About the song
“Riders in the Sky” is a timeless classic performed by the legendary Johnny Cash, a song that resonates deeply with its haunting melody and evocative lyrics. Written by Stan Jones, this iconic track was originally recorded by Cash for his 1979 album titled “Silver.”
Stan Jones, a talented songwriter and actor known for his work in Western films, penned “Riders in the Sky” in 1948. The song’s narrative paints a vivid picture of cowboys on a supernatural cattle drive, facing their inevitable fate in the afterlife. Its atmospheric sound, complete with ghostly howls and galloping hoofbeats, captures the essence of the Old West folklore.
Johnny Cash’s rendition of “Riders in the Sky” was a significant success, reaching high positions on various music charts. The song earned Cash a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Male in 1980, showcasing his ability to blend storytelling with his distinctive baritone voice. Over the years, it has become a staple in his discography, beloved by fans worldwide for its poignant themes and memorable melody.
Beyond its musical accolades, “Riders in the Sky” has endured as a symbol of Johnny Cash’s enduring influence on country and western music. Its inclusion in the album “Silver” cemented its place in music history, alongside other hits that defined Cash’s illustrious career.
For those who appreciate storytelling through song and the rich tradition of American folk music, “Riders in the Sky” remains a testament to Johnny Cash’s mastery as an artist and his ability to breathe life into tales of the American frontier. It continues to captivate listeners, reminding us of the enduring power of music to transcend time and connect us to our cultural heritage.
Video
Lyrics
An old cowboy went riding out
One dark and windy day
Upon a ridge he rested
As he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd
Of red eyed cows he saw
Plowin’ through the ragged skies
And up the cloudy draw
Their brands were still on fire
And their hooves were made of steel
Their horns were black and shiny
And their hot breath he could feel
A bolt of fear went through him
As they thundered through the sky
For he saw the riders coming hard
And he heard their mournful cry
Yippie-yi-o
Yippie-yi-yay
Ghost riders in the sky
Their faces gaunt
Their eyes were blurred
Their shirts all soaked with sweat
He’s riding hard to catch that herd
But he ain’t caught ’em yet
‘Cause they’ve got to ride forever
On that range up in the sky
On horses snorting fire
As they ride on, hear their cry
As the riders loped on by him
He heard one call his name
‘If you wanna save your soul
From hell a-riding on our range
Then, cowboy, change your ways today
Or with us you will ride
Trying to catch the devil’s herd
Across these endless skies
Yippie-yi-o
Yippie-yi-yay
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky
Ghost riders in the sky