The Matador

Johnny Cash

About The Matador

"The Matador" is a song co-written and recorded by American country music artist Johnny Cash. It was released in September 1963 as the first single from the album Heart of Cash. The single peaked at number two on the country charts. "The Matador" also crossed over to the Hot 100, peaking at number 44. The song was written by Cash and his wife, June Carter Cash.


Year:
1995
118 
#1

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The crowd is waiting for the bullfight
Matador
My final fight the place is packed once more
But Anita won't throw me a rose this fight
The one she wears is not for me tonight

She's watching now with her new love I know
Walk proud and slow
Be strong and sure give the crowd a show
They want blood you know!
You're still their idol as you were before
Kill just one more!
Remind Anita, you're the greatest Matador

The time is come, forget Anita in the stands
Be a tall and strong and brave and noble man
Be better than you've never been before
Make this your greatest moment Matador

She's watching now with her new love I know
Walk proud and slow
Be strong and sure give the crowd a show
They want blood you know!
You're still their idol as you were before
Kill just one more!
Remind Anita, you're the greatest Matador

 Become A Better Singer In Only 30 Days, With Easy Video Lessons!


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: DOUGLAS HERON ADAMS, KATIE HARKINS, NESTOR DAVID MATTHEWS

Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind


10 facts about this song

Release Date
"The Matador" was released in December 1963.
Billboard Chart History
The song managed to achieve considerable success. It peaked at number two on Billboard's country charts.
Song's Genre
The song falls under the Country genre, a style Johnny Cash is iconically known for.
Album Name
"The Matador" was included in the album "Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash", which was his sixteenth album at the time.
Written by
Songwriting credits go to Johnny Cash and June Carter, his wife at the time.
Background
The song is about a tormented Matador who's caught in a constant battle with death and has a deep inner struggle, reflecting on the pained life of a performer.
Unexpected Source of Inspiration
The song's melody was inspired by a song Cash heard in a dream while he was in Spain called "Winds of the Old Days."
Sales and Reception
"The Matador" achieved considerable commercial success despite its unusual theme for a country song, further establishing Johnny Cash's versatility as an artist.
Award Recognition
Though it didn't win any awards directly, the album it was part of, "Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash", received great acclaim in the music industry.
Emotional Depth
Like most of Cash’s songs, "The Matador" is filled with deep emotional understanding, underlining the unique perspective the artist consistently offered in his music.

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    The Matador

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    Top Hot 100 Songs 1963

    Billboard #44


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