Walk the (Time) Line with Johnny and June

By Lane Vaughn

It was a love story for the ages—one immortalized in more country songs than you can count. The bond between Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash sparked an iconic collaboration, unforgettable duets, and a storytelling tradition that continues to shape country music.

On June 18, the Grand Ole Opry honors this legendary couple as part of our Opry 100 Honors series. Taking the stage in tribute are family members John Carter Cash and Ana Cristina Cash, Carlene Carter, and Johnny’s grandson Thomas Gabriel, frontman of The Tennessee Four. They’ll be joined by superstar Lainey Wilson, plus The Gatlin Brothers, Charlie McCoy, and The War and Treaty.

Before the show, take a journey through the lives and legacies of Johnny and June. Walk the (time) line with us—and get your tickets to Opry 100 Honors on June 18.

 

 

1943–1950: Sisters in Harmony

In 1943, the original Carter Family trio disbands. Mother Maybelle Carter forms a new act with her daughters June, Helen, and Anita—just teenagers at the time. Blending gospel, country, and vaudeville comedy, The Carter Sisters and Mother Maybelle quickly take over the airwaves. In 1950, they join the Grand Ole Opry cast.

1956: Enter Johnny Cash

By 1956, 24-year-old Johnny Cash has two hits on the charts: “Folsom Prison Blues” and “I Walk the Line.” That year, he makes his Opry debut and bumps into June Carter backstage at the Ryman—a moment that would change both their lives. Johnny would appear regularly on the Opry for the next several years.

1960s: Duets and Detours

As the '60s unfold, Johnny and June begin touring together. Their chemistry produces some of their most iconic work, including “Ring of Fire” (1963), which June co-wrote, “It Ain’t Me Babe” (1964), and “Jackson” (1967). Amid their success, personal struggles mount—failing marriages and Johnny’s substance use. In 1965, Johnny is briefly banned from the Opry after an infamous outburst where he smashed the Ryman’s footlights.

1968–1971: A Love Story on Prime Time

In 1968, Johnny and June marry in Franklin, Tennessee. A year later, they begin filming The Johnny Cash Show at the Ryman Auditorium. Johnny opens each episode with his iconic “Hello, I’m Johnny Cash” greeting, joined frequently by June, The Carter Family, Carl Perkins, The Tennessee Three, as well as guests ranging from Joni Mitchell to Bob Dylan to Louis Armstrong.

 1974: A Final Bow at the Ryman

Needing a larger space with newer amenities, the Opry moves out of the Ryman. On March 15, 1974, the Ryman holds its final show, Reverend Jimmie Rodgers Snow’s Grand Ole Gospel Show. Johnny and June close the night with the Carter Family classic, “Will the Circle Be Unbroken”—a fitting farewell to a legendary stage.

1980s–2003: Love That Lasts

Through the decades, Johnny and June remain partners in music and life. In the '80s and ’90s, Johnny performs with outlaw supergroup The Highwaymen. They cheer on the rising careers of their children, including Rosanne Cash and Carlene Carter. In 2003, they pass away just months apart—leaving behind a legacy as enduring as their love. 

Join us as we honor a love story that changed country music forever. Opry 100 Honors is more than a tribute—it’s a celebration of storytelling, strength, and the music that continues to inspire generations. Be there for this unforgettable night on June 18^th.