About the song
Johnny Cash, the man in black, has a unique ability to weave tales of the American West into his music. One of his most iconic songs, “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” is a haunting and unforgettable ballad that has captured the imaginations of audiences for decades.
The song’s origins can be traced back to a cowboy ballad from the early 20th century. The lyrics tell the story of a cowboy who, after a night of drinking and gambling, encounters a ghostly rider and his spectral horses. The rider warns the cowboy of the impending doom that awaits him in the afterlife. The song’s eerie atmosphere, coupled with Cash’s deep and resonant voice, creates a chilling and evocative experience.
Cash’s version of “Ghost Riders in the Sky” was released in 1955 and quickly became a hit. The song’s popularity was likely due in part to its timeless themes of mortality, redemption, and the Wild West. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world where the line between life and death is blurred, and the consequences of one’s actions can be far-reaching.
The song’s haunting melody and Cash’s powerful performance have made it a classic of country music. The song’s popularity has only grown over the years, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of all ages. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cash or simply appreciate great music, “Ghost Riders in the Sky” is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Well, an old cowboy went riding out one dark and windy day
Upon a ridge he rested as he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd of red eyed cows he saw
Plowing through the ragged sky
And up the cloudy draw
Their brands were still on fire and their hooves were made of steel
Their horns were black and shiny and their hot breath he could feel
A bolt of fear went through him as they thundered through the sky
He saw the riders coming hard
And he heard their mournful cry
Yippie-yi-ay (yippie-yi-ay)
Yippie-yi-yay (yippie-yi-yay)
Ghost riders in the sky
Their faces gaunt, their eyes were blurred, their shirts all soaked with sweat
He’s riding hard to catch that herd, but he ain’t caught ’em yet
‘Cause they’ve got to ride forever on that range up in the sky
On horses snorting fire
As they ride on hear their cry
As the riders passed on by him he heard one call his name (Merle Haggard)
If you want to save your soul from hell a-riding on our range
Then cowboy change your ways today or with us you will ride
Trying to catch the devil’s herd
Across these endless skies
Yippie-yi-ay (yippie-yi-ay)
Yippie-yi-yay (yippie-yi-yay)
You lost a “yippie” there
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky