I Walk the Line

Johnny Cash

About I Walk the Line

"I Walk the Line" is a song written and recorded in 1956 by Johnny Cash. After three attempts with moderate chart ratings, it became Cash's first number one hit on the Billboard charts. It reached number 17 on the US pop charts. It remained on the record charts for over 43 weeks, and sold over 2 million copies. It has also been used on many LP's released from Sun Records, such as With His Hot and Blue Guitar, Sings the Songs That Made Him Famous, and Sings Hank Williams. It was the title song for a 1970 film starring Gregory Peck and a 2005 biopic of Cash starring Joaquin Phoenix.  


Year:
2006
2:57
4,191 
#4

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I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line

I find it very, very easy to be true
I find myself alone when each day's through
Yes, I'll admit that I'm a fool for you
Because you're mine, I walk the line

As sure as night is dark and day is light
I keep you on my mind both day and night
And happiness I've known proves that it's right
Because you're mine, I walk the line

You've got a way to keep me on your side
You give me cause for love that I can't hide
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
Because you're mine, I walk the line

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you're mine, I walk the line

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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 »

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Written by: Johnny Cash

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

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14 facts about this song

Song Basics
"I Walk the Line" is a song that was originally written and recorded by Johnny Cash. It became one of his signature songs.
Joaquin Phoenix Connection
Actor Joaquin Phoenix performed the song in the 2005 film "Walk the Line", which is a biopic of Johnny Cash.
Chart Success
Johnny Cash's original version of "I Walk the Line" reached number one on the Billboard charts in 1956.
Film Context
In the movie, "Walk the Line", Joaquin Phoenix played the role of Johnny Cash and re-performed many of Cash's songs including "I Walk the Line".
Lyrics Significance
The song's lyrics are a testament to Cash's own commitment to his first wife, Vivian Liberto, promising fidelity and reassurance of his constant love.
Joaquin Phoenix's Preparation
To prepare for the role, Joaquin Phoenix practiced guitar and learned to sing in Cash’s signature style.
Grammy Hall of Fame
In 2005, "I Walk the Line" was included in the Grammy Hall of Fame as a song that has "qualitative or historical significance."
Song Recording
The original recording of the song featured Johnny Cash's distinctive "boom-chicka-boom" rhythm, which was a unique characteristic of his music.
Filmmaker Recognition
For his performance in "Walk the Line", Joaquin Phoenix received a Golden Globe for Best Actor and was nominated for an Academy Award.
Song Renditions
There have been several other renditions of "I Walk the Line", by artists such as Dean Martin, Live, and Halsey, demonstrating the song's enduring appeal and influence.
Universal Acclaim
The scene in "Walk the Line" where Phoenix's Cash first performs "I Walk the Line" for a record producer is considered one of the highlights of the film, and it has been praised for its authenticity and emotion.
Johnny Cash's Approval
Before his death, Johnny Cash approved of Joaquin Phoenix playing him in the movie, demonstrating his belief in Phoenix's capability to portray his life accurately.
Phoenix's Singing
All the singing in "Walk the Line" was done live and was not dubbed in post-production, including Phoenix's performances. This approach of 'live singing' was highly appreciated and respected.
Reba McEntire Connection
Country singer Reba McEntire's version of "I Walk the Line" was used as the theme song for her 2001 television show, which demonstrates the song's continued influence in popular culture.

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