Johnny Cash’s “Sixteen Tons”: A New Twist on an Old Favorite

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In 1987, country superstar Johnny Cash released his version of the classic hit song “Sixteen Tons” as part of his album Johnny Cash Is Coming to Town. 

The song was originally released in 1947 by Merle Travis as part of his album Folk Songs of the Hills. It was considered one of the most covered songs ever, with big artists like Tennessee Ernie Ford, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash releasing their own versions of it. 

Although Tennessee Ernie Ford’s cover is the most famous rendition, Johnny Cash’s version nonetheless is a top favorite.

As we take a look at Cash’s version, we’ll eventually find out how amazingly he put a new twist on an old favorite.

Johnny Cash’s Amazing Cover!

Written by Merle Travis, the song is considered one of the most uniquely arranged songs of all time. Although it is regarded as a country single, its clarinet-driven pop arrangement makes it quite advanced for its time. 

Because of this, many country artists have shot their chances at releasing their versions of the song. Johnny Cash’s version, in particular, caught listeners’ attention because of how amazingly he changed the original style of the song seamlessly. 

Compared to the original, where the pop hint is quite prominent, Cash incorporated his country flair into the song and transformed it into a full-blown country hit. His raspy country voice gave the song that extra flavor – making it to the list of Johnny Cash’s amazing releases.

Music and books

Shop Johnny Cash

• The Essential Johnny CashVinylWith “I Walk the Line” and “Big River”See it on Amazon →
• At Folsom PrisonVinylHis 1968 live album, recorded at Folsom State PrisonSee it on Amazon →
• Cash: The AutobiographyBookHis autobiographySee it on Amazon →

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Although the original was undoubtedly a full package on its own, his version still captured listeners’ attention because of how amazingly he created something new that sounded fresh yet still felt like the original.

So if you haven’t checked out Johnny Cash’s amazing performance of “Sixteen Tons,” you can watch his full performance below. 

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