We Walk the Line: A Celebration of the Music of Johnny Cash

(Legacy)

For Johnny Cash’s 80th birthday bash in April at Austin’s Moody Theater, producer, bandleader, and bassist Don Was wrangled two dozen of the late country music icon’s admirers and acolytes for a 2-hour hootenanny. Actor Matthew McConaughey hosts with heavy Southwest charm, while Brandi Carlile’s rendition of “Folsom Prison Blues” kick-starts the night ahead of Buddy Miller, Rhett Miller, and more. Notable hot spots include Shelby Lynne’s contralto lament “Why Me Lord” and country stud Ronnie Dunn’s “Ring of Fire.” Cash’s close friend Kris Kristofferson makes several appearances, duetting with Jamey Johnson on “Sunday Morning Coming Down,” and then regrouping with him, Willie Nelson, and Shooter Jennings on “Highwaymen.” Bonus features include rehearsals by Nelson and McConaughey, artist interviews, and an audio disc of the night.

This article appears in August 31 • 2012.

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