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Introduction

When you listen to “We Got Paid by Cash” by The Statler Brothers, it’s like stepping into a time machine and taking a journey back to the golden days of country music. This song is more than just a melody and lyrics; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Johnny Cash and the profound influence he had on the Statler Brothers’ careers. Imagine sitting around a cozy campfire, sharing stories with close friends—this song feels just like that.

The Statler Brothers, known for their rich harmonies and timeless storytelling, pour genuine emotion into every note of this track. “We Got Paid by Cash” isn’t just a clever play on words; it’s a reflection of the deep gratitude and respect they had for Johnny Cash. The song beautifully captures the essence of their early days on the road, opening for the Man in Black and learning the ropes of showbiz under his mentorship.

One of the most compelling aspects of this song is how it encapsulates the camaraderie and humble beginnings of these country legends. You can almost feel the excitement and nervous energy of young musicians just starting out, coupled with the warmth of having a guiding hand like Cash’s. The Statler Brothers’ harmonies, as always, are impeccable, weaving a tapestry of nostalgia and heartfelt homage that pulls at your heartstrings.

Listening to “We Got Paid by Cash” is like flipping through a cherished photo album, each verse painting a vivid picture of their journey. It’s a reminder of the power of mentorship, the importance of staying true to one’s roots, and the joy of making music with friends who feel like family. This song resonates deeply, especially for those who appreciate the history and legacy of country music.

So, if you’re looking for a song that’s not just enjoyable but also rich in history and emotion, “We Got Paid by Cash” is a perfect pick. It’s a warm, engaging tribute from the Statler Brothers to a man who helped shape their musical path, and it’s bound to leave you with a smile and perhaps a tear of nostalgia.

Video

Lyrics

It started March of sixty-four
Many years ago
We were hired by Johnny Cash
To open up his show
Four boys, a worn out Cadillac
With a road map on the dash
For the next eight and one half years
We got paid by Cash
He took us down to Nashville
To Columbia studio
Not knowing where we came from
They told us where to go
But Johnny said, “I like ’em
Don’t you give them no trash”
You see, we were Johnny’s little boys
And we got paid by Cash
We were there when June became
Johnny’s lovin’ bride
And we sang to him that mornin’
Our buddy Luther died
And we were there when the son was born
That filled them both with pride
And we were there when John remembered
God was on his side
We watched him on the concert stage
We watched him write his songs
And saw the things we had to do
And the things that could go wrong
And if we had to start again
We’d do it in a flash
‘Cause we learned more than we earned
When we got paid by Cash
Then came the time when our career
Demanded that we go
And through some tears we all shook hands
That last and final show
All those years we never had
A contract or a clash
Whatever we may be today
We owe it all to Cash
We were there when June became
Johnny’s lovin’ bride,
And we sang to him that mornin’
Our buddy Luther died
And we were there when the son was born
That filled them both with pride
And we were there when John remembered
God was on his side
Now John will tell you there were years
When times were good and bad
But we can tell you they were some
Of the best we ever had
Carl Perkins and the Carters
And the Tennessee Three
We were one big happy family
And would have done it all for free
Don don, don don
Don don, don don