I Walk the Line; Learn Bass line, Lyrics and Chords in all 3 keys!

I did some hunting on the web so I could do this right when I play it in my "J Cash Lives" Tribute shows (it's just me and my guitar so I "play" both parts; Luther's and Johnny's). 

I've included 2 videos that helped me; Johnny Cash playing using a slip of paper for a snare drum effect (which you can do; and if playing both bass and chords, just place paper around/under 3 of the smallest strings: g, b, and e). The next is what I think is the best "how to" video I've found on the web to learn the bass line part, by Center Stage Guitar Academy.

Marty's great intro to Johnny and Johnny playing with paper in the strings: 

Here's the best instruction I've found to learn the bass line: 

My suggestion is to watch both videos and learn this bass line real well.

Next I went through the work to get the lyrics with the "right" chords for each verse; something I've not seen ANYWHERE on the web. My suggestion here is to copy and paste them from my page here and put into a word type document so you can play this in the right (modulating) keys! (You're welcome).

A final note: to play along with Johnny, he "fingers" everything as if playing in E but he capos the first fret so he sings in F.

Enjoy!

I Walk the Line
written and recorded by Johnny Cash

E (F with Capo on 1^st)

BASS INTRO

E        B7                           E

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine

          B7                     E

I keep my eyes wide open all the time

           A                         E

I keep the ends out for the tie that binds

               B7              E

Because you're mine I walk the line

RUN UP TO A

A          E7                   A

I find it very very easy to be true 

       E7                            A

I find myself alone when each day is through

         D                    A

Yes I'll admit I'm a fool for you

               E7              A

Because you're mine I walk the line

RUN UP TO D 

D           A7                       D

As sure as night is dark and day is light

           A7                      D

I keep you on my mind both day and night

         G                                D

And happiness I've known proves that it's right

               A7              D

Because you're mine I walk the line

RUN DOWN TO A

A             E7                     A

You've got a way to keep me on your side

            E7                          A

You give me cause for love that I can't hide

          D                             A

For you I know I'd even try to turn the tide

               E7              A

Because you're mine I walk the line

RUN DOWN TO E

E        B7                           E

I keep a close watch on this heart of mine

          B7                     E

I keep my eyes wide open all the time

           A                         E

I keep the ends out for the tie that binds

               B7              E

Because you're mine I walk the line

The Greatest: The Number Ones    Greatest Hits & Favorites    AT FOLSOM PRISON