Bonanza was one of the most popular shows on TV over the course of its 14-year run. Because of this, its theme song is also considered to be iconic.
The Bonanza theme was written by Jay Livingston and Raymond Evans. The most recognizable version of the theme does not include any lyrics.
While other artists went on to record the Bonanza theme with vocals, country singer Johnny Cash was the first to record a full-length vocal version. His version was released as a single in 1962. Cash later included his version of the theme song on his 16th album Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash.
Within recent times, a vintage video of Cash singing his rendition of the Bonanza theme has resurfaced on YouTube. According to the video’s description, the performance showcases Cash singing “on an old Opry show.”
The performance is over two minutes in length…far longer than the Bonanza theme was on the TV show.
People who stumbled across the video were amazed by it. Many had no idea that anyone ever performed the song with lyrics.
But Cash did! You can watch him sing his version of the Bonanza them in the video below. We’re so glad this video resurfaced, because it’s a true treasure.