The original version is by Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails. The story goes that when Trent heard Johnny Cash cover the song he said " This is no longer my song, it belongs to Johnny Cash." R.I.P. Johnny Cash.
@@thedrunkbard4772 I've been listening to this song since he, meaning Johnny Cash released it and I'm never ready for the emotional punch I receive every single time I listen to it, making me weep. I've been listening to Johnny Cash's music my entire life, seems to me. I was born in 1975.
He showed the video to his daughter, and she said "Dad, it's like you're saying 'Goodbye'." To which he replied that he was. June Carter Cash passed away a couple of months after this video was released, and Johnny followed a few months later. RIP to the Legendary Man in Black.
Trent said he wrote the original song from the perspective of a young person looking at the future and feeling hopeless, and Johnny took the song from the perspective of an old man looking back. It was so powerful coming from Johnny due to his story and the raw authenticity he sings it from cause he lived it. Trent said it was so good he considers this the original song now. RIP Johnny Cash
Yep, Trent said that he felt like he was born to write the song, but it was really Johnny who was meant to play/record it. And after he heard this version of it, Trent said the song didn't belong to him or nine inch nails anymore. It belonged to Johnny.
@@danielgerald4551 no lol that’s not true at all what are you saying? There are even interviews with Trent about this and Johnny cash. This song was 100% written by Trent and 9 inch nails and covered in his later years by Cash. Don’t know where you got that from but it’s false
The Lady in the picture was his Mother. The Lady that was actually in the video was his wife June... She died three months after the video was released and he died 6 months later after her. In essence this was his goodbye and apology to his family and his God all in the same video for letting them both down in the long run. This song, though not his own, has been ranked as the #3 most beloved and moving Johnny Cash song of all time.
@@petergriffinson1907 When you reach the end of your life, will you have no regrets? Real or imagined, we all have moments in our lives where we wished we had been better. Everyone makes mistakes, but true acceptance is admitting your mistakes and knowing that nothing you can do can change those moments. In the end, I think we will all remember those moments, and have no choice but to reflect on them. It's just being... human. Just to directly answer your question, it doesn't have to be some wild news story that everyone knows because he was a massive celebrity. Sometimes the things that hurt us the most are the things we never tell anyone about.
Every time I see Johnny close that piano at the end ….. I remember them closing my wife’s casket, and me, looking upon her face for the last time. EVERY. LAST. TIME.
Here's something to twist the knife in our hearts... Johnny's daughter commented to him after the final recording, "Daddy, it sounds like you're saying goodbye..." His reply, after a moment of silence, was: "It's because I was, sweetheart."
But there's beauty in being able to say goodbye and also in hearing it. My mom was able to say goodbye and that's comforting in a way. Few people get that opportunity. This is one of a handful of songs that can get a tear out of me. And it does.
Johnny took a deeply personal song about addiction, and, turned it into a melancholy retrospective of an entire lifetime of regrets, and, crafted the most heartfelt farewell in history.
It’s still a song about addiction. He was an addict and had drug and alcohol issues his whole life. This is an old drug addict looking back on his life and being sorry that he wasn’t a better man to his family.
What makes it more emotional is knowing his wife June Carter Cash passed four months after the recording of this song and Johnny would follow soon after. Eventhough his health was deteriorating it was a broken heart of losing June that did him in, a true love story that began in the 60s. Their daughter at one point was interviewed and said she first heard this song with her dad and she turned to him and said it sounded like a goodbye song of sorts, and Johnny replied, Perhaps. Such a powerful song that hits you right in the gut and Johnny made it his own, even Trent Reznor, the one who wrote it publicly conceded it. Another beautiful heartfelt reaction Aileen. Stay awesome and much love.
Actually, June Carter-Cash passed away 3 months after this, and Johnny passed 4 months after her. When his daughter said to him that it felt like he was saying "Goodbye," he replied back, "I am." I completely agree with you that he died of heartbreak, even though complications from Diabetes is what's listed.
@@brheinfeldt sometimes people have a sense when their time is close. My mom was a nurse and she had many stories of going in to check on patients who told her they would never see her again. And sure enough, their bed was empty when she came in the next day. This video may have just been the Johnny Cash version of that same thing.
The scene with June on the stairs was mot scripted. While they were filming the video, she removed herself because she didn't want to see him like that. But as the shoot went long she became concerned for his health and came down the stairs to check on him. The director Mark Romanek was touched by the display of loyalty and protection that he added the scenes with watching from above and timed it with the lines ‘What have I become? My sweetest friend. Everyone I know goes away in the end’ June was the one person who stayed with Cash, even though his addictions would have been enough to drive anyone else away.
