45 years ago today, Johnny Cash, June Carter and the Statler Brothers did something nobody had done before. They entered Folsom Prison in Folsom, California to record an album. Many thought it was career suicide. But, the album was a huge hit, reaching number one on the country charts in 1968. Cash was defiant, funny & charming during the legendary concert. By the sound of it, the prisoners appeared to have a good time, too! I played several tracks from this legendary recording. I also dug up a handful of songs inspired by prisons.

I also featured a couple of tunes from local sisters, the Ericksons, who are holding their CD release show this Thursday at The Cedar, and the usual array of new Americana!

Segments

I Still Miss Someone
Johnny Cash

Where do You Dwell
The Ericksons

Convict Pool
Calexico

In the Jailhouse Now
Webb Pierce

Border Radio
Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison

I'm Shakin'
The Blasters

Silver Bullet
Ol' Yeller

Backseat
Chicago Farmer

All the Best
John Prine

Wingless Angels
Bow Thayer

Queen of the City
Joshua James

You Can't Buy My Love
Robert Plant

Jackson
Johnny Cash & June Carter

Run From You
Max Gomez

Street People
Bobby Charles

Dungeon of Irons
Wooden Wand

The Good Life (is Wasted)
Lambchop

Mama Tried
Merle Haggard

Gone Blind
The Ericksons

25 Minutes to Go
Johnny Cash

Green, Green Grass of Home
Porter Wagoner

I Cry for Love
Carrie Rodriguez

Wild One
Those Darlins

Mexico
The Staves

Rice and Beans (But No Beans)
Welcome Wagon

Life in Prison
The Byrds

Appalachian Girl
Pert Near Sandstone

When a Woman Loves a Man
Paul Kelly

Ten Little Kids
The Jayhawks

Pretty Little Lie
Blackberry Smoke

Folsom Prison Blues
Johnny Cash