andrew J. Fenady

Performed by Johnny Cash

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Rasener
Date: 10 Mar 07 - 05:41 AM

How much stuff did Johnny Cash do with Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers?

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: eddie1
Date: 10 Mar 07 - 05:48 AM

Thanks for that Fumblefingers - I really wanted to know how he came to record such a load of rubbish. As I said, I'm a big JC fan and this just stuck out like a sore thumb!

Eddie

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,PC at www.picturedrome.net
Date: 22 Mar 07 - 10:11 PM

Just a quick reminder...........That the tribute to Johny Cash ''Keep it Cash'' is playing at the picturedrome in Holmfirth on May 11..the entry fee is £5.00 and you dont need a ticket..its an abssolute bargain..PC

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,donna
Date: 01 Apr 07 - 05:03 PM

Does anyone know the song that Johnny Cash wrote some of it goes like if I travel the world and go nowhere, another part says I tasted your sweet lips [What Do I Care]

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Mike Miller
Date: 01 Apr 07 - 07:51 PM

I ran across a gospel song that moved me so much, I included it in my last CD. It is called "Fair Weather Friends" and, if you haven't heard it, you have missed a wonderfully written song. Every performer I have sung it for has included it in his set list.
I don't know if Cash recorded it himself, but he wrote it and it is worth learning.

Mike

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Cash in the Carolina's
Date: 08 Apr 07 - 10:17 AM

I just found out that the Carolina's now have a decent Johnny Cash tribute band. The Folsom Prison Gang was formed in Western North Carolina and is doing pretty good. Check out their website at www.TheFolsomPrisonGang.com.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Black Hawk
Date: 08 Apr 07 - 11:40 AM

Guest Donna - could it be 'What Do I Care'?

" I'd still be satisfied because I've tasted your sweet lips,
What do I care if I never have much money,
Or sometimes my table looks a little bare,
Anything that I may miss is made up for each time we kiss,
I love you, You love me so what do I care".

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: oldhippie
Date: 08 Apr 07 - 01:10 PM

It doesn't look like anyone has yet mentioned my favorite Johnny Cash song, "Route 1 Box 144".

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Mr Happy
Date: 10 Apr 07 - 06:43 PM

a guy comes to our weakly sinaround now & then does this one:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNQFzXtTjTA

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Desi C
Date: 22 Mar 11 - 07:16 AM

Very good song. My favourite two of his to perform are I Still Miss Someone and Give My Love to Rose.

Subject: Lyr Add: THESE ARE MY PEOPLE (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 16 Nov 19 - 11:08 PM

I’ve been hearing this on TV commercials for Volkswagen lately. It was unfamiliar to me. It was also played at the end of today’s episode of “This American Life.” The episode, number 688, was called “The Out Crowd” and was about asylum-seekers and the new obstacles put in their way by the Trump administration.


THESE ARE MY PEOPLE
Words and music by Jonny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on “America: A 200-Year Salute in Story & Song” (1972)

These are my people.
This is the land where my forefathers lie.
These are my people.
In brotherhood, we’re heirs of a creed to live by,
A creed that proclaims
That by loved ones’ bloodstains
This is my land
And these are my people.

These are my people.
They were born on and live by the land.
These are my people,
And their cities were raised by hard-working hands
And their faces do tell
That they’re holding on well
To this their land.
Yes, these are my people.

These are my people.
These are the ones who will reach for the stars.
These are my people.
By the light of the earth you can tell they are ours—
A new step to take
And a new day will break,
For this my land,
Yes, these are my people.

(spoken) These are my people.
(hums rest of verse)
(fade)

[Not to be confused with other songs with the same title. One was written by Cliff Arquette and Charles G. Dant and recorded by Arquette under his persona "Charlie Weaver." One was written by Walter Colwell and Paul Murphy and was part of the "Up with People" repertoire. One was written by Dave Berg and Rivers Rutherford and recorded by Rodney Atkins. There are more.]