I can really relate to this now. I will be 72 years old in 3 days, and although I am absurdly healthy for my age, I know that I am much closer to the grave than to the cradle. I have a new hip and a new knee, and I am experiencing a rebirth of sorts. My new hobby is bikepacking and touring, and I'm enjoying my second childhood immensely. I have no presence on social media, I wouldn't know where to begin. I feel like a stranger in a strange land these days. RUclips is the closest I come, and sites like this are an absolute treasure. My best advice is to leave all regrets behind. They are way too much weight to carry!
I am 52 and since turning 50, the realisation that I have lived more than I will continue to live became very apparent. Then in February this year I was diagnosed with leukemia so that sentiment is now a reality for me. It is hard to keep life's regrets at bay when your own mortality is getting closer as each day passes....
@@gmandersonjr I am a veteran of The U.S. Armored Cavalry, and Medics will always be my hero! Thank you so much for your service! I have to confess that I DID IT ALL too, for better or worse. That is why I can't understand how I could have reached this age in relative health. The fact that I have been in recovery for 19 years probably has a lot to do with it! I'll be getting my other knee replaced next fall, after I do a 250 mile bike tour. I have trained myself to deal with the tsunami of regrets that sometime crash over me in the middle of the night. When I feel it building up momentum I simply yell (silently), "STOP!!!". I picture those thoughts as an ugly little demon who I am booting out the door. It seems to work pretty well. Regrets Need Not Apply!
I think Johnny knew he was checking out soon. Thats why he put so much passion and emotion into it. When he closed the piano at the end, that was his “goodbye” to the world
He definitrly knew. I may be paraphrasing but i heard that when his daughter heard the song, she said "it sounds like youre saying goodbye" and he replied "i am"
@@Torguemada originally, Trent Reznor didn’t particularly love this cover of his song, since it was so personal to him. It was the music video that that changed his mind. Bringing goosebumps to his skin and droplets to his eyes. he even shifted to believing that the lyrics had ethereally changed ownership. Saying “That song isn’t mine anymore”. 🧐
Cash had a long battle with drug addiction. I'm 54 and disabled and deeply understand the regrets of life and how as we get older we would trade everything to get back our youth and health!! I think this song hits every man very hard.
Disabled and many of them as well, pretty much all are things I didn’t do in the opportunities I had to do them, I tell all my younger relatives now don’t be afraid of what anyone else may say or think, take the risk and chances given, you may never get them again
In the end we are all hyphens; the little dash on the headstone between two years or dates - the little mark is all we did and all those we touched in every way.
I'm a 65 year old, 22 years in military, been to war and think of myself as a tough guy, but I cry everytime that I see this video. Can't name another song that hits me like this.
Same here, except I'm 51 with no military. But think this hits harder the older we get and reflect on our lives. Some good,some bad,mistakes made, gains made.
The woman on the stairs was his wife, June Carter Cash. She was a musician herself and toured and performed with him. You can check out the 2 of them singing the song Jackson. The saddest thing is that she passed away during heart surgery before he passed. The line "What have I become, my sweetest friend. Everyone I know, goes away in the end" while showing June gets me every time...
She was a "Carter". The Carter family was the biggest thing in country music if you go back far enough. He fell in love with her while she was married and she was havin' none o' that stuff. But as soon as she got divorced...they were together to the end of their lives. Johnny started to become less self-destructive, less of a wild man* after that' * pot smoker, power drinker and meth afficionado before it was all over the place. Though Hank #1 liked that stuff too, maybe it was more common in the country music biz than my folks told me.
Seeing the look on June's face as she stands there on the stairs looking at Johnny breaks my heart. The family were rather concerned about Johnny choosing to cover this song. It was so raw and honest. First time I saw the video the part where Johnny closed the piano lid gave me vibes of him closing a casket lid. It kind of broke me. Best song cover I've ever heard.
I grew up listening to the NIN version, and as I grew up I added Johnny Cash into my collection because I loved his style, "Steady like a train, sharp like a razor". My wife passed away in 2003, a year after the album with this song was released. This song helped me to cope, and allowed me to break down and let it all out when I needed to. I remember reading a guitar magazine back in the day when someone asked a musician why they wrote sad music, and the musician's reply was "so that others will know that they aren't alone in their sadness"....and that has stuck with me my whole life. Thank you for reacting to this song!
Yep, this is a cover of Nine Inch Nails. Trent Reznor of NIN, notoriously protective of his own work, later commented that this song was no longer his own and belonged to Johnny. Arguably one of the greatest covers of all time.
