Released February 5, 2007 Recorded 2006–07 Length 3:11 | Format CD single Genre Country rock Label Broken Bow | |
"Johnny Cash" is a song co-written by John Rich, Vicky McGehee and Rodney Clawson. It was originally recorded by Tracy Byrd on his 2005 Greatest Hits album, but not released as a single.
Contents
In 2007, the song was covered by American country music artist Jason Aldean and released as the lead-off single to his 2007 album Relentless. Released in early 2007 as Aldean's fourth single, it also became his fourth consecutive top ten hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts, where it peaked at number 6. The song was also featured in the soundtrack to the video game NASCAR 08.
Content
"Johnny Cash" is an up-tempo song in which the narrator addresses his lover, inviting her to join him on a road trip to Las Vegas. The connection to singer Johnny Cash is made only in the chorus ("Blastin' out the Johnny Cash"), indicating that Cash's music will be played while the narrator and his lover are on their road trip.
Critical reception
Brody Vercher, reviewing the album for Engine 145, said that the song is "a good pick-me up song for those looking to get the blood flowing before a workout." Kevin John Coyne, reviewing the song for Country Universe, gave it a C- rating. He said that "the song doesn’t even have a melody, with Aldean yelling through most of the record as if he’s straining to be heard over the loud production."
Music video
The music video takes place in places around Las Vegas, and features Jason Aldean and his band playing. The video was directed by Wes Edwards.
Chart performance
"Johnny Cash" debuted at number 44 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs for the week of February 17, 2007.