Since watching the movie “Walk the Line” which focuses on the life and time of the legendary musician Johnny Cash, I have started to gain an appreciation for his music. ‘The Man in Black’ as he is known was the antithesis to Elvis – black, brooding and ultimately true to his roots and life challenges.
5. It Ain’t Me Babe
This duet with June Carter, who Cash was romantically involved with, was a big hit in the 1960’s and shows how two voices can bounce off each other to great effect. This is a fantastic song and a classic to this day with its playful lyrics about love and the complications around it.

4. Hurt
This is one of the best songs that Johnny Cash ever performed, especially as he recorded it in 2002, just before his death. Hurt is a cover song originally performed by Nine Inch Nails, but Cash performs it so brilliantly that you would think he wrote and composed it on his own. The words and the iconic music video is a throwback to Cash’s life – his own struggles, his happiness and his accomplishments in this world.

3. Get Rhythm
“Get rhythm when you get the blues.” This iconic opening line of this jumping tune gets the listener to dance to the beat and the accompanying subtle guitar pattern and solo makes this a classic singalong song. Cash shows his versatility with this popular hit.

2. I Walk The Line
The signature guitar riff combined with Cash’s sultry opening lyrics makes this an instant classic.
“I keep a close watch on this heart of mine. I keep my eyes open all the time. Because you are mine, I walk the line.”
This love song is a great example of a how a simple melody and lyrics can become an instant hit.

1. Man in Black
This song represents Johnny Cash in the latter part of his career when he transitioned to his well-known persona of only wearing black when performing. This song is a lament for all the people in the world who are struggling and are held back. Cash sings about the futility of the world and the darkness that exists and that he will continue to wear black until things are a bit brighter in this world. A great song that keeps you occupied and interested from start to finish.