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Various Artists

Anchored in Love: A Tribute to June Carter Cash

Dualtone | 2007 | Album

Biography

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Country singer/songwriter June Carter could have been a major star - if she had wanted to. Instead, she devoted herself to her husband Johnny Cash and the task of keeping his many demons at bay subsequently ensuring that the legacy and legend of the Man in Black would never be lost. She made this her mission until her death in May of 2003 from complications following heart surgery. A few short months later, Johnny Cash, himself would also pass on.

It may be long overdue but finally, June Carter Cash is getting a round of applause for her own accomplishments in the way of an A-list tribute album that celebrates not only June’s music but that of her pioneering musical family, The Carter Family. as well. Those on board to celebrate the spunky country singer represent the finest of pop and country, from Sheryl Crow to Loretta Lynn. The album also includes tracks from those with a more personal connection to the late singer, as well - Carter Cash’s sound-alike daughter Carlene Carter and step-daughter Rosanne Cash provide two of the disc’s strongest covers.

Taking on a classic like the June Carter Cash-penned tune “Ring of Fire” isn’t an easy task for anyone but Elvis Costello shows that he’s more than game. The trumpets are replaced but guitars but the yearning ache at the heart of the song still comes barreling through. Also spot on is Loretta Lynn’s take on The Carter Family tune “Wildwood Flower”. Her approach to the song is straightforward, but to fool around with this one would almost be a crime. Spirituality was always a defining force in June Carter Cash’s life and her driving faith is acknowledged her by Rosanne Cash’s stunning take on “Wings of an Angel”.

Keeping things spirited and channeling the more feisty side of June Carter are a pair of duets . “If I Were a Carpenter” finds Sheryl Crow and Willie Nelson taking over a song that June and Johnny covered. They may be a mismatched pair age-wise but you’d never know it to hear them sing. The task of tackling “Jackson” a Johnny and June signature duet is handed to Carlene Carter and Ronnie Dunn. Luckily, they’re more than up to the job as they romp through the rousing he said / she said song.

June Carter Cash may have had to wait too long to have her contributions to the music world acknowledged but this tribute album is a step in the right direction!

Amy Wagner