Dylan Cover #404 Johnny Cash "Mama, You've Been On My Mind"

In this ongoing Monday Series we will be exploring various artists versions of Bob Dylan song's. Today's tune is a cover by Johnny Cash of "Mama, You Been On My Mind"

Thoughts on Original:
From the first time we tackled a cover of this tune:
An early hidden gem of Bob's writing "Mama, You Been On My Mind" finds him getting poetic, melodic and rhythmic with his words. From the opening 'Sun Cut Flat' phrase Dylan is in top gear, talking to the woman he is thinking about with clarity, fleeting desire and a smirk. Often performing the tune with Joan Baez in those early days the tune took on an add dimension as a duet. A great song that should get even more love then it does.

Cover:


Thoughts on Cover Artist:
RtBE debated adding Johnny Cash into our take on early rock and roll studio albums but voted against it last minute as he was always more country. However, we did put him in our live albums list because we wanted to include him in our look back at the originators of rock and roll. He is part of the million dollar quartet and should at least get some love. He is one of the true voices of America so consider this an extension of last months Masters series.

Thoughts on Cover:
A great light cover of the tune as Johnny duets with June during the chorus. Great harmonica, a surprising saxophone easy bass and rolling drums, an excellent version.