About the song
“Ghost Riders in the Sky” by Johnny Cash is a powerful and evocative rendition of a classic American cowboy song. Originally written by Stan Jones in 1948, the song has been covered by numerous artists over the decades, but Johnny Cash’s version, recorded in 1979 for his album *Silver*, stands out for its deep, resonant vocals and haunting atmosphere.
The song tells the tale of a cowboy who witnesses a ghostly herd of red-eyed cattle thundering across the sky, driven by doomed spirits of cowboys. The spectral imagery and the moral of the song, which warns the cowboy to change his ways or join the ghost riders, resonate deeply with themes of redemption and consequence, familiar territory for Johnny Cash.
Cash’s interpretation of “Ghost Riders in the Sky” is particularly memorable for its atmospheric arrangement and his distinctive voice, which imbues the song with a sense of foreboding and timelessness. The chilling melody and the vivid storytelling in the lyrics are enhanced by Cash’s delivery, making it a standout track on the *Silver* album, which celebrated the 25th anniversary of Cash’s career with Columbia Records.
Though the song did not chart as high as some of Cash’s other hits, it remains a beloved piece in his extensive catalog. The *Silver* album itself reached number 28 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, showcasing Cash’s continued relevance and popularity in the late 1970s.
“Ghost Riders in the Sky” has a rich history and has been interpreted in various styles, but Johnny Cash’s version is often cited as one of the most compelling. His ability to convey the eerie and cautionary tale with such conviction highlights his talent as a storyteller and his deep connection to the American folk and country traditions.
For fans of Johnny Cash and classic American music, “Ghost Riders in the Sky” offers a thrilling and haunting listening experience. It captures the essence of Cash’s musical legacy—his profound voice, his storytelling prowess, and his ability to make timeless songs his own. This rendition stands as a testament to Cash’s enduring influence and his unique ability to breathe new life into traditional songs.
Video
Lyrics
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
For he saw the riders coming hard and he heard their mournful cry
Yippie yi ooh
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 loped on by him he heard one call his name
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 ooh
Yippie yi yay
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost Riders in the sky