Johnny Cash – I Walk the Line

About the Song

In 1956, Johnny Cash’s “I Walk The Line” became his breakthrough, reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart after two earlier singles had only modest success. The track stayed on the charts for over 43 weeks and went on to sell more than two million copies.

Cash wrote the song himself as a heartfelt promise to remain faithful to his first wife, Vivian Liberto, while he was frequently away touring. The couple married in 1954, but the pressures of fame soon tested their relationship. In 1955, Cash landed a deal with Sun Records and found himself touring alongside Elvis Presley—whose magnetic appeal drew crowds of devoted female fans.

One night backstage in Gladewater, Texas, Cash penned “I Walk The Line” as a vow of loyalty amid the temptations of life on the road. The song’s commitment proved difficult to uphold as Cash’s star rose and distractions multiplied.

Vivian Liberto worked to hold their family together, but after twelve years of marriage, she filed for divorce in 1966.

An interesting feature of the song is the distinctive humming at the start of each verse. Cash explained that this was his way of finding the right pitch as the song changes keys multiple times throughout, helping him stay on tone.

Over the years, Cash revisited “I Walk The Line” by re-recording it four times, underscoring its lasting significance in his career. You can find the classic track in the video below.

Lyric

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you’re mine, I walk the line

I find it very, very easy to be true
I find myself alone when each day is through
Yes, I’ll admit that I’m a fool for you
Because you’re mine, I walk the line

As sure as night is dark and day is light
I keep you on my mind both day and night
And happiness I’ve known proves that it’s right
Because you’re mine, I walk the line

You’ve got a way to keep me on your side
You give me cause for love that I can’t hide
For you I know I’d even try to turn the tide
Because you’re mine, I walk the line

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I keep my eyes wide open all the time
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
Because you’re mine, I walk the line