Wrong Song
Johnny Cash · Other Songs - Johnny Cash
Four slugs from a forty-four
No Les, no more
Out in Arizona just south of Tucson
Where tumbleweeds tumble in search of a home
There's a town they call Tombstone where the brave never cry
They lived by a sixgun by a sixgun they died
It's been a long time now since the town was a boom
The jailhouse is empty so's the Palace Saloon
Just one look will tell you that this town was real
A secluded old dirt road leads up to Boot Hill
Walk up to the fence there and look at the view
That's where they were hanging, eighteen eighty two
It's easy to see where the brave men have died
Rope marks on the oak tree are now petrified
At night when the moon shines so far away
It gets mighty lonesome looking down on their graves
There lies Billy Clanton, never wanted to kill
But he's there with the guilty
Way up on Boot Hill (Boot Hill)
Wrong Song
Johnny Cash's "Wrong Song" stands as a poignant example of his signature storytelling within the country and gospel traditions. Recorded during a period where Cash frequently explored themes of regret and the passage of time, the track reflects his ability to blend acoustic instrumentation with deep emotional resonance. While specific album placement varies in historical records, the song aligns with his broader discography that often featured collaborations with gospel artists and focused on personal introspection. The recording captures Cash's distinctive vocal style, characterized by a gravelly tone and a narrative approach that invites listeners into his world of moral dilemmas and human frailty. It serves as a testament to his enduring influence on the genre, showcasing how he could transform simple melodies into profound statements on life's complexities.