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Guest
Date: 16 Nov 19 - 11:49 PM

Great thread. I've been a big JC fan for 50 years now. On the other hand, a song like "Ragged Old Flag" would be a puzzle and an embarrassment in any country except the US.

Sorry folks, that's just the way it is.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,HiLo
Date: 17 Nov 19 - 09:16 AM

I am a huge fan of Johnny Cash. My favourites of his early stuff are "Come In Stranger" b/w "(I Don't Like It But I) Guess Things Happen That Way". I prefer his Sun recordings to much of what he did at Columbia. He did do an album Called Ride This Train, which was wonderful, it was on Columbia. I don't think it has ever been released as a CD.
He did some grand things late in his career, best cover of Leonard Cohen's Bird on a Wire. A real American legend.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: GUEST,Kenny B(Inactive)
Date: 17 Nov 19 - 10:31 AM

A surprising gem by JC is the best version I have heard of this monologue

The Cremation of Sam McGee written by Robert Service

Subject: Lyr Add: THE BALLAD OF FORTY DOLLARS (Tom T. Hall)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 27 Nov 19 - 01:32 AM

THE BALLAD OF FORTY DOLLARS
Words and music by Tom T. Hall
As recorded by Johnny Cash & Waylon Jennings on "Heroes" (1986)

The man that preached the fun'ral said it really was a simple way to die.
He laid down to rest one afternoon and never opened up his eyes.
They hired me an' Fred an' Joe to dig the grave and carry up some chairs.
It took us seven hours, and I guess we must have drunk a case of beer.

Well, I guess I ought to go and watch 'em put him down, but I don’t own a suit.
And anyway, when they start talkin' 'bout the fire in hell, I get spooked.
So let’s just sit here in the truck, and act like we don’t know him when they pass.
Anyway, when they're all through, we got to go to work and mow the grass.

Here they come, and who’s that ridin' in that big old shiny limousine?
Look at all that chrome! I do believe that that’s the sharpest thing I've seen.
That must belong to his rich uncle; someone said he owned a big old farm.
When they get parked, let’s mosey down and look it over; that won’t do no harm.

That must be the widow in the car, and won’t you take a look at that?
That sure is a pretty dress; you know some women do look good in black.
He’s not even in the ground, and they tell me his truck is up for sale.
They say she took it pretty hard, but you can’t tell too much behind a veil.

Listen, ain't that pretty when a bugler plays the military taps?
Yeah, I think that when you's in the war, they always hide and play a song like that.
Well, here we are, and there he goes, and I guess that you might call it our bad luck.
I hope he rests in peace, but the trouble is, the feller owes us forty bucks.

- - -
Also recorded by Tom T. Hall.

Subject: Lyr Add: GET RHYTHM (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 05:49 PM

This song was mentioned by Fortunato on 25-Sep-2001:


GET RHYTHM
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (Sun #7, 1969)

CHORUS 1: Hey, get rhythm when you get the blues.
Come on, get rhythm when you get the blues.
Get a rock 'n' roll feelin' in your bones,
Put taps on your toes and get gone.
Get rhythm when you get the blues.

1. A little shoeshine boy he never gets lowdown,
But he's got the dirtiest job in town.
Bendin' low at the people's feet
On the windy corner of a dirty street.
Well, I asked him while he shined my shoes,
How'd he keep from gettin' the blues.
He grinned as he raised his little head.
He popped a shoeshine rag and then he said:

CHORUS 2: Get rhythm when you get the blues.
Come on, get rhythm when you get the blues.
A jumpy rhythm makes you feel so fine.
It'll shake all your trouble from your worried mind.
Get rhythm when you get the blues.

INSTRUMENTAL VERSE

CHORUS 1: Get rhythm when you get the blues.
Come on, get rhythm when you get the blues.
Get a rock 'n' roll feelin' in your bones,
Put taps on your toes and get gone.
Get rhythm when you get the blues.

