About the song
“Tennessee Flat Top Box” by Rosanne Cash is a vibrant and engaging song that holds a special place in the hearts of country music enthusiasts. This song, originally written and performed by Rosanne’s father, the legendary Johnny Cash, was revived by Rosanne in 1987. Her rendition brought new life to the classic tune, infusing it with her unique style and grace.
Rosanne Cash included “Tennessee Flat Top Box” on her album “King’s Record Shop,” which became one of her most successful albums. The song tells the story of a young boy from a small town who plays his guitar on the local stage, captivating audiences with his talent. As his fame grows, so does the mystery surrounding his identity. The narrative captures the timeless allure of musical talent and the journey from humble beginnings to stardom.
Upon its release, Rosanne Cash’s version of “Tennessee Flat Top Box” achieved significant success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This accomplishment marked one of the many highlights of her career, demonstrating her ability to honor her father’s legacy while making the song her own. Her rendition maintained the song’s original charm while adding a fresh, contemporary twist that appealed to a new generation of listeners.
“Tennessee Flat Top Box” was one of several hits from the “King’s Record Shop” album, which itself was a critical and commercial success. The album produced four number-one singles, further cementing Rosanne Cash’s place in country music history. Her success with this album showcased her versatility as an artist and her ability to navigate the evolving landscape of country music.
Rosanne’s rendition of “Tennessee Flat Top Box” is characterized by her clear, emotive vocals and a polished production that blends traditional country elements with a modern sensibility. The song’s infectious melody and compelling storyline make it a favorite among fans, old and new.
In essence, “Tennessee Flat Top Box” by Rosanne Cash is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in country music. It connects generations, paying homage to Johnny Cash’s original while standing strong as a distinctive work in Rosanne’s discography. For those who appreciate the rich history and evolving sound of country music, this song remains a delightful and meaningful piece of musical heritage.
Video
Lyrics
In a little cabaret in a South Texas border town
Sat a boy and his guitar and the people came from all around
And all the girls from there to Austin were slippin’ away from home
And puttin’ jewelry and hopped to take the trip to go and listen
To the little dark-haired boy who played the Tennessee flat top box
And he would play
Well, he couldn’t ride or wrangle and he never cared to make it down
But give him his guitar and he’d be happy all the time
And all the girls from nine to ninety
Were, snappin’ fingers, tappin’ toes and beggin’ him, “Don’t stop”
And hypnotized, and fascinated
By the little dark-haired boy who played the Tennessee flat top box
And he would play
Then one day he was gone and no one ever saw him ’round
He vanished like the breeze, they forgot him in the little town
But all the girls still dreamed about him and hung around
The cabaret until the doors were locked
And then one day on the hit parade
Was the little dark-haired boy who played the Tennessee flat top box
And he would play