About the song
Johnny Cash’s rendition of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a powerful testament to his commanding presence in the realm of American folk and country music. Originally a traditional folk song with roots in gospel music, Cash brought his iconic deep baritone and distinctive style to the track, infusing it with a sense of urgency and gravitas.
The song was included on Cash’s posthumous album “American V: A Hundred Highways,” released in 2006, after his passing in 2003. Despite being a traditional song, Cash’s rendition resonated deeply with modern audiences, reaching significant positions on various charts posthumously.
“God’s Gonna Cut You Down” features Cash’s trademark storytelling prowess, delivering a moralistic message about the consequences of one’s actions. The song’s sparse instrumentation and Cash’s authoritative vocals create a haunting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on listeners.
Throughout his career, Johnny Cash was renowned for his ability to connect with audiences through songs that explored themes of redemption, faith, and the human condition. His version of “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy as an artist who transcended genres and generations.
For fans of Johnny Cash’s work, “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” serves as a poignant reminder of his musical impact and his ability to imbue traditional songs with modern relevance. Whether you’re revisiting his catalog or discovering his music for the first time, this track exemplifies Cash’s ability to deliver timeless messages through his distinctive voice and storytelling prowess.
Video
Lyrics
… Oh my God
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
… Well my goodness gracious let me tell you the news
My head’s been wet with the midnight dew
I’ve been down on bended knee
Talkin’ to the man from Galilee
… He spoke to me in the voice so sweet
I thought I heard the shuffle of the angel’s feet
He called my name and my heart stood still
When he said, “John, go do my will!”
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Well you may throw your rock and hide your hand
Workin’ in the dark against your fellow man
But as sure as God made black and white
What’s down in the dark will be brought to the light
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
… Oh yeah
Cut him down
Cut him down
Cut him down