2. Well, I sat down to listen to the shoeshine boy,
And I thought I was gonna jump for joy.
Slapped on the shoe polish left and right,
He took his shoeshine rag and he held it tight.
He stopped once to wipe the sweat away.
I said: "You're mighty little, boy, to be a-workin' that way."
He said: "I like it" with a big wide grin,
Kept on a-poppin' and he'd say it again:

CHORUS 3: Get rhythm when you get the blues.
Come on, get rhythm when you get the blues.
It only costs a dime, just a nickel a shoe.
It does a million dollars worth o' good for you.
Get rhythm when you get the blues.

Subject: Lyr Add: DON'T TAKE YOUR GUNS TO TOWN (Johnny Cash
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 06:12 PM

This song was mentioned by Sinsull on 25-Sep-2001:


DON'T TAKE YOUR GUNS TO TOWN
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (Columbia 4-41313, 1958)

1. A young cowboy named Billy Joe grew restless on the farm,
A boy filled with wanderlust who really meant no harm.
He changed his clothes and shined his boots and combed his dark hair down,
And his mother cried as he walked out:

CHORUS: "Don't take your guns to town, son.
Leave your guns at home, Bill.
Don't take your guns to town."

2. He laughed and kissed his mom and said: "Your Billy Joe's a man.
I can shoot as quick and straight as anybody can,
But I wouldn't shoot without a cause; I'd gun nobody down."
But she cried again as he rode away: CHORUS

3. He sang a song as on he rode; his guns hung at his hips.
He rode into a cattle town, a smile upon his lips.
He stopped and walked into a bar and laid his money down,
But his mother's words echoed again: CHORUS

4. He drank his first strong liquor then to calm his shakin' hand,
And tried to tell himself at last he had become a man.
A dusty cowpoke at his side began to laugh him down,
And he heard again his mother's words: CHORUS

5. Filled with rage, then Billy Joe reached for his gun to draw,
But the stranger drew his gun and fired before he even saw.
As Billy Joe fell to the floor, the crowd all gathered 'round
And wondered at his final words: CHORUS

Subject: Lyr Add: DRIVE ON (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 06:17 PM

This song was mentioned by mgarvey on 25-Sep-2001:


DRIVE ON
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (American 7-18091, 1994)

1. Well, I got a friend named Whiskey Sam.
He was my boonie-rat buddy for a year in 'Nam.
He said: "I think my country got a little off track.
Took 'em twenty-five years to welcome me back,
But it's better than not comin' back at all.
Many a good man I saw fall,
And even now, ev'ry time I dream,
I hear the men and the monkeys in the jungle scream."

CHORUS: Drive on; it don't mean nothin'.
My children love me, but they don't understand,
An' I got a woman who knows her man.
Drive on; it don't mean nothin'.
It don't mean nothin'; drive on.

2. Well, I remember one night, Tex and me
Rappelled in on a hot LZ.
We had our sixteens on rock 'n' roll,
And with all o' that fire, I was scared 'n' cold.
I was crazy, and I was wild,
And I have seen the tiger's smile.
I spit in a bamboo viper's face,
And I'd be dead but by God's grace. CHORUS

3. It was a slow walk in a sad rain,
And nobody tried to be John Wayne.
I came home, but Tex did not,
And I can't talk about the hit he got,
But I got a little limp now when I walk,
And I got a little tremolo when I talk,
But my letter read from Whiskey Sam:
You're a walkin' talkin' miracle from Vietnam. CHORUS

Subject: Lyr Add: I WALK THE LINE (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 06:24 PM

This song was mentioned by "53" on 26-Sep-2001:


I WALK THE LINE
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "I Walk the Line" (1964)

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine.
I keep my eyes wide open all the time.
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds.
Because you're mine, I walk the line.

I find it very, very easy to be true.
I find myself alone when each day's through.
Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you.
Because you're mine, I walk the line.

As sure as night is dark and day is light,
I keep you on my mind both day and night,
And happiness I've known proves that it's right.
Because you're mine, I walk the line.

You've got a way to keep me on your side.
You give me cause for love that I can't hide.
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide.
Because you're mine, I walk the line.

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine.
I keep my eyes wide open all the time.
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds.
Because you're mine, I walk the line.

