
About The Song
Johnny Cash, the man in black, has always had a knack for delivering songs that resonate deep within the soul. His iconic baritone voice, coupled with his ability to convey raw emotion, has made him a legendary figure in country music. One such song that showcases his talent is “25 Minutes to Go”.
Released in 1965, “25 Minutes to Go” is a haunting ballad that delves into themes of mortality, reflection, and the fleeting nature of time. The song’s title itself is a stark reminder of the limited time we have on this earth, and it sets a somber tone for what is to follow.
The lyrics of “25 Minutes to Go” paint a vivid picture of a man contemplating his life as he faces his impending death. Cash’s gravelly voice is filled with both resignation and a sense of peace as he reflects on his past and the choices he has made. The song’s imagery is simple yet powerful, evoking a feeling of isolation and introspection.
Musically, “25 Minutes to Go” is a stripped-down affair that allows Cash’s voice to take center stage. The sparse instrumentation, consisting primarily of acoustic guitar and subtle percussion, creates a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s somber lyrics. The melody is both memorable and melancholy, and it lingers in the listener’s mind long after the final note has faded.
One of the most striking aspects of “25 Minutes to Go” is its universality. While the song is clearly about death and dying, its themes resonate with anyone who has ever pondered their own mortality. The song’s message is timeless, and it continues to connect with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
“25 Minutes to Go” is a masterpiece of country music that showcases Johnny Cash’s unique ability to convey complex emotions with simplicity and grace. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with its poignant lyrics, make it a must-listen for fans of country music and anyone who appreciates great songwriting.
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Lyric
Well they’re building a gallows outside my cell I’ve got 25 minutes to goAnd the whole town’s waitin’ just to hear me yell I’ve got 24 minutes to goWell they gave me some beans for my last meal I’ve got 23 minutes to goBut nobody asked me how I feel I’ve got 22 minutes to goWell I sent for the governor and the whole dern bunch with 21 minutes to goAnd I sent for the mayor but he’s out to lunch I’ve got 20 more minutes to goThen the sheriff said boy I gonna watch you die got 19 minutes to goSo I laughed in his face and I spit in his eye got 18 minutes to goNow hear comes the preacher for to save my soul with 13 minutes to goAnd he’s talking bout’ burnin’ but I’m so cold I’ve 12 more minutes to goNow they’re testin’ the trap and it chills my spine 11 more minutes to goAnd the trap and the rope aw they work just fine got 10 more minutes to goWell I’m waitin’ on the pardon that’ll set me free with 9 more minutes to goBut this is for real so forget about me got 8 more minutes to goWith my feet on the trap and my head on the noose got 5 more minutes to goWon’t somebody come and cut me loose with 4 more minutes to goI can see the mountains I can see the skies with 3 more minutes to goAnd it’s to dern pretty for a man that don’t want to die 2 more minutes to goI can see the buzzards I can hear the crows 1 more minute to goAnd now I’m swingin’ and here I go-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o-o!