Johnny Cash – Folsom Prison Blues (1968)

About the song

“Folsom Prison Blues” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless ballad that has resonated with audiences for decades. Performed by the legendary Johnny Cash, this iconic track paints a vivid picture of life behind bars, capturing the raw emotions, longing, and hope that prisoners often experience.

Cash, known for his gravelly voice and deeply personal lyrics, delivers a haunting performance that perfectly complements the song’s somber theme. The lyrics, written by Merle Travis, evoke a sense of isolation and despair, as the narrator recounts his longing for freedom and his regret over past actions. The imagery is powerful and evocative, transporting listeners to the cold, unforgiving world of Folsom Prison.

The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes and Cash’s masterful delivery. The lyrics resonate with people from all walks of life, as they explore the human experience of loss, regret, and the desire for redemption. Cash’s emotive performance adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the song, making it a truly unforgettable listening experience.

“Folsom Prison Blues” was first recorded in 1955, and it quickly became a hit, solidifying Cash’s reputation as a rising star in country music. The song’s success led to Cash’s iconic live performance at Folsom State Prison in 1968, which was later released as a double album. The album’s popularity further cemented Cash’s status as a cultural icon and ensured that “Folsom Prison Blues” would remain a beloved classic for generations to come.

In conclusion, “Folsom Prison Blues” is a masterpiece of songwriting and performance that continues to captivate audiences today. Johnny Cash’s haunting vocals and the song’s powerful lyrics have made it a timeless anthem of incarceration and hope. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Cash or new to his music, “Folsom Prison Blues” is a must-listen that will leave a lasting impression.

Video

Lyrics

I hear the train a-comin’
It’s rollin’ ’round the bend
And I ain’t seen the sunshine since I don’t know when
I’m stuck in Folsom Prison
And time keeps draggin’ on
But that train keeps a-rollin’
On down to San Antone

When I was just a baby
My mama told me
Son, always be a good boy
Don’t ever play with guns

But I shot a man in Reno
Just to watch him die
When I hear that whistle blowin’
I hang my head and cry

I bet there’s rich folks eatin’ from a fancy dinin’ car
They’re probably drinkin’ coffee
And smokin’ big cigars
Well, I know I had it comin’
I know I can’t be free
But those people keep a-movin’
And that’s what tortures me

Well, if they freed me from this prison
If that railroad train was mine
I bet I’d move it on a little farther down the line
Far from Folsom Prison
That’s where I want to stay
And I’d let that lonesome whistle
Blow my blues away