(Ghost) Riders In The Sky (Johnny Cash Cover)

Sp00ky season is probably my favorite season, so I'd be remiss to let it pass by without sharing an appropriately spooky song. Stan Jones wrote it, Burl Ives covered it, Bing Crosby, Vaughn Monroe...but Johnny's version is arguably the best-known today. Huge thanks to Josh for not only appearing in this video, but for suggesting the full-band approach, talking me down from my anxieties re: recording drums AFTER the guitar and vox take, and providing clutch mixing help when all the low-mid-frequency-heavy instruments started getting the best of me. This video truly wouldn't exist without him.
Special thanks as well to my Patreon patrons who allow me the opportunity to celebrate Halloween as part of my job, and to AVID for the sonic MVP of some of my latest recordings, the Carbon.
Support and follow!
Patreon: / carsonmckee
Instagram: / therealcarsonmckee
Josh's channel: / @joshturnerguitar
Josh's Patreon: / joshturnerguitar
Watch more videos!
Covers: • Don't Let Me Down (Bea...
Originals: • Colorado Soldier - Ori...
Acoustic guitar: 2013 Martin 000-17SM
Electric guitar: mid-2000s Fender MIM Telecaster with Fender Vintage Noiseless pickups
Baritone electric guitar: Gretsch G5260 Baritone
Bass: Squier Vintage Modified Jazz Bass 77
Snare: 14x8 Pearl Modern Utility
"Kick": 16" Pearl Export floor tom
Electric guitar amp: Fender Blues Junior
Whistling: The Mouth of Josh
Audio interface: Pro Tools Carbon (www.avid.com/products/pro-too...)
Vocal/drum overhead/bari guitar amp mic: Warm Audio WA-47
Acoustic guitar mic: Røde NT5
Electric guitar amp mic: Alder Audio H44
Kick drum mic: AKG D112
Camera: Canon SL2 w/ 24mm f/2.8 lens

[@JoshTurnerGuitar]

Yippie Kay-O, my man. Thanks for having me.

[@manfredhuschitt3469]

😂 😂 😂 😂 😂

[@BallofBase]

You guys should start a band or something!

[@reedmckenzie]

Seems like Carson’s voice and your Tele were made for this 🥰 fantastic harmonies too. Finally, super glad you’ve got Carson puttin “full band” stuff on his channel now 👍

[@gillygil8747]

Is this a Die Hard reference?

[@user-qp1ut5sr3s]

Josh your harmony here a amazing!!!!

[@DavidJones-vf3ff]

This song is 70+ years old and has been recorded by dozens of performers. Some made the charts. This recording has to rank near the top.

[@paulgittins6724]

This is one of the finest versions of Ghost Riders I have ever heard. I'm going to have to listen to a lot of Carson McKee's work.

[@Scottlp2]

Wonderful, and Carson’s voice is perfect. Thanks.

[@iTellaThePun]

My dad loves this song. As a kid, I didn't realize the lyrics were well crafted and spooky.

[@ganttedmiston4356]

The bolo is a nice touch for this one!

[@tanyaraven9492]

Even better is that it tops a flannel shirt.

[@TheAutoChannel]

A lot of wonderful performers have covered this song, and these young men are second to no one!

[@rebelmannetje]

Goosbumbs when the voices blend. You made that song into something new.

[@johnmcafee9741]

With all due respects to Those Who Came Before, this is, imho, the best version of this song I’ve ever heard. Thank you.

[@MrA1582000]

Totally agree.

[@johnmelvin975]

Really, better than the original , give it a rest

[@johnmcafee9741]

Charting versions were recorded by The Outlaws, Vaughn Monroe ("Riders in the Sky" with orchestra and vocal quartet), which topped the Billboard magazine charts, by Bing Crosby (with the Ken Darby Singers), Frankie Laine, Burl Ives (two different versions), Marty Robbins, The Ramrods and Johnny Cash. Your choice?

[@jamesbarros950]

I’ve not heard all the versions, but this is my favorite that I’ve heard. Sorry Johnny.

[@MrA1582000]

@@jamesbarros950 Same here, this is my favorite

[@supermankent1041]

Awesome, I prefer this to the original. Carson's voice is perfect for this. The slower tempo makes it easier to understand and more mysterious.

[@RVgeeks]

Besides your awesome musical talents, you two always have such great production values. But this really stands out, with Carson’s vocals sounding so incredible. Hard to believe you can get such fantastic sound without being in a dedicated recording space, like a studio. Also noteworthy in this one are Josh’s look of intensity… and his wicked hairstyle! 😁

[@ruthlesscutthroat4030]

pretty sure that is a warm audio 47 up there. consider it $1k between the eyes.