Subject: Lyr Add: BALLAD OF A TEENAGE QUEEN (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 06:28 PM

This song was mentioned by “53” on 26-Sep-2001:


BALLAD OF A TEENAGE QUEEN
Words and music by Jack Clement
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single, (Sun 283, 1958).

(Dream on, dream on, teenage queen,
Prettiest girl we've ever seen.)

There's a story in our town
Of the prettiest girl around—
Golden hair and eyes of blue.
How those eyes could flash at you!
(How those eyes could flash at you!)
Boys hung 'round her by the score,
But she loved the boy next door
Who worked at the candy store.
(Dream on, dream on, teenage queen,
Prettiest girl we've ever seen.)

She was tops in all, they said;
Never once went to her head.
She had everything, it seemed;
Not a care, this teenage queen.
(Not a care, this teenage queen.)
Other boys could offer more,
But she loved the boy next door
Who worked at the candy store.
(Dream on, dream on, teenage queen.
You should be a movie queen.)

He would marry her next spring,
Saved his money, bought a ring.
Then one day a movie scout
Came to town to take her out.
(Came to town to take her out.)
Hollywood could offer more,
So she left the boy next door
Workin' at the candy store.
(Dream on, dream on, teenage queen.
See you on the movie screen.)

Very soon she was a star,
Pretty house and shiny car,
Swimmin' pool and a fence around,
But she missed her old home town.
(But she missed her old home town.)
All the world was at her door,
All except the boy next door
Who worked at the candy store.
(Dream on, dream on, teenage queen,
Saddest girl we've ever seen.)

Then one day the teenage star
Sold her house and all her cars,
Gave up all her wealth and fame,
Left it all and caught a train.
(Left it all and caught a train.)
Do I have to tell you more?
She came back to the boy next door
Who worked at the candy store.
(Now this story has some more.
You'll hear it at the candy store.)

Subject: Lyr Add: WITHOUT LOVE (from Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 07 Dec 19 - 06:41 PM

This song was mentioned by Paddy(1) on 26-Sep-2001;


WITHOUT LOVE
Words and music by Nick Lowe
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Rockabilly Blues" (1981)

Without love, I am half human.
Without love, I'm all machine.
Without love, there's nothin' doin'.
I will die without love.
Without love, I am an island all by myself in a heartbreak sea.
Without love, there's no denyin' I am dyin' without love.
For there is nowhere I can run and there is no hidin' place,
Stickin' out like a sore thumb by that gloomy look upon my face.
Without love, I'm incomplete.
Without love, I am not whole.
Without love, I'm barely on my feet.
I am dyin' without love.

For there is nowhere I can run.
I am dyin' without love.

Subject: Lyr Add: OLD APACHE SQUAW (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 10:53 AM

This song was mentioned by kendall on 26-Sep-2001:
(By the way, I think the term "squaw" is considered derogatory nowadays.)


OLD APACHE SQUAW
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Songs of Our Soil" (1959)

Old Apache squaw, how many long lean years you saw?
How many bitter winter nights shiverin' in a cold tepee, shiverin' in a cold tepee?
Old Apache squaw, how many hungry kids you saw?
How many bloody warriors runnin' to the sea, fleein' to the sea?

Well, now they tell me that you saw Cochise
When he made his last stand.
He said: "The next white man that sees my face
Is gonna be a dead white man."

Old Apache squaw, how many broken hearts you saw?
Have you had misty eyes for years?
Could that mist be tears? Could that mist be tears?

Well, now they tell me that you saw Cochise
When he made his last stand
He said, "The next white man that sees my face
Is gonna be a dead white man"

Old Apache squaw, how many broken hearts you saw?
You've had misty eyes for years.
Could that mist be tears? Could that mist be tears?
Old Apache squaw.

