The man in black is a legend
His story is widely known
He's been told about for years
But the story never grows old
He started living life young
An independent man
He got into some trouble
That's when his life really began

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, he walked the line

He was put in jail
For only a day or two
But it taught him a lesson
He tried to share with you
The man found religion
And a true loving wife
They taught him many things
He'd never known about life

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, he walked the line

His vision had changed
He was born again
He sang to spread his message
To every troubled man
He took upon himself
To sing the word to all
He taught many a man
To stand and not to fall

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, he walked the line

He sang for many years
His message filled our hearts
We follwed his words
Of our lives, he was a part
He grew older and sicker
And he lost his loving wife
Soon after she was gone
He lost his own life

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, He walked the line

He left a congregation
Of loyal loving fans
We hope ours tears of sorrow
Help to cleanse the soul of man

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, He walked the line

He kept a close watch on that heart of his
He kept his eyes wide open all the time
He kept the ends out for the tie that binds
Because we find, He walked the line