Johnny Cash – Ghost Riders in the Sky

About the song

(Ghost) Riders in the Sky is a song that has been covered by many artists, but it is most closely associated with Johnny Cash. The song was written by Stan Jones in 1948 and was originally recorded by Vaughn Monroe. However, Cash’s version, released in 1979, is the definitive one.

The song tells the story of a group of cowboys who are chased by a herd of ghostly cattle. The cowboys are led by a character known as the “Ghost Rider,” who is described as having a “fiery heart” and “eyes of blue.” The song is set in the American West and features imagery of the desert, canyons, and mesas.

The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery and symbolism. The “ghost riders” can be seen as a metaphor for death or the unknown. The song’s driving rhythm and Cash’s deep, resonant voice create a sense of excitement and suspense.

“(Ghost) Riders in the Sky” is a classic Western song that has stood the test of time. It is a song about the American West, but it is also a song about life, death, and the unknown. The song’s haunting melody and Cash’s powerful vocals make it a truly unforgettable listening experience.

Here are some additional details about the song and its history:

• The song was inspired by a campfire story that Jones heard while he was working as a ranch hand in Arizona.
• The song’s lyrics have been interpreted in many different ways. Some people believe that the song is about a group of cattle rustlers who are being chased by the law. Others believe that the song is about a group of ghosts who are riding through the desert.
• The song has been used in many different films and television shows, including “Thelma and Louise,” “Dances with Wolves,” and “The X-Files.”
• “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky” is one of Johnny Cash’s most popular songs. It has been covered by many other artists, including Willie Nelson, Bruce Springsteen, and The Flaming Lips.

If you are a fan of Johnny Cash or Western music, then you should definitely check out “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky.” It is a classic song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Video

Lyrics

“(Ghost) Riders In The Sky”

 

An old cowboy went ridin’ 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
Plowin’ through the ragged skies, and up a 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-oh, yippie-yi-aie!
Ghost riders in the sky

Their faces gaunt, their eyes were blurred, their shirts all soaked with sweat
He’s ridin’ 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 snortin’ fire, as they ride on, hear their cry

As the riders loped on by him, he heard one call his name
“If you wanna save your soul from Hell, a-ridin’ on our range
Then cowboy, change your ways today, or with us you will ride
Tryin’ to catch the Devil’s herd, across these endless skies”

Yippie-yi-oh, yippie-yi-aie!
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky