
About The Song
Johnny Cash is a name that needs no introduction in the world of country music. His distinctive baritone voice and heartfelt lyrics have captivated audiences for generations. Among his vast catalog, “Pickin’ Time” stands as a testament to Cash’s ability to paint vivid pictures of rural life and the struggles of the working class. Released in 1958, this song offers a glimpse into the world of a cotton farmer, toiling through the long, hot days of summer in anticipation of the bountiful harvest.
“Pickin’ Time” is more than just a song about farming; it’s a celebration of the human spirit and the resilience of those who work the land. The picking referred to in the title is the act of harvesting cotton, a labor-intensive task that required immense physical exertion. Cash’s lyrics capture the grueling nature of this work, painting vivid images of the sun-baked fields and the aching backs of the farmers.
However, despite the hardships, there is an underlying sense of hope and optimism in the song. The picking time is not merely a period of toil; it is also a time of celebration and reward. The farmers work tirelessly throughout the year, knowing that their efforts will eventually pay off. The corn is yellow and the beans are high, promising a plentiful harvest and financial security.
Musically, “Pickin’ Time” is a classic example of early country music. The simple, repetitive melody is both catchy and memorable, and the instrumentation is sparse, allowing Cash’s vocals to take center stage. The song’s arrangement is reminiscent of traditional folk music, with a strong emphasis on rhythm and storytelling.
It’s worth noting that “Pickin’ Time” is more than just a snapshot of rural life in the 1950s. The themes of hard work, perseverance, and the cycle of life are universal and resonate with people from all walks of life. Even today, the song serves as a reminder of the importance of appreciating the fruits of our labor and the value of community.
“Pickin’ Time” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Johnny Cash or new to his music, this song is a must-listen.
Video
Lyric
I got cotton in the bottom landIt’s up and growin’ and I got a good standMy good wife and them kids of mineGonna get new shoes, come pickin’ timeGet new shoes come pickin’ timeEv’ry night when I go to bedI thank the Lord that my kids are fedThey live on beans eight days and nineBut I get ’em fat come pickin’ timeGet ’em fat come come pickin’ timeThe corn is yellow and the beans are highThe sun is hot in the summer skyThe work is hard til layin’ byLayin’ by til pickin’ timeLayin’ by til pickin’ timeIt’s hard to see by the coal-oil lightAnd I turn it off purty early at night‘Cause a jug of coal-oil costs a dimeBut I stay up late come pickin’ timeStay up late come pickin’ timeMy old wagon barely gets me to townI patched the wheels and I watered ’em downKeep her in shape so she’ll be fineTo haul my cotton come pickin’ timeHaul my cotton come pickin’ timeLast Sunday mornin’ when they passed the hatIt was still nearly empty back where I satBut the preacher smiled and said that’s fineThe Lord’ll wait til pickin’ timeThe Lord’ll wait til pickin’ time