Subject: Lyr Add: HANK AND JOE AND ME (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 10:57 AM

This song was quoted by kendall on 26-Sep-2001, although he didn't know the title:


HANK AND JOE AND ME
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Songs of Our Soil" (1959)

In the desert where we searched for gold,
The days are hot; the nights are cold.
Hank and Joe and me walked on
So bold and brave and free.
For days and days, we fought the heat.
I got so thirsty and I got so weak,
And when I fell 'cause I couldn't go,
I heard Hank say to Joe:

"He's dyin' (dyin', dyin')
For water.
Hear him cryin' (cryin', cryin')
For water.

"Well, lay him down in the dust and sand."
He said, "Joe, you know he's a dyin' man.
Leave him there and let him die.
I can't stand to hear him cry
For water.
I don't remember how long I lay,
But when I awoke, it was the break of day.
Buzzards circled miles ahead.
I knew Hank and Joe were dead.
My eyes were dimmed but I could see
A bed of gold nuggets under me.
Now I know that it won't be long
Till they decorate my bones.

'Cause I'm dyin' (dyin', dyin')
For water.
Can't help cryin' (cryin', cryin')
For water.

Well, they laid me down in the dust and sand.
He said: "Joe, you know he's a dyin' man.
Leave him there and let him die.
I can't stand to hear him cry
For water."
He couldn't stand to hear me cry
For water.

Subject: Lyr Add: GOIN' BY THE BOOK (from Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 11:52 AM

This song was mentioned by headeast on 29-Jan-2006:


GOIN' BY THE BOOK
Words and music by Chester Lester
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "The Mystery of Life" (1990)

You can see it in the movies and the paper and the TV news.
Somebody's army is always on the move.
There's gonna be a battle; the lines have been drawn; they got guns an' tanks an' planes.
The wells have gone dry and the water is bad and the air is acid rain.

There's war after war and rumors of war from the east.
There's a rumblin' in the ground and they're talkin' about the beast.
Good mothers cry 'cause the rivers run high with the blood of too many sons.
Some people say peace is on the way, but the worst is still to come.

CHORUS: 'Cause the prophets wrote about it and Jesus spoke about it and John got to take a look.
And he told us what he saw and it's easy to see it's goin' by the book.
It's goin' by the book.

There's armies in the cities and the missiles stand ready for flight.
A pale horse rides like the wind across the night.
And that rumblin' in the desert like thunder gettin' closer are the trumpets gettin' ready to blow.
There's gonna be a shout that'll wake the dead; we better be ready to go. CHORUS

Subject: Lyr Add: WALKING THE BLUES (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 12:21 PM

This song was mentioned by AR282 on 13-Feb-2006:


WALKING THE BLUES
Words and music by Johnny Cash and Robert Lunn
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "The Legend" (2005)

Well I went down the store; I got some brand-new shoes.
I told 'em: "Make the leather tough; I gotta walk the blues."

CHORUS: Walkin the blues, I'm walkin the blues all day, all day long,
I'm wearin' out my shoes but I'm walkin' the blues away.

Well my baby's got a heart like a cold north wind.
I walk until I find 'er, bring 'er back again.

CHORUS: I'm walkin' the blues....

Well, now, the man down at the station, he won't even talk.
He said: "If you ain't got no money, boy, then you gotta walk."

CHORUS: That's why I'm walkin' the blues....


[Also recorded by Maria Muldaur on "Johnny's Blues: A Tribute to Johnny Cash" (2003)]

Subject: Lyr Add: MAN IN BLACK (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 12:56 PM

This song was mentioned by Muttley on 16-Feb-2007:


MAN IN BLACK
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Man in Black" (1971)

Well, you wonder why I always dress in black,
Why you never see bright colors on my back,
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone?
Well, there's a reason for the things that I have on.

I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down,
Livin' in the hopeless, hungry side o' town.
I wear it for the prisoner who has long paid for his crime
But is there because he's a victim of the times.

I wear the black for those who've never read
Or listened to the words that Jesus said
About the road to happiness through love and charity.
Why, you'd think He's talkin' straight to you and me.

Well, we're doin' mighty fine, I do suppose,
In our streak o' lightnin' cars and fancy clothes,
But just so we're reminded of the ones who are held back,
Up front there ought to be a man in black.

