Everyone has their own version of the perfect singer. That one singer that can make you want to dance even when all has gone wrong, or tug at your heart strings on even the happiest of days. For some it's Rihanna, Drake, or even bands like Twenty-One Pilots. For me, it's a little old man named Johnny Cash. Although he's no longer alive and with us, I still must say I truly do love his music -- even now, years after his last song came out.
One of the most influential singers of his time, Cash was mainly known for his country music, but he also sang in a variety of other genres. These ranged from gospel to blues, and even included rock and roll. What interested me most about him, though, wasn't his deep, baritone-bass voice, or even the fact that some of his songs were mainly just him speaking over background music, but what really got me was how much passion he would put into anything he sang. From his silly and humorous pieces like "A Boy Named Sue" and "Drove Her Out of My Mind," to his deep, mournful songs like "I See a Darkness" and "For the Good Times," I've never listened to a dull Johnny Cash song.
One of my personal favorite songs of his, and one of his most popular, is "Man in Black." It was that song that really defined him as an artist when he first performed it in 1971. The song mainly goes over why he himself isn't usually one to wear bright and cheery clothes. He continues to talk about the hardships many people are faced with in this world, and that although now everyone seems to be doing fine in this world, there should be someone who stands up front in remembrance of everyone that's gone before. Later Cash explained that this song was a statement in protest against racism, condemnation of drug users and prisoners, and the Vietnam War. This song was so inspiring to others that he was eventually called the "Man in Black" himself, and would usually preform with a long, heavy dark coat to match the nickname.
Another of my favorites is his cover of "Hurt." Originally sung by Nine Inch Nails, the already popular song transformed under is entirely different approach. The music video for the song is especially tear-jerking, as throughout it you're shown different video clips pertaining to his life. It starts with images of his museum and house, then shows videos taken with his wife (who had just passed away after the video was finished), and finally, cuts to Johnny Cash, as he emotionally sings out that even with all his wealth and the life he's lived as some big star, he is still struggling, both with a drug abuse problem he's had since early in his career, and with the fact that as he's gotten older, he's slowly found himself more and more alone as the years passed.
The Man in Black has sung a number of songs, and many were covers of others, but I've always found it interesting to hear his takes on them, especially when he himself had gone through so much in life. From his cheery tunes to sorrowful songs, he's always added in a bit of who he was to each song, and that myself is why I really enjoy his music. Again, although he may not be the "perfect singer" for a lot of other people, I can easily say he's mine, so if you ever want some songs for any occasion be sure to check Johnny Cash out, and you may someday find yourself as in love with his music as I am.
