Newly Discovered Johnny Cash Album 'Songwriter' Set for Release in June

A previously unreleased Johnny Cash album, titled 'Songwriter,' has been discovered and is set for release on June 28, 2023. The album features 11 original songs written solely by Cash, recorded as demos in early 1993 while he was between record deals. "The goal is to put the spotlight back on Johnny Cash, the songwriter, and cement his legacy as one of the greatest American songwriters and storytellers," said Cash's son, John Carter Cash, who co-produced the finished version of the album.

The recordings were shelved after Cash signed with Rick Rubin and began his acclaimed 'American Recordings' series later in 1993. John Carter Cash recently rediscovered the tapes and worked with co-producer David 'Fergie' Ferguson, Cash's longtime engineer, to bring the songs to life. They assembled a band of musicians who had played with Cash, including guitarist Marty Stuart, bassist Dave Roe, and drummer Pete Abbott, to breathe new life into the stripped-back recordings.

The 11-track album showcases the breadth of Cash's songwriting, covering themes of love, family, sorrow, beauty, spiritual salvation, and more, all sung in his distinctive voice. "My father was a very prolific writer. He had a very unique ability to say a lot with very few words," John Carter Cash said. The first single, 'Well Alright,' is an upbeat, humorous tune reminiscent of Cash's 1950s hits, telling the story of finding love in a laundromat.

The album also features contributions from other notable musicians. The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach plays guitar on the track 'Spotlight,' while country legend Waylon Jennings sings on a couple of the original 1993 recordings. Vince Gill and Marty Stuart also lend their talents to the project. The sessions were likely one of the last for the late bassist Dave Roe, who had played on Cash's original demos.

Why this matters: The release of 'Songwriter' sheds new light on Johnny Cash's enduring legacy as a masterful storyteller and prolific songwriter. The album offers a rare glimpse into Cash's creative process and the depth of his unreleased material, solidifying his place among the greatest American musicians of all time.

In a statement, John Carter Cash expressed his hope that the album will "pique the interest of not only longtime fans, but of the folks who are just now discovering my father's music." 'Songwriter' serves as a testament to Cash's timeless voice and the power of his songwriting, even in the years before his celebrated comeback with the 'American Recordings' series. The album is a must-listen for Cash fans and music lovers alike, offering a fresh perspective on one of the most iconic figures in American music history.

Key Takeaways

• Previously unreleased Johnny Cash album 'Songwriter' discovered, set for June 2023 release.
• Album features 11 original songs written and recorded by Cash as demos in 1993.
• Produced by Cash's son John Carter Cash and longtime engineer David Ferguson.
• Album showcases Cash's songwriting prowess, with guest appearances by Dan Auerbach, Waylon Jennings, and more.
• Release aims to spotlight Cash's legacy as a masterful American songwriter and storyteller.