[@rimmersbryggeri]

@@ruthlesscutthroat4030 And it is a treated room even if it looks like a none dedicated space. Doesnt detract from anything though, these guys really are good.

[@tomekpozimski7295]

And there's also the Kelly Factor in play ;)

[@babayaga9677]

So CLEAR and CLEAN

[@flatroc1]

You guys are fantastic. Carson's voice is one of the smoothest, versatile and wonderful voice i've ever heard. Thanks

[@davidlacroix6769]

Love the sound of that electric guitar.

[@88vladi]

Carson, what a voice!! Josh, what a guitarist!!

[@billparrish4385]

I always thought what a perfect representation of hell this was. You're a cowboy, bringing in a herd to round-up can be a rough part of a rough job anyway, and you're given the devil's herd of demon cows to catch, and they will not be caught, and you can never ever stop trying until you do catch them, but you never can! 'Cowboy, change your ways today, or with us you will ride' indeed! And you guys really did justice to an old favorite, which I guess is why I talked here more about the story than the performance -- your excellent performance told the story, made it believable, celebrated it and not yourselves. Which is all anyone can hope for from a good performance. In short, nailed it!

[@williammartin2275]

One of my favorite songs expertly done by 2 of my favorite singer/ musician duos.

[@mokantransparency3948]

Great cover. This is a great tribute to the original.

[@Scottlp2]

I looked it up, original was in 1940s looks like.

[@mokantransparency3948]

Funny. I never said it was Johnny Cash. I said it wasa great tribute to the original. No mention of Johnny Cash.

[@jessicacosiguitar]

Your voices together are always wonderful! Beautiful cover :)

[@dollyproductions1]

OMG this so suits your voice Carson!

[@paulcaton7093]

Superb cover - I can't imagine it being done better.

[@kentrogers196]

As a life-long Man In Black fan, that was a Pure T JOY to listen to!!!

[@btpearce]

Amen

[@SebBrosig]

Reminds you just how great Johnny Cash really was though.. Carson sounds bland in comparison

[@45156]

Utterly brilliant cover there Carson (and Josh) - quite amazing, and every bit as good as any other version I've heard in the 69 years I've been on the planet - and for 54 of these, I've been a musician, but NOT anywhere near as good as you two

[@godfreydaniel6278]

Same here, youngster...

[@sngbrd]

Flipping heck, this is so awesome. Can’t get enough of your videos.

[@bruceringrose7539]

Wow! That was awesome, boys!!! There are covers...., and then there are COVERS! Everyone that has previously recorded this song in whatever version, starting with Burl and Stan, is now jealous. You have set the bar. Full Stop.

[@alantay9409]

Although I am not into country music….Wow. I do enjoy this cover. Pure silky voice and perfect harmony! Thank you for posting.

[@regunter6599]

When you two get with Toni Lindgren again do this but end up with Josh and her doing the Outlaws ending where they just start speeding it up faster and faster. You two did a wonderful job of it but the two of them ending it in a blistering fret burning guitar duel would be epic.

[@curtisgrindahl446]

Lovely to hear the full range of Carson's amazing voice. Great mix and wonderful performance. Thanks for leaving the outtakes in... always love those as part of these informal productions. You guys really are the best.

[@lonewolf_521]

Carson's pickin' and vocals are amazing, as usual. If it has strings Josh can play it to perfection. Thank you, gents! Glad to see that Josh's hair has yet to meet a comb. 😂

[@dylanfee1635]

You guys are so awesome and inspiring.yall make me want to break out my old martin and invite some freinds over for a jam. Thanks for doing all you do.

[@tomreingold4024]

Do it! Do it! There is nothing like a jam session.

[@silvergirl7810]

Almost didn’t push this because I didn’t want this grand ol’ song to get ruined (I love it so and it hold a special place in my heart with my dad and I) - so I thought- I’ll give it a second, and with my eyes closed I heard a surprise-a wonderful damn surprise- it wasn’t a ruin to this song - it was a tribute to this song! I took a deep breath- relaxed and listened to the rest in a relaxed and comfortable state- thank you making this song a wonderful cover- great voices- great instrumentals - wonderful all round! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@mathias5618]

Your singing really has progressed a ton, amazing performance by you guys

[@Evertb1]

Well, I was a bit worried because this is one of my all time favorites. I should have known this song would be in good hands by you guys. Great!

[@Chance-ry1hq]

Josh looks like he was drug out of bed to record this. “Get up Josh”! “I feel like recording Ghost Riders in the Sky”!!!