I wear it for the sick and lonely old,
For the reckless ones whose bad trip left them cold.
I wear the black in mournin' for the lives that could have been.
Each week we lose a hundred fine young men.

And, I wear it for the thousands who have died
Believin' that the Lord was on their side.
I wear it for another hundred thousand who have died
Believin' that we all were on their side.

Well, there's things that never will be right, I know,
And things need changin' ev'rywhere you go,
But till we start to make a move to make a few things right,
You'll never see me wear a suit of white.

Ah, I'd love to wear a rainbow ev'ry day
And tell the world that ev'rything's okay,
But I'll try to carry off a little darkness on my back.
Till things are brighter, I'm the Man In Black.

Subject: Lyr Add: MEAN EYED CAT (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 01:03 PM

This song was mentioned by fumblefingers on 09-Mar-2007:


MEAN EYED CAT
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "Sings Hank Williams and Other Favorite Tunes" (1960)

1. I give my woman half my money at the gen'ral store.
I said: "Now buy a little groceries and don't spend no more."
Then she paid ten dollars for a ten-cent hat
And got some store-bought cat food for her mean-eyed cat.
When I give her ten more dollars for a one-way ticket,
She was mad as she could be.
Then I bet ten more that if she ever left,
She'd come a-crawlin' back to me.

2. When I woke up this mornin' and I turned my head,
There wasn't a cotton-pickin' thing on her side of the bed.
I found a little old note where her head belonged.
It said: "Dear John, honey, baby, I'm long gone."
When I heard a whistle blowin' and the big wheels a-turnin',
I was scared as I could be.
I put on my overalls and I headed for town.
I'm gonna bring her back with me.

3. I asked the man down at the station if he had seen her there.
I told him all about her pretty eyes and long blonde hair.
He spit his tobacco, said: "I'll be dad-blamed.
I b'lieve I did see her leavin' on the east-bound train."
I bought a round-trip ticket on the east-bound train.
I was broke as I could be,
But when I come back, I got to buy another ticket,
Gonna bring her back with me.

4. Well, I got off the train somewhere in Arkansas,
And I worked up the guts to call my mother-in-law.
She said: "I'll tell you where she is, if you act right.
She's workin' four-to-twelve at Trucker's World tonight."
Well, when I walked in, she saw me and she took off her apron
And she grabbed her goin'-home hat.
She bought a ticket with her tips. Now we're curled up on the sofa,
Me and her and that mean-eyed cat.


[The recording on "Sings Hank Williams and Other Favorite Tunes" omits verse 4. The recording on "American II: Unchained" omits the second half of verse 1.]

Subject: Lyr Add: SMILING BILL MCCALL (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 01:08 PM

This song was mentioned by fumblefingers on 09-Mar-2007:


SMILING BILL MCCALL
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (Columbia 4-41618, 1960)

Well, the whole town listened to the radio
For the Smilin' Bill McCall Show.
Ev'ryone in Nashville
Was listenin' to Bill.

"I don't want to be layin' in bed
When they pronounce me dead."

He'd stand and breathe in the microphone
With his guitar hangin' to his knee bone.
All the girls just sat and dreamed
When Bill began to sing.

"I don't want my hat to be hung
When my last song is sung."

But he never let fame go to his head
"This is Smilin' Bill McCall," he said.
"Gonna pick and sing a song or two
Y'all listen till I'm through.

"And if you're at the house or in your car,
Tune in this time tomorr'."

To all the boys he was a big hero.
They'd glue their ears to the radio,
Then talk in a most unusual drawl
Imitatin' Bill McCall.

"Daddy, can I get me a guitar?
'Cause I want to be a star."

The girls would say of Bill McCall:
"Why, I bet he's over six feet tall.
Handsomest man in Nashville!"
They said of Smilin' Bill.

He won't be plantin' potato slips
When he cashes in his chips.

Then one day Bill didn't make the show.
Didn't even show up for a week or so.
The station's boss said to City Hall:
"Find Smilin' Bill McCall."

