J.R. Cash, aka Johnny Cash, was born on February 26, 1932. He grew up on a cotton farm in Arkansas and would go on to join the Air Force and then become a rising star on the rockabilly scene.
“The Man in Black’s” rise to fame was not an easy one but full of redemption-- like many of his songs.
He became one of country music’s biggest stars, one of the Outlaw Movement’s pillars, and one of the biggest power couples in the genre with his marriage to June Carter.
Sadly, on September 12, 2003, at the age of 71, Mr. Cash passed away due to complications from diabetes. His wife June passed away less than four months prior.
In honor of his legacy and in celebration of his birthday, here are six of our favorite Johnny Cash songs!
“Folsom Prison Blues”
Originally released in 1958, “Folsom Prison Blues” was a part of the iconic 1968 At Folsom Prison album. Besides the live version being recorded in a prison, this song had much controversy. Due to the line “shot a man in Reno,” it was pulled from radios following the assassination of Sen. Robert Kennedy.
“Hurt”
Originally written by the frontman for Nine Inch Nails, Cash covered this song in the latter part of his life. It was on his 2002 album American IV: The Man Comes Around. It received “Single of the Year” at the CMA awards. The music video also received a Grammy award.
“Sunday Morning Coming Down”
“Sunday Morning Coming Down” was written by the great Kris Kristofferson. Johnny Cash was able to turn it into a number 1 hit, his 11th. His cover was the kickstart Kristofferson needed to get his career started.
“I Walk The Line”
This 1956 hit would be Cash’s first number 1 song! It remained on the charts for over 40 weeks.
“Jackson”
Johnny and June began singing together in 1961. “Jackson” was released six years later when the couple became romantic.
“A Boy Named Sue”
This is arguably Cash’s “lightest” song in his discography. It would receive awards from both the Grammys and CMAs, winning “Song of the Year” and “Single of the Year” respectfully.
Related:
10 facts you might not know about Johnny Cash
Property where Johnny Cash, June Carter Cash once lived sold
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