On this day in 1968, Johnny Cash performed two shows at Folsom Prison for the recording of a live album

Following the success of his song “Folsom Prison Blues” in 1955, Cash had become popular amongst inmates and received numerous requests to perform at various prisons. In 1957 Cash performed his first prison show at Huntsville State Prison. Receiving a positive reception, Cash was inspired to continue with his prison performances, and came up with the idea of recording one of these shows for a live album.

The idea was shelved until 1967, when Columbia Records put Bob Johnston in charge of producing Cash’s material. The idea was pitched to Johnston who enthusiastically supported the concept, in stark contrast to the old personnel who had found the idea too risky.

On January 13th, a combination of musicians joined Cash in two performances at Folsom Prison, one at 9:40am and one at 12:40pm. The decision to hold two performances was made in case of the first show being unsatisfactory. However, the first show was much more successful in the end, with only two songs from the second performance making it to the LP.

Despite little support and investment by Columbia initially, Johnny Cash at Folsom Prison became a hit, reaching number one on the country charts and the top 15 of the national album chart. The idea was so successful that it became a series, with Cash going on to perform at prisons in San Quentin, Tennessee and even Österåker in Sweden.