It won't be hard to track him down.
He's got the biggest feet in town.

Well, there's a creek that runs through Nashville
And on the bank they found Smilin' Bill.
He's committin' suicide,
But they grabbed him 'fore he tried.

"Turn me loose, I'm 'onna jump," he screamed,
"'Cause I can't stand that theme.

"Let this be my final breath,
'Cause I'm scared to half to death."

The big brave Smilin' Bill McCall
Is only four feet tall.

"I'd rather be in the river dead
Than to hear 'em laughin' at my bald head."

Subject: Lyr Add: WHAT DO I CARE (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 01:22 PM

This song was mentioned by Black Hawk on 08-Apr-2007:


WHAT DO I CARE
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (Columbia 4-41251, 1958)

When I'm all through, if I haven't been what they think I should be,
If the total isn't high enough when they figure me,
When I grow old, if there's no gray from worry in my hair,
What do I care? What do I care?

[§] What do I care, just as long as you were mine a little while?
When the road was long and weary, you gave me a few good mile.
What do I care if I miss a goal because I make a slip?
I'll still be satisfied because I tasted your sweet lips.

What do I care if I never have much money?
And sometimes my table looks a little bare?
Anything that I may miss is made up for each time we kiss.
You love me and I love you, so what do I care?

[Repeat from §.]

Subject: Lyr Add: FAIR WEATHER FRIENDS (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 01:37 PM

This song was mentioned by Mike Miller on 04-Apr-2007:


FAIR WEATHER FRIENDS
Words and music by Joseph Allen & John R. Cash.
As recorded by Johnny Cash on "The Adventures of Johnny Cash" (1982)

CHORUS: Fair-weather friends, fair-weather sailors
Will leave you stranded on life's shore,
But one true friend who really loves you
Is worth the pain your heart endures.

1. We never know which way the wind will blow
Nor when and where the next turmoil will be,
But he's a solid rock in trouble's flow
And he holds out a saving hand for me. CHORUS

2. He'll be your shelter in the night.
He'll be an anchor in the storm.
When you can't find your way, he'll be your light.
In the chilly wind of doubt, he'll keep you warm. CHORUS TWICE

Subject: Lyr Add: NEXT IN LINE (Johnny Cash)
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 08 Dec 19 - 01:55 PM

This song was mentioned by James on 20-Oct-2003:


NEXT IN LINE
Words and music by Johnny Cash
As recorded by Johnny Cash as a single (Sun 266, 1957)

The next in line will be someone who loves you.
The next in line is me, 'cause it's my time.
Now how long will it be
Till you end my misery?
You better be prepared to linger when you get to me.

The time has come for you to love me, if you ever are.
Come to me now, so I can make you mine.
I watched them rush to you so fast.
I waited so I'd be the last.
It's my time 'cause I'm the next in line.

The next in line will want your love forever.
The next in line is me and here I am.
Give me a day or two
And I'll get through to you.
You'd 'a' been my baby long ago, if you'd turned down a few.

This ol' heart can't take much more waitin' for your love.
I'm tired and we're runnin' short o' time.
I'll make you love me more
Than ev'ryone before.
My time to try 'cause I'm the next in line.

I stood and watched you take their hearts and break 'em one by one.
My time was comin', so I waited while you had your fun.
Now I'm through a-waitin' way behind.
It's my time 'cause I'm the next in line.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 17 Dec 19 - 01:27 PM

These are all the Johnny Cash songs I can find that have been posted at Mudcat.
And by that I mean recorded by him, not necessarily written by him.

