Johnny Cash – Now Here’s Johnny Cash (1961)
Released in 1961, Now Here’s Johnny Cash is one of the most energetic and emotionally rich studio albums of Cash’s early 1960s period. Coming at a time when Cash was firmly established as a major Columbia Records artist, the album balances upbeat country rhythms with introspective ballads, showcasing both his musical range and his growing confidence as a performer.
While not a concept album, Now Here’s Johnny Cash feels cohesive in tone and pacing, blending humor, heartbreak, storytelling, and rhythmic drive into a polished yet still authentic Cash experience.
Album Overview
This album reflects Cash at a creative crossroads—still rooted in his rockabilly and country foundations, yet increasingly interested in deeper emotional storytelling. The production is cleaner and fuller than his Sun Records work, but it never overwhelms the power of his voice.
The record moves comfortably between lighthearted songs and more serious reflections, offering listeners a dynamic and engaging listening experience. It stands as a strong example of Cash’s ability to thrive in the album format while still delivering memorable individual tracks.
Album Credits
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Artist: Johnny Cash
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Album Title: Now Here’s Johnny Cash
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Release Year: 1961
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Label: Columbia Records
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Producer: Don Law
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Genre: Country, Rockabilly, Americana
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Format: Originally released on vinyl (LP), later reissued on CD and digital formats
Produced by Don Law, the album benefits from Columbia’s refined studio sound while retaining Cash’s signature directness.
Tracklist
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Sugartime
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Goodbye Little Darlin’
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I’m Movin’ On
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It’s Just About Time
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Five Feet High and Rising
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I Just Thought You’d Like to Know
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The Man on the Hill
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I Forgot More Than You’ll Ever Know
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Let’s Think About Livin’
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You Win Again
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Hey, Porter
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Get Rhythm
Note: Track listings may vary slightly between original pressings and later reissues.
Key Songs and Highlights
“Sugartime” opens the album with a playful, upbeat tone, reflecting Cash’s ability to bring charm and rhythm to lighter material.
“Five Feet High and Rising,” one of Cash’s most autobiographical songs, recounts a childhood flood in Arkansas and remains one of his most vivid narrative performances.
“Hey, Porter” and “Get Rhythm” harken back to Cash’s Sun Records era, bringing a raw, driving energy to the album.
“You Win Again,” originally by Hank Williams, showcases Cash’s emotional restraint and deep connection to classic country songwriting.
Fun Facts and Trivia
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Blend of Old and New: The album includes both earlier hits and newer recordings, bridging Cash’s Sun Records past with his Columbia Records present.
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Autobiographical Song: “Five Feet High and Rising” is based on a real flood that affected Cash’s family during his childhood.
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Traditional Influence: The album features several classic country covers, reinforcing Cash’s respect for the genre’s foundations.
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Energetic Balance: The record mixes upbeat, rhythmic tracks with slower, reflective songs, creating a dynamic listening experience.
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Growing Popularity: By 1961, Cash was becoming a major national star, and this album reflects his broadening audience and musical reach.
Download Johnny Cash Albums from Amazon
More Albums:
Johnny Cash - Johnny Cash With His Hot And Blue Guitar! (1957)
Johnny Cash - Johnny Cash Sings The Songs That Made Him Famous (1958)
Johnny Cash - The Fabulous Johnny Cash (1958)
Johnny Cash - Songs of Our Soil (1959)
Johnny Cash - Ride This Train (1960)
Johnny Cash - Blood, Sweat and Tears (1963)
Johnny Cash - Bitter Tears: Ballads of the American Indian (1964)
Johnny Cash - The Holy Land (1969)
Johnny Cash - The Johnny Cash Children's Album (1975)
