Johnny Cash's Unreleased Demos Revived in 'Songwriter'

In a touching tribute to the late Johnny Cash, a collection of demos recorded in 1993 will be released as "Songwriter" on June 28th under Mercury Nashville/UMe.

These recordings, birthed from a period of transition in Cash's illustrious career, were lovingly restored by his son, John Carter Cash, and producer David "Fergie" Ferguson.

John Carter Cash reminisces, "Dad’s advice with anything, whether it was life or making music, was always ‘follow your heart."

Originally tucked away after a productive session at LSI Studios in Nashville, these demos found new life when John Carter Cash stumbled upon them, stripped back to Cash's raw vocals and acoustic guitar. With the help of a curated ensemble of musicians who had shared the stage with Cash, including Marty Stuart and the late Dave Roe, the tracks were revitalized at the Cash Cabin in Hendersonville, Tenn., a cherished haven for the iconic artist.

View the original article to see embedded media.

The lead single, "Well Alright," bursts forth with Cash's signature vigor, regaling listeners with a humorous tale of love found in unexpected places. John Carter Cash reflects on the collaborative process, emphasizing the intuitive bond between Cash and his trusted musicians, stating, "Nobody plays Cash better than Marty Stuart, and Dave Roe of course played with dad for many years."

Among the album's gems, "Hello Out There" stands out as a poignant ode to human connection, while tracks like "Poor Valley Girl" and "Like A Soldier" delve into Cash's personal struggles and triumphs.

Reflecting on Cash's enduring legacy, John Carter Cash shares, "It’s not about selling Johnny Cash, he would be doing that himself. I’m grateful that this record is here, even if it was only for me, because it reminds me of who my father was."

For fans old and new, "Songwriter" promises a rediscovery of Cash's unparalleled storytelling prowess.

Fergie reflects, "I think this record is the way I would have liked to have made one if I would have ever been in charge of one, before Rick Rubin or after Jack Clement."

With its release, "Songwriter" pays homage to Cash's indelible mark on American music history, ensuring that his timeless voice and narratives endure for generations to come.

Listen to “Well Alright” and pre-order "Songwriter" at https://JohnnyCash.lnk.to/SongwriterPR .

JOHNNY CASH – SONGWRITER TRACKLISTING

CD/DIGITAL
1. Hello Out There
2. Spotlight
3. Drive On
4. I Love You Tonite
5. Have You Ever Been to Little Rock?
6. Well Alright
7. She Sang Sweet Baby James
8. Poor Valley Girl
9. Soldier Boy
10. Sing It Pretty Sue
11. Like A Soldier

VINYL
Side A

1. Hello Out There
2. Spotlight
3. Drive On
4. I Love You Tonite
5. Have You Ever Been to Little Rock?

Side B

1. Well Alright
2. She Sang Sweet Baby James
3. Poor Valley Girl
4. Soldier Boy
5. Sing It Pretty Sue
6. Like A Soldier