A Backstage Pass
A Boy Named Sue
A Cowboy's Prayer
A Letter from Home
After Taxes
As Long as the Grass Shall Grow
Bad News
Ballad of a Teenage Queen
Ballad of Barbara
Ballad of Boot Hill
Beans for Breakfast
Belshazzar
Big River
Bird on a Wire
Born to Lose
Breaking Bread
Busted
Chattanooga Sugar Babe
Christmas Time's a-Comin'
Cocaine Blues
Cold Cold Heart
Come In Stranger
Cotton Fields
Cry, Cry, Cry
Daddy Sang Bass
Darlin' Companion
Delia's Gone
Dirty Old Egg-Sucking Dog
Doin' My Time
Don't Go Near the Water
Don't Step on Mother's Roses
Don't Take Your Guns to Town
Drive On
Drums
Fair Weather Friends
Field of Diamonds
Five Feet High and Rising
Flesh and Blood
Flushed from the Bathroom of Your Heart
Folsom Prison Blues
Foolish Questions
Forty Shades of Green
Frankie's Man Johnny
Get Rhythm
Girl from the North Country
Give My Love to Rose
God's Gonna Cut You Down
Goin' by the Book
Gone Girl
Green Green Grass of Home
Guess Things Happen That Way
Hank and Joe and Me
Happiness Is You
Hardin Wouldn't Run
Here Comes That Rainbow Again
Hey Porter
Highwayman
Hurt
I Am a Pilgrim
I Got Stripes
I Promise You
I Saw a Man
I Still Miss Someone
I Walk the Line
I Was There When It Happened
I'm Gonna Sit on the Porch and Pick on My Old Guitar
In the Jailhouse Now
Jackson
Johnny Reb
Let the Train Blow the Whistle
Loading Coal
Long Black Veil
Lorena
Man in Black
Mary of the Wild Moor
Mean Eyed Cat
Mister Garfield
Ned Kelly
New Moon over Jamaica
Next in Line
No One Will Ever Know
Nobody
Old Apache Squaw
On the Evening Train
One More Ride
One Piece at a Time
Orange Blossom Special
Orphan of the Road
Peace in the Valley
Pickin' Time
Put the Sugar to Bed
Ragged Old Flag
Remember Me (I'm the One Who Loves You)
Remember the Alamo
Ring of Fire
Rock Island Line
Rose of My Heart
Route 1 Box 144
Run Softly Blue River
Rusty Cage
Sam Hall
San Quentin
Sea of Heartbreak
Seal It in My Heart and Mind
September When It Comes
Shantytown
Smiling Bill McCall
Straight A's in Love
Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down
Taller than Trees
Tears in the Holston River
Tennessee Flat-Top Box
Thanksgiving Prayer
That Old Wheel
The Ballad of Ira Hayes
The Big Battle
The Caretaker
The Chicken in Black
The Christmas Guest
The City of New Orleans
The Cremation of Sam McGee
The Engineer's Dying Child
The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face
The Fourth Man
The Frozen Logger
The Man Comes Around
The One on the Right Is on the Left
The One Rose (That's Left in My Heart)
The Rebel – Johnny Yuma
The Shifting Whispering Sands
The Troubadour
The Wall
The Walls of a Prison
These Are My People
Thoughts on the Flag
To Beat the Devil
Transfusion Blues
Understand Your Man
Waiting on the Far Side Banks of Jordan
Walking the Blues
Wanted Man
What Do I Care
When I Take My Vacation in Heaven
When It's Springtime in Alaska
Who Kept the Sheep
Wings in the Morning
Without Love
Woodcarver

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: frogprince
Date: 19 Dec 19 - 08:55 PM

A friend sang "Waiting on the Far Side Banks of Jordon" at the memorial service for my wife Judy, just over two year ago now.

Subject: RE: Johnny Cash Songs
From: Joe MacGillivray
Date: 27 Dec 19 - 05:03 AM

Big River. I see mentioned above that someone was working on the F#7 to B7 transition. I'm not sure how well known this is, but Johnny also played another chord in this song that doesn't normally appear in tabs online. It's at the end of each verse.

When that e string 3-3-3-0 riff at the end of each verse is played, (and when that phrase is played in the solo) he plays an interesting G / E like chord, where he puts his ring finger on the third fret of the E and plays this E/G chord. (E with a G bass, to coincide with the note of the riff).

I hope I'm describing it right.

I've been a huge fan of Johnny's for years. He has been a tremendous influence on my music.