Big River

Johnny Cash

About Big River

"Big River" is a song written and originally recorded by Johnny Cash. Released as a single by Sun Records in 1958, it went as high as #4 on the Billboard country music charts and stayed on the charts for 14 weeks.


Year:
1976
116 
#1

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Now I taught the weeping willow how to cry,
And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.
And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you Big River.
Then I'm gonna sit right here until I die.

I met her accidentally in St. Paul (Minnesota).
And it tore me up every time I heard her drawl, Southern drawl.
Then I heard my dream was back Downstream cavortin' in Davenport,
And I followed you, Big River, when you called.

Then you took me to St. Louis later on (down the river).
A freighter said she's been here but she's gone, boy, she's gone.
I found her trail in Memphis, but she just walked up the block.
She raised a few eyebrows and then she went on down alone.

Now, won't you batter down by Baton Rouge, River Queen, roll it on.
Take that woman on down to New Orleans, New Orleans.
Go on, I've had enough, dump my blues down in the gulf.
She loves you, Big River, more than me.

Now I taught the weeping willow how to cry, cry, cry
And I showed the clouds how to cover up a clear blue sky.
And the tears that I cried for that woman are gonna flood you Big River.
Then I'm gonna sit right here until I die.

 Watch: New Singing Lesson Videos Can Make Anyone A Great Singer


Johnny Cash

John R. "Johnny" Cash (February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003), was an American singer-songwriter, actor, and author, who has been called one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Although he is primarily remembered as a country music icon, his songs and sound spanned many other genres including rockabilly and rock and roll—especially early in his career—as well as blues, folk, and gospel. This crossover appeal led to Cash being inducted in the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and Gospel Music Hall of Fame. more »

19 fans

Written by: Johnny R. Cash

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


12 facts about this song

Song Origin
"Big River" is a song written and originally recorded by legendary American country singer, Johnny Cash.
Released Date
The song was released as a single in February 1958.
Song Ranking
On its release, "Big River" reached the number 4 spot on the Billboard's Hot Country Singles chart.
Recording Studio
The song was recorded at the famous Sun Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, often referred to as the birthplace of rock 'n' roll.
Album Inclusion
Though released initially as a single, "Big River" was later included in Johnny Cash's album "Sings the Songs That Made Him Famous."
Songwriting
The song showcases Cash's unique songwriting skills, which often incorporate themes of love, loss, and travel.
Cover Versions
Many artists have performed cover versions of "Big River," including Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead and Willie Nelson.
Live Performances
Cash often performed "Big River" live in concert, making it a staple in his live show set lists.
Song Theme
Like many of Cash's songs, "Big River" has a storytelling style focusing on the protagonist's pursuit of his elusive love down the Mississippi River.
Duration
The original recording of "Big River" lasts 2 minutes and 31 seconds, typical for pop songs of that era.
Country Rock Influence
"Big River" is often revered as an example of how Cash could bring elements of rock and roll to country music.
Grammy Hall of Fame
In 2018, the song was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame, a special Grammy award established in 1973 to honor recordings that are at least twenty-five years old, and that have qualitative or historical significance.

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