The two most notable covers performed by Johnny Cash are certainly “Hurt” and “Don’t Think Twice It’s Alright.” Although, when it comes to Cash covers, that is merely the tip of the iceberg. As Johnny Cash has covered a plethora of artists across nearly every relevant genre in the music industry. And frankly, one could make the argument that some of Cash’s versions are better than the originals.
Videos by American Songwriter
Regardless of the differing qualities, Johnny Cash’s covers of some of the world’s most iconic tunes are a testament to his dedication to the craft. Not just in country music, but in all of music. That being so, here are three of Johnny Cash’s coolest and most genre bending covers.
“I’m on Fire” by Bruce Springsteen
Johnny Cash and Bruce Springsteen are both pillars of American music, consequently, they both had quite the affinity for each other. Hence, Cash recorded a cover of Springsteen’s 1984 hit song, “I’m on Fire.” Recorded and released for a 2000 Bruce Springsteen tribute, Cash’s cover of the song appeared on the album, Badlands: A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska.
Cash doesn’t alter the lyrics in the slightest, though, he does add his staple one-two rhythm ass the bass line of the song. And frankly, when Cash sings it, you think it belongs entirely to him, and in a sense, you forget that Bruce Springsteen even wrote the song.
“Redemption Song” by Bob Marley
Johnny Cash is in fact a renaissance man, and his cover of Bob Marley’s profoundly political anthem proves just that. Released by Marley in 1980, Cash covered this song alongside The Clash’s, Joe Strummer. However, the song was not released right after its recording. Rather, the deep-cut Cash cover finally graced the world in 2003 on Cash’s, Unearthed.
Marley’s song already holds enough conviction to make one’s heart and soul twist. Though, when the lyrics are paired with Cash’s voice, it seems the message is being spoken from above. No one could have ever seen this cover coming to light. Though, it did, and it’s a match made in heaven.
“One” by U2
U2 has always written lyrics worth a poetic certification. Though their epic music structures and sounds have often overshadowed them. However, that is not the case in Cash’s cover of “One,” as his baritone voice provides the song with a lyrical poignancy it never achieved in its original format.
Originally released by U2 in 1991 on their album, Achtung Baby, Cash recorded and released his cover of the song in 2000. Releasing it on American III: Solitary Man, Cash’s rendition of the song proves that with his voice, anything can sound like a bible verse.
Photo by CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.