
About The Song
“Cool Water” is a classic country folk song, given a haunting and evocative rendition by the legendary Johnny Cash. Featured on his album “American VI: Ain’t No Grave”, this track transports listeners to the dusty trails and parched landscapes of the American West. Cash’s deep, resonant voice and the song’s evocative melody paint a vivid picture of a weary traveler’s longing for refreshment.
The song’s title, “Cool Water”, is a simple yet potent symbol of life-giving sustenance. It represents not just physical thirst but also a yearning for something more profound—a sense of peace, renewal, and hope. Cash’s lyrics, filled with imagery of parched landscapes and weary travelers, create a sense of longing and anticipation.
Musically, “Cool Water” is characterized by a sparse and haunting arrangement. The instrumentation is minimal, allowing Cash’s vocals to take center stage. His voice, filled with a sense of both weariness and longing, conveys the weight of the song’s themes. The melody is both simple and memorable, creating a lullaby-like quality that invites contemplation.
The lyrics of “Cool Water” are filled with imagery of the natural world and the human condition. Cash’s words evoke a sense of isolation and resilience, as the narrator endures the harsh realities of life in the wilderness. The song’s themes of perseverance and the search for meaning are universal, resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
One of the most striking aspects of “Cool Water” is its sense of timelessness. While the song was originally written in the early 20th century, Cash’s rendition gives it a new and contemporary feel. His interpretation of the song brings a sense of authenticity and depth, making it a timeless classic.
Johnny Cash was a master storyteller, and “Cool Water” is a testament to his ability to connect with audiences on a deep and personal level. The song has become a beloved part of Cash’s legacy, resonating with fans of both country and folk music.
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Lyric
All day I’ve faced the barren wasteWithout the taste of water, cool waterOld Dan and I with throats burned dryAnd souls that cry for water, cool, clear waterKeep a-movin’,Dan, don’t you listen to him,Dan He’s a devil not a manAnd he spreads the burning sand with waterDan can you see that big green treeWhere the water’s runnin’ freeAnd it’s waiting there for you and meThe nights are cool and I’m a foolEach star’s a pool of water, cool waterBut with the dawn I’ll wake and yawnAnd carry on to water, cool, clear, waterThe shadows sway and seem to sayTonight we pray for water, cool, waterAnd way up there He’ll hear our prayerAnd show us where there’s water, cool, clear, waterDan’s feet are sore he’s yearning forJust one thing more than water, cool, waterLike me I guess he’d like to restWhere there’s no quest for water, cool, clear, water