Johnny Cash (February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003) was an American singer-songwriter known for his deep baritone voice and distinctive "train-like" guitar rhythms. His music blended country, rock, blues, folk, and gospel, earning him inductions into the Country Music, Rock and Roll, and Gospel Music Halls of Fame. His themes of sorrow, redemption, and rebellion made him an enduring cultural figure.
Born in Kingsland, Arkansas, Cash grew up in a poor farming family, exposed to gospel music. After serving in the Air Force, he rose to fame in the 1950s, signing with Sun Records and releasing hits like Folsom Prison Blues and I Walk the Line. His signature "Man in Black" image and free prison concerts further cemented his rebellious persona.
Cash’s career spanned decades, from outlaw country to introspective covers, including Hurt by Nine Inch Nails. Despite struggles with addiction, he found stability with his second wife, June Carter. His late career resurgence, particularly with the American Recordings series, showcased his raw, emotional storytelling. Cash passed away in 2003, but his legacy remains timeless.