single · December 1, 1958

Don't Take Your Guns to Town

Johnny Cash

Play 30s preview

Country RoadsSee this day

singer-songwritercountry

The cautionary tale in 'Don't Take Your Guns to Town' became one of Cash's signature songs, a stark narrative delivered with his inimitable gravity. It showcased his skill for blending the sacred and the secular, a hallmark of his artistry.

• The single was released in December 1958.
• It was released on the Country Roads label.
• The song was a significant hit for Cash, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Country charts.

Johnny Cash is a towering figure in American music, known for his deep, resonant voice and his distinctive blend of country, folk, and rockabilly. In late 1958, Cash was establishing himself as a major force in country music, following the success of Sun Records hits and his recent move to Columbia Records.