The Louvin Brothers—Charlie and Ira Louvin—were a famous country and gospel duo known for their rich harmonies and honest songwriting. Active mainly in the 1940s to 1960s, they brought emotional depth to country and bluegrass through both secular and religious songs.
Their essence runs deep in country music history, inspiring artists like Emmylou Harris and Gram Parsons. With themes ranging from heartbreak to faith, their songs were full of raw feeling and traditional roots. Despite personal struggles and a relatively short partnership, their legacy remains strong, thanks in part to iconic tracks like “Cash on the Barrelhead.”
About the Song
Cash on the Barrelhead is a lively and clever classic by The Louvin Brothers that mixes humor, hardship, and catchy country sounds.
The lyrics reflect themes of justice, money, and self-inflicted consequences in a playful yet pointed tone.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | August 1956 |
| Album | Encore |
| Writer | Ira Louvin, Charlie Louvin |
| Producer | Ken Nelson |
Lyrics of Cash on the Barrelhead
Verse 1
Got in a little trouble at the county seat
Lord, they put me in the jailhouse for loafing on the street
When the judge heard the verdict, I was a guilty man
He said, “Forty-five dollars or thirty days in the can”
Chorus 1
“That’ll be cash on the barrel head, son
You can make your choice, you’re twenty one
No money down, no credit plan
No time to chase you ’cause I’m a busy man”
Verse 2
Found a telephone number on a laundry slip
I had a good-hearted jailer with a six-gun hip
He let me call long distance, she said, “Number, please”
And no sooner than I told her, she shouted out at me
Chorus 2
“That’ll be cash on the barrel head, son
Not part, not half, but the entire sum
No money down, no credit plan
‘Cause a little bird tells me you’re a traveling man”
Verse 3
Thirty days in the jailhouse, four days on the road
I was feeling mighty hungry, my feet a heavy load
Saw a greyhound coming, stuck up my thumb
Just as I was being seated, the driver caught my arm
Chorus 3
Said, “That’ll be cash on the barrel head, son
This old gray dog gets paid to run
When the engine stops, Lord, the wheels won’t roll
Give me cash on the barrel head, I’ll take you down the road”
Similar Songs Like Cash on the Barrelhead
Each of the songs below brings its own flavour—some lighthearted, others deeply emotional—but all showcase their timeless storytelling style.
- When I Stop Dreaming: This ballad is packed with sorrowful harmony and aching vocals. It tells the story of love lost with real emotional depth.
- The Family Who Prays: This song carries strong gospel roots, focusing on faith and unity. Its gentle melody and heartfelt message make it unforgettable.
- You’re Running Wild: With a faster tempo and sharp lyrics, this track confronts betrayal in love. It’s upbeat but still delivers a powerful message.
Similar Artists Like The Louvin Brothers
Fans of The Louvin Brothers often seek out artists who share their deep roots in traditional country, gospel, and bluegrass music. Each artist below has made a lasting mark on American roots music, offering albums filled with heartfelt songs.
- The Stanley Brothers
Genre: Bluegrass / Country Gospel
Top albums: The Stanley Brothers and the Clinch Mountain Boys (1959), Hymns and Sacred Songs (1960), For the Good People (1963) - The Everly Brothers
Genre: Rock and Roll / Country
Top albums: Songs Our Daddy Taught Us (1958), It’s Everly Time (1960), A Date with the Everly Brothers (1960) - Flatt & Scruggs
Genre: Bluegrass / Country
Top albums: Foggy Mountain Jamboree (1957), Songs of Glory (1960), The Versatile Flatt & Scruggs (1967) - Jim & Jesse
Genre: Bluegrass / Gospel
Top albums: The Old Country Church (1957), Saluting the Louvin Brothers (1962), The Jim & Jesse Show (1969) - Charlie Louvin
Genre: Country / Gospel
Top albums: Less and Less and I Don’t Love You Anymore (1966), Charlie Louvin Sings Murder Ballads and Disaster Songs (2008), The Battle Rages On (2010)
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Other Artists Covered Cash on the Barrelhead?
Yes, the song has been frequently covered by other artists, including Gram Parsons (on his album Grievous Angel), and has been performed live by many others due to its popularity and energetic style.
What is The Significance of The Phrase “Cash on the Barrelhead”?
The phrase refers to a custom where customers had to pay cash immediately, placing their money on the top (head) of a barrel, which was used as a makeshift table in bars.
What Makes Cash on the Barrelhead Notable in The Louvin Brothers’ Career?
The song was released during a high point in their career and is one of their best-known tracks, showcasing their storytelling and tuning skills. It remains a staple of their legacy and is often highlighted as a key example of their impact on country music.
