(Ghost) Riders In The Sky
Johnny Cash · The Greatest: The Number Ones [2012]
Upon a ridge he rested as he went along his way
When all at once a mighty herd of red eyed cows he saw
A-plowing through the ragged sky 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 Ohhhhh
Yippie yi yaaaaay
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 want to 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 Ohhhhh
Yippie yi Yaaaaay
Ghost Riders in the sky
Ghost Riders in the sky
Ghost Riders in the sky
(Ghost) Riders In The Sky
Johnny Cash's rendition of '(Ghost) Riders In The Sky' captures the haunting atmosphere of this classic Western ballad. Originally a staple of cowboy folklore, the song finds a new resonance through Cash's deep, resonant baritone, which emphasizes the supernatural chase depicted in the narrative. This recording appears on The Greatest: The Number Ones, a compilation celebrating the artist's most commercially successful singles. While Cash is often associated with somber themes of redemption and mortality, his interpretation of this ghostly tale highlights his versatility within the country and folk genres. The track stands as a testament to his ability to revitalize traditional material, bringing a sense of urgency and drama that defines much of his extensive discography. It remains a powerful example of how his voice could transform a familiar story into a compelling auditory experience.