@@danielgerald4551 no, you're totally wrong. Bertie Black is right, this song was originally by NIN, Cash did a cover and Trent said that this song no longer belonged to NIN but to Johnny Cash.
The moment when he closes the piano case... knowing it's the last performance he'll ever have. That is always the moment that strikes me. Respect your elders, appreciate life, enjoy the journey. These words might be light or heavy depending on your age, but they will weigh all the same.
There was emphasis on Johnny closing the piano at the end because they knew that would be the last time ever played it. It was indeed the last time he touched his piano
This song was made and written by Nine Inch Nails. The leader singer made this song about a middle aged mans life spiraling out of control and losing the ones around him due to death and drugs/ overdoses'. Johnny Cash took the song changed one word and made it about and old man looking back on his life losing those around him due to age and what year to year can do to a friendship. Nine Inch Nails lead singer wasn't happy about this because the song was soooo personal to him. Once he heard the song he said, "this is now cash's song". Cash is the ONLY person in the Country Hall of Fame, Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame, AND the Songwriters Hallo of Fame. You could literally write a Harry Potter 10 book story about this man's life and still have chapters left out... During this song his wife passed away. His daughter told him that this song sounds like he is saying goodbye... Johnny replied, "I am saying goodbye; I miss my June (wife June Carter)". Johnny passed away like 4 months after releasing this song.... RIP Legend.
I am an old lady and I have been a fan of Johnny Cash since his very first record "Cry, Cry, Cry" was released back in the mid-50's. (I told you I was old.) The images of Jesus being nailed to the cross came from a movie made back in 1973 that Johnny Cash starred in, narrated and for which he wrote the musical score, called Gospel Road. I have seen "Hurt" dozens of times and I cry EVERY TIME. "Hurt" will flat rip your heart out but if you want to listen to a song by Cash that will make you smile, react to "A Boy Named Sue", "One Piece at a Time" or "The One on the Left is on the Right". I think my favorite songs by Cash are "Sunday Morning Comin' Down" and "Here Comes that Rainbow Again." A great story-telling song by Cash is "Cisco Clifton's Fillin' Station". I have never heard Cisco Clifton on the radio but fortunately it was on an album of Cash's that I have and that is the ONLY place I had ever heard it but now fortunately someone has put it on RUclips, so it is available for anyone to listen to. BTW, I appreciate the fact that you didn't try to chatter over the lyrics of this song. I carefully watched your face and believe me; you didn't actually have to say a word. Your feelings were very clear on your face. I was delighted to become a new subscriber.
I always did love this song and jonny did it much justice. The closing on the piano at the end always get me. Now I gotta listen to "One piece at a time" to lift my spirits
I am dealing with the loss of my beloved to cancer and I buried my dog two days ago. That line, "Everyone I know goes away in the end" always hits me hard but today it touched a deep trauma. Thank you.
@@Kwisgaar Thank you for that. Every kind word lifts me up. I feel I should name them both. Leann and Bonnie, two beautiful souls. I am grateful to have found them in my life.
Deepest condolences. My dad and I had a deep connection through Johnny Cash. We lost him to a brain aneurysm at 48, I was 23. He didn't get to hear this but he would have loved it. The loss never goes away, but they live through our memories. Relive them, retell them,that's the best way to keep them by your side
I just read your message and although I don’t know you, my heart breaks for you. I have tears in my eyes for your losses. This song is hard for me because Mr. Cash and my father were so similar in many ways and they both had their demons they struggled with. My father passed away very shortly after this song came out and to this day my heart still hurts. May God bless you and give you strength.
In NIN's hands, "Hurt" was a self-indulgent pity party. In Johnny Cash's hands, it was a musical icon looking back and realizing that all the money and fame and success hadn't bought him another moment, and more so that he didn't want another moment. Absolutely heartbreaking.
I loved your comments and reaction. You are clearly a thoughtful and kind person. So many young reactors may know the name but are truly unaware of Johnny Cash's long history as a music legend or the ups and downs of his life and career. I understand that he was living with constant chronic pain for some time before he died, and certainly while he was filming this video, which just puts an even finer edge on the meaning of the lyrics. The woman in the photograph was his mom. The woman on the stairs was his wife. She and Johnny both passed away within months of each other, which I find even more touching. I've heard that when he showed this video to his family, his daughter said, "Daddy, it feels like you are saying goodbye," and he replied, "I am."
