Cash: Ultimate Gospel

I am thrilled that recordings of some of Johnny's favorite Gospel songs have been put together in a new CD. Johnny and June both loved to sing those old songs, which expressed so well the deep personal faith which was very important in their lives, and which has been so often overlooked in stories about them. -Billy Graham, October 20, 2006 Although Johnny Cash is known the world over as one of the most recognizable and successful country musicians of all time, the music that was truly closest to his heart was gospel. In fact, Cash left his original record label when his producer wouldn't allow him to record the gospel material that was so important to him. Ultimate Gospel is the most in-depth collection of Cash's gospel recordings ever assembled all beautifully remastered from the original source tapes for dazzling sound quality. This 2 CD set of 24 songs is a must-have for any Cash or gospel music fan.

Gospel was what Johnny Cash, Luther Perkins, and Marshall Grant originally wanted to record when they auditioned for Sam Phillips in 1954. In 1958, Sun Records' refusal to let Cash record a gospel album--despite his track record of hits--led him to leave for Columbia. This well-chosen package delineates sacred music's ongoing role in Cash's career, beginning with two 1970 performances from his ABC variety show, one featuring longtime Cash friend Rev. Billy Graham. The 1957 Sun tunes include the searing "I Was There When It Happened" and Cash's original "Belshazzar." "He Turned the Water into Wine," "In the Sweet Bye and Bye," "That's Enough," and his 1969 gospel hit "Daddy Sang Bass," all from Columbia, are particularly passionate, as is "Far Side Banks of Jordan" (a duet with June Carter Cash) and three never-before-issued performances, 1974's "My Ship Will Sail" and "How Great Thou Art and "It Is No Secret" from 1981. Given that one can't truly understand Cash without knowing his gospel side, this is a fine introduction. --Rich Kienzle