[@henrylee9896]

Carson’s singing is popping out! You guy’s folky style is really down to the earth while using all the simple contemporary equipments is great,

[@johnd9031]

Carson’s voice is perfect for this song. Josh is master of the guitar.

[@rondacolavito1735]

Carson, you’re voice is so great; the low end of it is captivating. Always look forward to see what you’ll do next.

[@patrickblaney]

Now I have this song stuck in my head. Thanks a lot, Carson. 🙄

[@jonkolstad2]

You brought back fond memories for me at 74 years old. My father loved this song and he'd be 105 now. My god I can only wonder what he would think. What a pair.

[@hoisin75]

Lovely moist reverb on Carson’s guitar, great harmonies as ever. Big fan

[@timcampbell921]

Mmmoist!?

[@jkxelor1295]

Love the spooky October tune! Thanks for posting as always you guys do the best covers.

[@ronhale2739]

I so enjoy it when you two sing these older tunes, you put your own spin on it and you own it. Thank you.

[@TheKathrynpowell]

YESSS some Johnny Cash!!!! Get it Carson!

[@patrickscully4786]

That was brilliant! You covered it all. The bass vocals, the storyline intensity, the waa waa strum..and the eerie whistle.. that was sooooo cool. It's all in the execution and you executed! Thanks for doing this song! Rock on! 🤟

[@myretiredhobbiesgainesvill8140]

Great job, you guys nailed that song perfectly. One of my favorite songs, never get tired of hearing this one when it's performed so well. Thanks for sharing, take care.

[@greybeardbass]

You always look like you are having SO much fun doing these songs. Always a pleasure to hear. Thanks.

[@eidurnavkijd]

This is pure joy. Wonderfull. Everything you two do with or without other members of the other favorites......just awsome. I wish you would come by once in the Netherlands. Keep up the good music.

[@MrAucklandguy]

You guys never cease to amaze and surprise even after all these years. We the fans live for these wonderful moments of the unexpected and how great they are. Love your work.

[@theonemacduff]

Well pards, that was a heck of a rendition. Honestly, haven't heard that one for years and years, had forgotten what a joy it is. Thanks for continually making everyone's day a little better.

[@RobertJones-hm4zt]

This gave me a joyous feeling as I was listening. The cares of the day just faded. Thank you both.

[@MauroBrisola]

You both are super. The richness of your music is magical. Thanks a lot.

[@dennisgriffin1874]

You nailed it!!!!!!!! You two are so damn amazing, truly amazing, thank you both for the beautifully well done rendition of Riders In The Sky, Johnny Cash would be Proud!!

[@er5406]

One my favorite songs to listen to. A very good arrangement. Thanks guys for placing another little bright spot in my life.

[@markknopflerisnot]

Visions of the "Blues Brothers" immediately come to mind on hearing this.....there seems to be no limits to the range, style, interpretation and choice of songs that you guys can perform so brilliantly.....kudos as always

[@MrStrocube]

Wow, simply amazing. You guys totally nailed this and then some. Gave me chills.

[@sunnysmilessunshine4060]

This put a big smile on my face~ FUN~ As Always, Absolutely Perfect! Thank you, I so enjoy both of you~

[@freejulianassange3143]

You guys rock! Loved this one. Musicianship and camaraderie of the most satisfying kind. Bravo!

[@jssp210]

Love you guys and can't wait to see you. I have watched this several times and just noticed Josh's hair...OUTSTANDING!!

[@audreyorissapaley-omelchuk6919]

Carson, your range continues to amaze me. Keep the country favourites coming! You guys are sooooooo talented!

[@len2193]

Great rendition, always been one of my favorites and you two do it justice.

[@edithdederichs8217]

Oh men! What a awesome cover. I love Johnny Cash and I love the way you perform it 👌!!

[@jemiluforreal]

Pure gold in every way. Such fun!

[@fritzschmollebeck]

Absolutely great cover, your music is touching as always! The fierce face of Josh at the beginning fits perfectly to the song, thanks!

[@RADThird1]

Well this is just awesome! This was one of my favorite songs on the radio as I was growing up in the mid 1950's. I think that the version I remember was by The Sons Of The Pioneers but that was a long time ago so I'm not sure. Thanks so much for this guys.

[@diunitedkingdom7302]

How have I missed this excellent version?! Congratulations; brilliant 👏👏

[@rileymartin3388]

I don’t know how you two manage to out do yourselves nearly every time. What a great arrangement. Beautifully done as always.

