Johnny Cash recorded 'Hymns from the Heart' at Columbia Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, in April 1962. The album was produced by Frank Jones and Don Law, who worked closely with Cash to create a record of traditional gospel hymns. The sessions included vocal arrangements with The Carter Family and pianist Floyd Cramer.
The album was released in 1962 by Columbia Records, reaching number 10 on the Billboard country albums chart. Unlike other gospel works by Cash, this album focused exclusively on classic hymns such as 'Just As I Am' and 'I'll Fly Away', without including original compositions. The cover shows Cash with an open Bible, reflecting his Christian faith.
Although not one of Cash's best-selling albums, 'Hymns from the Heart' is considered by critics to be one of his most sincere gospel recordings. Cash had previously released 'Hymns by Johnny Cash' in 1959, and this album continued his tradition of religious music, which he maintained throughout his career. The original recordings were remastered and reissued on CD in 2002 by Columbia/Legacy.