The Johnny Cash Christmas Special 1977

Johnny Cash's second Christmas special includes an all-star tribute to Elvis Presley, who died in August 1977, two months before this program was taped for CBS television. Fellow rockabilly pioneers Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Roy Orbison join Cash on "This Train is Bound For Glory" in memory of Presley, whose affinity for such sacred music was well-known. The 1977 special also includes holiday guest performances as Johnny takes the stage with Roy Clark for a spirited rendition of "Frosty The Snow Man" as well as the Statler Brothers with the yuletide classic "Blue Christmas."

Directed by Walter C. Miller, The Johnny Cash Christmas Special 1977 leans on a strong ensemble — Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash, Roy Clark — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about music titles of 1977.