About The Song
“Folsom Prison Blues” is a classic country song written and performed by Johnny Cash. It was first recorded in 1955 and later released as a single in 1956. The song is one of Cash’s signature tunes and has become one of the most famous songs in the country music genre. The lyrics of “Folsom Prison Blues” tell the story of a man who is imprisoned in Folsom Prison for various crimes, including shooting a man in Reno just to watch him die. The protagonist expresses his remorse for his actions and his longing to be free from the confines of prison. He dreams of riding on a train to freedom, away from the prison walls and the hardships of prison life. The song’s distinctive rhythm, catchy melody, and Cash’s deep, gravelly voice contribute to its enduring popularity. “Folsom Prison Blues” has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic in American music history.
Video
Lyrics
I hear the train a comin’
It’s rolling round the bend
And I ain’t seen the sunshine since I don’t know when
I’m stuck in Folsom prison, and time keeps draggin’ on
But that train keeps a rollin’ on down to San Antone
When I was just a baby my mama told me
“Son, always be a good boy, don’t ever play with guns”
But I shot a man in Reno just to watch him die
When I hear that whistle blowing, I hang my head and cry
I bet there’s rich folks eating in a fancy dining car
They’re probably drinkin’ coffee and smoking big cigars
Well I know I had it coming, I know I can’t be free
But those people keep a movin’
And that’s what tortures me
Well if they freed me from this prison
If that railroad train was mine
I bet I’d move it on a little farther down the line
Far from Folsom prison, that’s where I want to stay
And I’d let that lonesome whistle blow my blues away