Waylon Jennings

Lore & Background

In 1986, the partnership between Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash resulted in their only collaborative studio album, Heroes. The recording featured a specific lineup of musicians that defined its sound. Wayne Jackson, Ace Cannon, and Dennis Good contributed horns, while Ralph Mooney played steel guitar. Guitar duties were shared among Al Casey, James B. Cobb Jr., Jerry Shook, Reggie Young, and Marty Stuart, who also added mandolin. The rhythm section included Gene Chrisman on drums, Jimmy Tittle and Mike Leech on bass, with Leech also serving as an arranger. Keyboards were handled by Larry Butler, Bobby Emmons, and Bobby Wood. Backing vocals were provided by Rick Yancey and Danny Hogan. This collective effort produced a singular document of their collaboration under the Columbia Records label.

In Their Own Story

The production of Heroes was overseen by Chips Moman, who served as both producer and engineer, with David Cherry assisting on engineering duties. The technical completion involved Steve Hoffman for mastering and Kevin Gray for CD preparation. Visually, Bill Johnson directed the art while Murray Brenman handled reissue design and Kal Roberts provided photography. Mike Ragogna is noted as the reissue director for later releases. The album stands as a recorded moment where Waylon Jennings and Johnny Cash joined forces, utilizing the talents of the A-Strings and a dedicated group of session musicians to create their sole joint studio effort.

Reader's Guide

The album features backing vocals by Rick Yancey and Danny Hogan, distinct from the lead performances by Cash and Jennings. Instrumental highlights include Marty Stuart's work on guitar and mandolin, Ralph Mooney's steel guitar, and horn arrangements by Ace Cannon, Dennis Good, and Wayne Jackson. Mike Leech contributed significantly as both a bassist and an arranger. The project was released in 1986 on Columbia Records. For those seeking further information, Luma Electronic maintains a Johnny Cash discography listing that includes this release. The credits also list Chips Moman and David Cherry for their engineering roles, ensuring the sound captured the collaboration accurately.

Did You Know?

• Heroes is the only collaborative studio album released by Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings.
• The album was released in 1986 on Columbia Records.
• This release was Johnny Cash's 72nd overall album.
• Mike Leech served as both a bassist and an arranger for the album.
• Chips Moman acted as both producer and engineer for the project.