Is Hymns by Johnny Cash a good place to start with Johnny Cash?

Yes, Hymns by Johnny Cash is recommended as a starting point for new Johnny Cash listeners. A solemn collection of gospel-infused tracks that blend heartfelt devotion with Cash's signature deep, resonant voice. Released in 1959, 'Hymns by Johnny Cash' was Cash's first full-length gospel album, following his rise to fame with hit records like 'I Walk the Line.' This album marked a significant moment in Cash's career as it showcased his spiritual side and solidified his connection to gospel music, appealing to both religious audiences and secular fans alike.

Who is Hymns by Johnny Cash for?

Hymns by Johnny Cash works well if you're into steady pacing for reflective moments, short tracks for focused listening and heartfelt devotion in every song.

How many songs are on Hymns by Johnny Cash?

Hymns by Johnny Cash has 13 tracks, running approximately 28 minutes.

Hymns by Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash · 1959

28 min · 13 tracks · blues · rock & roll · traditional folk music

A solemn collection of gospel-infused tracks that blend heartfelt devotion with Cash's signature deep, resonant voice.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for reflective moments
short tracks for focused listening
heartfelt devotion in every song
consistent lyrical journey throughout
soothing background for quiet evenings

Maybe skip if you want

seeking high-energy or upbeat
prefer long, sprawling albums

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — First full-length gospel album, solidifying Cash's versatility and expanding his audience.
Themes: spiritual redemption· traditional hymns· faithful devotion
Career context: Released in 1959, 'Hymns by Johnny Cash' was Cash's first full-length gospel album, following his rise to fame with hit records like 'I Walk the Line.' This album marked a significant moment in Cash's career as it showcased his spiritual side and solidified his connection to gospel music, appealing to both religious audiences and secular fans alike.
Stylistic neighbors: Willie Nelson· Merle Haggard· Waylon Jennings
If this clicks, go next to: Songs of our Soil — Continues the spiritual themes with a blend of country and folk elements.
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Songs of Leonard Cohen by Leonard Cohen — Explores spiritual redemption with poetic lyrics and a somber vocal delivery, akin to Cash's introspective style.

New to Johnny Cash? Find your way in →

Tracklist

New here? Start with "It Was Jesus".

1 It Was Jesus Start here 2:08
2 I Saw a Man 2:36
3 Are All the Children In 1:58
4 The Old Account 2:29
5 Lead Me Gently Home 2:04
6 Swing Low, Sweet Chariot 1:56
7 Snow in His Hair 2:24
8 Lead Me Father 2:31
9 I Call Him 1:50
10 These Things Shall Pass 2:20
11 He’ll Be a Friend 2:00
12 God Will 2:24
13 It Was Jesus (mono EP version) 2:03

What to play next

This album is considered a Breakthrough in Johnny Cash's catalog. First full-length gospel album, solidifying Cash's versatility and expanding his audience.

Listen next

Songs of our Soil

1959

Continues the spiritual themes with a blend of country and folk elements.

Go back to

The Fabulous Johnny Cash

1958

Full Johnny Cash discography Where to start with Johnny Cash Artists like Johnny Cash

blues traditional folk music

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