About the song
Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag” is a deeply patriotic and reflective song that captures the spirit of American resilience and pride. Released in 1974, this song is a testament to Cash’s ability to convey profound emotions through his music and lyrics. Written by Cash himself, “Ragged Old Flag” serves as both a tribute to the American flag and a commentary on the turbulent times the nation was experiencing.
The song is the title track of the album “Ragged Old Flag,” which showcases Cash’s dedication to themes of patriotism and social consciousness. The album was released during a period of significant political and social upheaval in the United States, including the aftermath of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal. In this context, Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag” offered a poignant reminder of the country’s enduring strength and unity.
“Ragged Old Flag” is unique in Cash’s discography for its spoken-word delivery, a style he occasionally employed to powerful effect. The song tells the story of an old man recounting the history of a weathered American flag to a younger listener. Through this narrative, Cash highlights the trials and tribulations the flag has witnessed, from battles and wars to moments of national strife and triumph. The flag, though tattered and worn, symbolizes the resilience and steadfast spirit of the American people.
Upon its release, “Ragged Old Flag” resonated deeply with audiences, especially those who shared Cash’s sense of patriotism and reverence for American history. The song, while not charting as high as some of his other hits, received widespread acclaim for its heartfelt message and evocative storytelling.
The album “Ragged Old Flag” reached No. 16 on the Billboard Country Albums chart, reflecting Cash’s continued popularity and relevance in the country music scene. The title track, in particular, has endured as a favorite among fans, especially during times of national reflection and remembrance.
Johnny Cash’s “Ragged Old Flag” stands as a powerful tribute to the American spirit. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to evoke a deep sense of pride and respect for the values and history that the flag represents. Through his distinctive voice and narrative style, Cash delivered a message of unity and resilience that continues to resonate with listeners today.
As we listen to “Ragged Old Flag,” we are reminded of Johnny Cash’s profound impact on American music and culture. His ability to capture the essence of the American experience in his songs ensures that his legacy remains strong, and “Ragged Old Flag” remains a stirring anthem of patriotism and pride.
Video
Lyrics
I walked through a county courthouse square
on a park bench, an old man was sittin’ there.
i said, “your old court house is kinda run down, ”
he said, “naw, it’ll do for our little town.”
i said, “your old flag pole is leaned a bit,
and that’s a ragged old flag you got hangin’ on it.”
he said, “have a seat, “and i sat down,
“is this the first time you’ve been to our little town.” i said, “i think it is”
he said, “i don’t like to brag, but we’re kinda proud of that ragged old flag
“you see, we got a little hole in that flag there,
when washington took it across the delaware;
and it got powder burned the night francis scott key sat watching it, writing “say can you see”
it got a rip in new orleans, with packingham and jackson tugging at it’s seams.
and it almost fell at the alamo
beside the texas flag,
but she waved on through.
she got cut with a sword at chancellorille,
and she got cut again at shiloh hill.
there was robert e. lee and beauregard and bragg,
and the south wind was blowing hard on that ragged old flag
“on flanders field in world war i,
she got a big hole frm a bertha gun,
she turned blood red in world war ii
she hung limp, and low, a time or two,
she was in korea, vietnam
she went where she was sent by her uncle sam.
she waved from our ships upon the briny foam and now they’ve about quit wavin’ back here at home in her own good land here she’s been abused,
she’s been burned, dishonored, denied an’ refused,
and the government for which she stands
has been scandalized throughout the land.
and she’s getting threadbare, and she’s wearin’ thin.
but she’s in good shape, for the shape she’s in.
cause she’s been through the fire before
and i believe she can take a whole lot more.
So we raise her up every morning
and we bring her down slowly every night,
we don’t let her touch the ground,
on second thought
i “do” like to brag
cause i’m mighty proud of
tht ragged old flag