VH1 Storytellers is a live album by J… Read Full Bio ↴Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson.
VH1 Storytellers is a live album by Johnny Cash and Willie Nelson, released in 1998 (see 1998 in music) on American Recordings. The album was produced by Rick Rubin and was the third record released as part of Cash's 9-year period of collaboration with Rubin.
The opening track is a duet with Cash and Nelson, followed by alternating solos by both artists. Cash and Nelson discuss the songs and their origins between tracks on the recording.
I Walk the Line
Johnny Cash & Willie Nelson Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
I find myself alone when each day's 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
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
Because you're mine, I walk the line
Because you're mine, I walk the line
In "I Walk the Line," Johnny Cash declares his fidelity to his wife, expressing that he will remain faithful no matter how challenging it is. From the opening lines, "I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. I keep my eyes wide open all the time," he is certainly conscious of the importance of maintaining his virtue, watching his thoughts and his actions closely. He recognizes that the bond between two people in love requires effort to keep it strong - "I keep the ends out for the tie that binds." The phrase "I walk the line" suggests the idea of staying on the straight and narrow path, without veering off to the left or right. Despite his struggles, he finds it easy to be true to his beloved. Throughout, he emphasizes the gravity of his attachment to her by asserting repeatedly, "Because you're mine," indicating that she is his anchor, and he will never stray from her.
Moreover, Cash figuratively illustrates the depth of his loyalty for his partner, saying he always keeps her on his mind, "both day and night." As he declares, "And happiness I've known proves that it's right." It is evident that he has found contentment in the relationship, and this only serves to reinforce his commitment, and he adds that he would "even try to turn the tide" for her - this implies that he would do everything in his power to make things right. "I Walk the Line" is a pledge of allegiance to a woman, a song full of passion and devotion that says as much about Cash's love for his wife, Vivian, as it does about his artistic brilliance.
Line by Line Meaning
I keep a close watch on this heart of mine
I am very cautious about protecting my heart from being hurt in a relationship.
I keep my eyes wide open all the time.
I am always aware and observant in a relationship to see if anything is amiss.
I keep the ends out for the tie that binds
I am always making sure that the relationship's bonds stay strong.
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I am willing to make sacrifices to keep our relationship going because I care about you deeply.
I find it very, very easy to be true
It's effortless for me to be faithful because I value our commitment to each other.
I find myself alone when each day is through
At the end of every day, I reflect on my thoughts and actions to make sure I always act with honesty and integrity towards you.
Yes, I'll admit I'm a fool for you
I am helplessly and completely in love with you.
As sure as night is dark and day is light
I am certain with and confident in our love.
I keep you on my mind both day and night
You're always on my mind, and I think about you constantly throughout the day.
And happiness I've known proves that it's right
Our love has brought me much joy, and it confirms that our relationship is meaningful and fulfilling.
You've got a way to keep me on your side
Your charming personality and loving demeanor keeps me motivated to stay together with you.
You give me cause for love that I can't hide
Your kindness and affection compel me to love you deeply, and I am proud to express my love for you.
For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide
If our relationship was put in a difficult situation, I would do everything I can to try to make things work because I am committed to you.
Because you're mine, I walk the line
I am willing to make sacrifices to keep our relationship going because I care about you deeply.
Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Songtrust Ave, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Johnny Cash
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
@jednatkin9959
"Because you're mine, I walk the line". Every man should sing this to his woman.
@SherrySpicer-oi1yl
Singing& doing are two different things.Lol✌🏻
@stolengeneration
I'm legit learning how to play this on guitar so I can play it to a girl someday
@waquasalam1450
And then go on to marry another woman
@afterburner2869
I’m a total hard rock heavy metal guy and in my opinion Johnny Cash is the coolest man to ever walk this planet. His attitude and persona are metal as well.
@Thur6663
I’m a metal guy as well and I totally agree with you man
@afterburner2869
@@Thur6663 🤘🏻
@elizabethmerriman531
Mmm, you are so right about Johnny. Cash. No matter your choice of music,.... Johnny Cash finds his his way into your soul
@afterburner2869
@@elizabethmerriman531 Very well said and are absolutely correct . He transcends all music and everyone respects him because he was the real deal. My parents got to see him in concert many years ago and I’m not sure if they realize how fortunate they were to have seen him live. I wish I had.
@elizabethmerriman531
@@afterburner2869 I was raised with music speakers in my bedroom. My father woke us up to all of the bygone music artists. When I heard Johnny Cash singing the Long Black Veil (original from the Orange blossom special) I stayed in bed until the song was finished. The women in the background, wailing, gave me chills. Listening to that song now still gives me chills.