Tracklist
From the liner notes:
Fabulous is pretty fair description of Johnny Cash. One of the most popular and talented artists in his field, he makes his Columbia debut on this record with a collection of songs that spotlight his manifold talents in no uncertain fashion. Johnny is a singer, and a fine one, a songwriter whose first four songs were tremendous hits, and a radio and television personality of wide popularity. In addition, he is on the threshold of a major acting career in Hollywood. But Johnny and his singing are the business of this collection, and throughout the dozen number he has chosen he displays his fine, deep voice, his ability to color a song with either humor or sentiment, and his appealing and convincing way with country as well.
Born in Dyess, Arkansas, Johnny grew up in a cheerful small-town atmosphere, and developed an early fondness for country music, without ever dreaming that he would become a leading singing star. He simply liked to sing, as a soloist and along with his friends. When he had completed his stint in the service, he went to radio school, and while there found himself becoming more and more interested in music, and particularly in writing songs. He began to jot down ideas, rhyme schemes and tunes, becoming more and more serious about his pastime until one day he gathered together a few completed songs and started making the rounds of record companies. An astute executive recognized in Johnny and his songs the distinctive touch that has made him so popular, and gave him a chance.
Within a very short time Johnny and his compositions were being heard all over the country. Becoming part of the cast of that great showcase, the Grand Ole Opry. Johnny has since worked with other important stars such as Marty Robbins, Carl Perkins and Ray Price. When he is not traveling, Johnny lives in Hollywood with his charming wife and three little daughters, and continues to write his wonderful songs. This collection contains a number of them: Run Softly, Blue River, which is a charming ballad and Johnny’s delightful new version of Frankie and Johnny are only two of them. In addition, he renders a memorable performance of the famous Supper-Time and a whole new program of fine singing of fine songs. Here, then, is Johnny Cash, offering some of his very best performances for your continuing listening pleasure.