About the song
“San Quentin” by Johnny Cash is a powerful and iconic song that captures the essence of Cash’s legendary performances in prisons. Written by Cash himself, the song was recorded live at the San Quentin State Prison in California in 1969 as part of his album *At San Quentin*. It quickly became one of Cash’s signature songs, reflecting his connection with incarcerated audiences and his commitment to performing for those who were often overlooked by society.
The song’s lyrics convey a sense of defiance and rebellion, with Cash addressing the inmates directly and acknowledging their struggles and frustrations. The gritty, raw energy of the live recording adds to the song’s intensity, capturing the tension and emotion of the moment.
“San Quentin” was a commercial success for Cash, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and becoming one of his best-selling singles. Its popularity was further solidified by Cash’s electrifying performance of the song at the prison, which was captured on film and later broadcast on television.
For Cash, “San Quentin” was more than just a song; it was a symbol of his belief in redemption and his dedication to using his platform to reach those in need. His performances at prisons like San Quentin helped to humanize inmates and draw attention to issues of criminal justice reform, earning him praise and admiration from fans and activists alike.
Even today, “San Quentin” remains a beloved classic in Cash’s catalog, revered for its authenticity and its portrayal of the human experience behind bars. Its enduring popularity serves as a testament to Cash’s legacy as a musician who used his talent to shed light on the struggles of the marginalized and disenfranchised.
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Lyrics
San Quentin, you’ve been livin’ hell to me
You’ve blistered me since nineteen sixty three
I’ve seen ’em come and go and I’ve seen them die
And long ago I stopped askin’ whySan Quentin, I hate every inch of you.
You’ve cut me and you scarred me through and through.
And I’ll walk out a wiser weaker man;
Mister Congressman you can’t understand.San Quentin, what good do you think you do?
Do you think I’ll be different when you’re through?
You bend my heart and mind and you warp my soul,
And your stone walls turn my blood a little cold.San Quentin, may you rot and burn in hell.
May your walls fall and may I live to tell.
May all the world forget you ever stood.
And may all the world regret you did no good.San Quentin, I hate every inch of you.