About The Song
The song was released by The Outlaws as part of their album “Ghost Riders” in 1980. It’s notable for its popularity among rock enthusiasts, contributing to the band’s prominence. “Ghost Riders in the Sky” was written by Stan Jones in 1948. It became a cowboy standard with renditions by various artists like Burl Ives, Bing Crosby, Gene Autry, and Johnny Cash.
The Outlaws’ version emphasizes hard rock, departing from their previous country music influences. The Outlaws’ rendition features Hughie Thomasson on vocals and guitar, Billy Jones and Freddie Salem on guitars and vocals, and Rick Cua on bass. The song’s narrative is a cautionary tale for a cowboy, warning him of the consequences of his actions, with imagery of chasing the Devil’s herd across endless skies.