About the song
“God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a timeless classic performed by the legendary Johnny Cash, a pioneer of country and gospel music. Released posthumously in 2006 on the album “American V: A Hundred Highways,” this song continues to captivate audiences with its haunting melody and profound lyrics.
Written by traditional folk singer Odetta, “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” was famously covered by Johnny Cash towards the end of his career. The song carries a solemn message rooted in biblical themes, warning about the inevitability of facing consequences for one’s actions. Its narrative draws from the traditional American folk genre, where themes of morality and redemption are central.
Johnny Cash’s rendition of this song resonates deeply, reflecting his distinctive baritone voice and stripped-down instrumentation that characterize much of his later work. The track received critical acclaim and achieved notable chart success, underscoring its enduring appeal across generations.
Throughout his career, Johnny Cash earned a reputation as a musical icon, blending elements of country, rockabilly, blues, and gospel into his unique sound. His influence extends far beyond music, encompassing his advocacy for social justice and his cultural impact on American society.
“God’s Gonna Cut You Down” stands as a testament to Johnny Cash’s ability to infuse traditional songs with his own heartfelt interpretations, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential artists in music history. As listeners engage with the song, they are reminded not only of Cash’s musical prowess but also of the timeless themes that continue to resonate in today’s world.
Video
Lyrics
… Oh my God
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
… Well my goodness gracious let me tell you the news
My head’s been wet with the midnight dew
I’ve been down on bended knee
Talkin’ to the man from Galilee
… He spoke to me in the voice so sweet
I thought I heard the shuffle of the angel’s feet
He called my name and my heart stood still
When he said, “John, go do my will!”
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut ’em down
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Well you may throw your rock and hide your hand
Workin’ in the dark against your fellow man
But as sure as God made black and white
What’s down in the dark will be brought to the light
… You can run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Run on for a long time
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
Sooner or later God’ll cut you down
… Go tell that long tongue liar
Go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
Tell ’em that God’s gonna cut you down
… Oh yeah
Cut him down
Cut him down
Cut him down
quantriweb2023