I Walk the Line

Song Meaning of I Walk The Line by Johnny Cash, and what it is about

Years before he would ever step foot inside a recording studio, Cash started working on this song while serving with the Air Force in Germany.

After scoring with "Folsom Prison Blues," he went back to it, only to discover that the original cassette had become damaged. Cash, though, like the unusual sound and added a beat by rolling a piece of wax paper around the guitar strings.

The song, which was initially a ballad, was subsequently sped up by Sam Phillips to a furious rumble.

While performing "I Walk the Line" on his TV show, Cash explained to the audience the reason for his humming during the song: "People ask me why I always hum whenever I sing this song. It's to get my pitch." The humming was necessary since the song required Cash to change keys several times while singing it.

The words of the song speak on putting up with temptation, taking responsibility, and keeping faithful to Vivian Liberto in his first marriage. However, Johnny Cash later got married to June Carter after divorcing Vivian Liberto. I Walked the Line is the title of a book about Liberto's relationship with Cash.

Lyrics of I Walk The Line by Johnny Cash

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

I find it very, very easy to be true

I find myself alone when each day is 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

Because you're mine, I walk the line

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