[@TheFreedison]

Wow! The voice is perfect and the arrangement so brilliant. I’m now a fan for life, looking forward to your next jewel.

[@annamariehewitt3173]

You did a beautiful job on this song......These great old songs must be passed down through the generations...Thank God for you guys.....

[@dandelionaries]

Absolutely great rendition. I am in awe.

[@debbiemcclelland2129]

It’s always amazing when you two get together, thank you xx

[@matthiasromer9173]

Awesome. When the "Full Band" kicked it i started smiling all over my face :D Thanks for this great piece !!!

[@MaryFeliceDrennen]

This is so awesome! I just love it, your voices blend so well together!

[@bonginkosisithole3567]

This was beautifully coordinated, and even more beautifully recoded! Wonderful work gentlemen!

[@brucen4719]

LOVE THIS!!! I also love Josh's "just rolled out of bed 3 min ago" vibe. Keep these great tunes coming!

[@markbates891]

I've been a fan for years. You guys never disappoint. This is phenomenal!

[@zathrasnotzathras655]

Beautiful. Nice Die Hard reference at the end too. I like to think Johnny would every happy with you both.

[@richardbrotzman3152]

You and Josh make such a great collaborative team, from musical book reports in high school (that was the video that first got me hooked on following Josh years ago), to Ghost Riders, and everything in between. Keep that great music coming!

[@tahoemike5828]

Outstanding as ever gents. Carson always sounds so good on Johnny Cash songs.

[@Youssef51]

Excellent cover. It's not an easy song to do and you guys did it brilliantly. Thanks!

[@t5o7m]

First heard the Vaughn Monroe version when I was a pup, -- and that's what Carson just brought me back to ... nicely done you two ... nicely done --Yippee-yi-o, yippee-yi-ay :)

[@deborahchapman222]

That was sheer perfection!! Love your country tunes. The new equipment makes Carson’s voice have so much more depth. Love it!! More More 😍😍

[@ruthannkizakavich3325]

Beautiful version! Gave me chills! ❤❤❤👍👍👍👏👏👏🎶🎵🎶🎵

[@guitaleleoeuvre]

This is one of them standards most all guitarist's try to learn and play when starting out! (At least, back in my day it was!) It's an "easy" song to play, but "hard" to play it well! (Of course, you guys knock it out of the park!)

[@josecarlosbolanossanabria4400]

Como siempre, Bravo. Gracias por vuestra música, chicos.

[@SpoonFeedThem]

Brilliant. As always!

[@GaryBoyd02]

Great job guys! Awesome! Enjoyed that you can never have enough plaid.

[@jonswartzguitar4563]

Now you've gone and done it, crossing genres like there's nothing to it. I have enjoyed this tune for...well a longer time than I care to admit. This is beyond special, I have looped this for over an hour; and I love playing with you. Thank you.

[@clivedredge]

This is probably the best cover I have ever heard... Well done done guys...

[@frankcoffey]

Fantastic. Played that song many times in a country band back in the early 80s. Your version is amazing.

[@dcwriter11769]

Josh's hair is a total vibe. LOVE it!!! Oh, and the song is amazing as well!!!

[@judycarlsen7707]

Wonderful rendition. The enunciation on this song has to be so clear to tell the story. This is some of the best that I have heard Carson do and in that deeper voice. Josh is his usual superb self on the guitar. A really fine work guys!

[@malcolmalexander2915]

Nicely done gentlemen. A pleasure to listen.

[@lefebvrem4182]

Great ! Perfect sound and voices as usual, with plain and full respect of the original mood of this monument, and without any self-serving or artificial effect. Despite your quiet attitude there must be a big deal of work behind this, in addition to your talents. Thank-you, guys.

[@MLFranklin]

The timbre of the vocal work absolutely nails it. Wow!

[@lydiaricher2732]

Beautiful voices, and a wonderful performance bravo gentlemen 👏

[@renees-music]

Sets the new standard. Carson's voice and faces and Joshes picking and harmonies made me hear this as a whole new song. Thank you guys! Cheers, Renee

[@beckywatts502]

GREAT JOB Guys. Carson your voice is just perfection.

[@Dally_Sparkles]

fantastic I could watch and listen to you guys make music for hours.

[@mwj5368]

Brings a real smile and tapping my foot, and great vocals and love the guitar leads. I remember this on the radio back in the Sixties I think when it first came out but could picture you guys performing it in Capitol Record Studios back then too! You're world class talent!!

[@laughingdog9614]

I sometimes think the cover band experience transcends the original as all are celebrating the achievements. This is the best one I've heard but you are standing on broad shoulders.