Introduction
Big River” is a classic country song written and performed by Johnny Cash, released in 1958. The track narrates the journey of a man pursuing his lost love along the Mississippi River, traveling from Saint Paul, Minnesota, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Along the way, he visits various cities, including Davenport, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri; and Memphis, Tennessee, reflecting his deep yearning to win her back. Whiskey Riff+2Wikipédia, l’encyclopédie libre+2Grateful Dead+2Wikipedia+1Christian’s Music Musings+1
The inspiration for “Big River” came to Cash while reading an article about himself in TV Radio Mirror magazine in 1957. The article began with the phrase “Johnny Cash has the big river blues in his life,” which sparked Cash’s imagination. He penned the song’s lyrics on the backseat of a car en route to White Plains, New York, completing them before reaching his destination. Song Magnifier+3Wikipedia, l’enciclopedia libera+3Wikipedia – Die freie Enzyklopädie+3
In the studio, Cash initially envisioned recording “Big River” as a slow twelve-bar blues. However, producer Sam Phillips suggested a faster rockabilly arrangement, believing it would appeal more to younger audiences. This decision proved successful, as the song reached number four on Billboard’s Country & Western chart and number 14 on the Hot 100, remaining on the charts for several weeks. Wikipedia, l’enciclopedia libera+1Wikipedia+1
“Big River” has since become a staple in Cash’s repertoire, covered by numerous artists, including the Grateful Dead, Rosanne Cash, and the Highwaymen—a supergroup comprising Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its evocative storytelling and Cash’s distinctive delivery, cementing its status as a timeless piece in country music history. Wikipedia – Die freie Enzyklopädie+3Wikipedia+3Wikipédia, l’encyclopédie libre+3
For a deeper appreciation, you can listen to Johnny Cash’s original recording below:
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