Album: Johnny Cash Is Coming to Town

Introduction
"Johnny Cash is Coming to Town" is a studio album by American country singer and songwriter Johnny Cash. Launched in 1987, it marked a significant turning point in Cash's career, functioning as a resurgence album after numerous years of industrial decrease. The title track is a vibrant, tongue-in-cheek number about Cash's return to the hearts and minds of c and w fans. The album includes 10 tracks, a mix of Cash originals and covers of songs by other artists. Produced by Jack Clement, who was a veteran associate of Cash, the album represents a return to Cash's musical roots and is a celebration of the timeless nation sound.

Production and Recording
After nearly 3 years of exceptional success, Johnny Cash had actually found himself in a little a musical rut in the mid-1980s. His previous label, Columbia Records, dropped him in 1986, and his most current releases had stopped working to make a significant influence on the charts. With his profession at a crossroads, Cash signed with Mercury Records and partnered with producer Jack Clement for the first time since the early 1970s.

The album was recorded at the Cowboy Jack Clement Studio in Nashville, Tennessee. Known for his work with country legends like Charley Pride and Waylon Jennings, Clement was a perfect option to produce the album. Utilizing a traditional production style and going with stripped-down plans, Clement assisted Cash discover his roots and create an album reminiscent of his earlier work.

Noteworthy Tracks
"Johnny Cash is Coming to Town" consists of multiple standout tracks, showing off Cash's versatility as a songwriter and performer. Among the significant tunes are:

1. "The Big Light" - Written by Elvis Costello, this positive track explores the concept of redemption and dealing with the effects of one's actions. Cash's rugged voice instilled in this modern tune creates a remarkable experience for the listener.

2. "Ballad of Barbara" - This heartfelt ballad informs the story of a female called Barbara, her struggling relationship with her spouse, and the couple's ultimate reconciliation. Money wrote the tune based upon a fan letter he got, and the tender storytelling captures his signature design completely.

3. "Let Him Roll" - A cover of a Guy Clark tune, "Let Him Roll" is a mournful yet poetic ballad narrating the love affair in between a woman of the street and a downtrodden man. Cash's delivery is filled with feeling, further emphasizing the story.

4. "The Night Hank Williams Came to Town" - A sentimental track featuring a visitor appearance by Waylon Jennings, it recounts the experience of seeing the legendary Hank Williams perform live. The tune works as a homage to Williams and the extensive impact he had on c and w.

Reception and Legacy
"Johnny Cash is Coming to Town" was popular by critics and fans alike, applauded for its go back to the timeless country sound and genuine storytelling. The album peaked at number 36 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, signifying a resurgence in Cash's commercial success.

While not attaining the same level of sales as some of his earlier albums, "Johnny Cash is Coming to Town" remains a significant release in Cash's discography. It marked the beginning of a profession renewal that would continue into the 1990s, culminating in his deal with manufacturer Rick Rubin on the acclaimed "American Recordings" series. The album works as a pointer of Cash's long-lasting influence as a songwriter and entertainer, even as the tides of country music shifted around him.