It still hurts me, after Johnny passed seeing June on the stairs looking down at him. And now, since my Dad passed away it hurt so much more...hold those close to you while they are with you.
This cover makes me cry every time. I'm a person who never cries over anything really. I'm numb. But this song, tears me down. In the end the hardest part of life is watching your loved ones grow old and pass. Worst part of life is that it ends.
I used to be numb, but after becoming a father and getting older shit hits me in my feels way more than I'd like it to. I'm getting feels to a Jay and Silent Bob film. I feel so wrong, but it hits so hard.
No matter how many times I hear this, I always break down into tears. I've instructed my loved ones to play this at my funeral. I feel every line, every emotion in this song so much, it just tears me down
In the end, the humility to come clean and be honest that the platinum material gain is dirt and worldly rewards turn over crushed by repentance and grace is received.
THIS WAS SUCH AN EMOTIONAL SONG FOR JOHNNY. HE LOST HIS WIFE NOT LONG AFTER MAKING THIS AND HE LOST HIS LIFE NOT LONG AFTER HER. I CRY EVERY TIME I HEAR THIS. WHAT A GREAT REACTION
It was his mother in the picture. To make this song even more sad 2 months after this song's release, his wife (The woman on the stairs) died. Four months after that Johnny himself died. What a perfect song to be ones final professional recording. Even the way he closes the piano at the end looks like he is saying goodbye. Best requiem since Mozart.
Johnny made the last days of his life into his art. Reminds me of how David Bowie did the same using Blackstar as a farewell love letter to his fans. Both are legends for the music they gave us.
An incredible song indeed and an emotional goodbye song, for me though, the only comparable song would be Freddie Mercury with Queen’s ‘The Show Must Go On’, such a powerful song from a man who knew he was living his final days.
Your analysis is spot-on. Johnny was interviewed after releasing this and said that he had so many regrets about his younger years (substance abuse, family relationships, spiritual relationship with God). That he was able to make peace with himself prior to his wife passing on and then himself passing on is a blessing for all of us that held him in high esteem. R.I.P., Johnny!
The NIN version really works best when you listen to it in context to the album. The Johnny Cash version just fucking works, full stop. He really made it his own.
I disagree with you, politely, as someone who is a big fan of NIN too. Hurt you can feel a lot of Trent's own pain listening to the song. Particularly with the choices. It feels empty but for the pain, a sense of hopelessness. But I always felt it sort of worked with the story of the CD, because Trent does like story albums, but was always a more personal Trent song. Probably why trent needed time to warm up to this cover. Not only was it one of his songs which he's infamously attached to but a *him* song.
@@athannyx6815 The thing is Trent wrote Hurt before he had his spiral into dependency. His albums were like a forshaodwing of how he was going to struggle. The songs do both work if you look at the singers and the lives they led. Trent was heading into his troubles, Johnny had live a lot of those same troubles before singing his version.
@@Darkeklaw I noticed that and I always resonated more with Trent's as a younger person like he was then. I do not feel Johnny Cash's version actually displaces Trent's. It just has more gravitas so when you're listening in that moment, it takes over everything. They both are good.
I always think that the NIN original is a song of self loathing, whereas this one is a song of regret and broken promises. This video is also a masterpiece, weaving in the past at great points. His grand finale. Thanks for this heartfelt reaction Aileen, be well.
The shattered record breaks my heart. Columbia records unceremoniously dropped John after years and millions of dollars. John never forgave them for it. If it wasn't for the brilliance and acumen of Rick Rubin, John would have faded away. Instead he did some of the best work of his life at the end of his life. I grew up in punk. I still am. We could all agree that Johnny Cash and Chuck Berry were two of the OG punks.
This song never plays without tears streaming down my face. It can mean so much to so many, and was so well written by Trent Reznor that it can allow anyone to feel as if it applies to them. But Johnny’s performance here, towards the end of his life, gives it such power. Loved the reaction.❤
When he closed the piano, he would never open it again. As a person in the twilight, it resonates with me more than many, as I watch hero after hero lose their battle with time. I'm the furthest thing away from being a country fan, but I appreciate those who transcend the categories to produce very meaningful and heartfelt music that defies the labels, and Johnny was one of those. Perhaps the most emotional song of all time.
Seeing Johnny Cash's 'Hurt' always brings a tear to my eye. It's like he was grieving for June, knowing she had gone before him and feeling the weight of his own impending horizon. A haunting yet beautiful farewell from a man who had lost so much. This song feels like a heart laid bare. Rest in power, both of you.
The first time I heard this song was when WWE used it to pay tribute to Eddie Guerrero when he passed away. It touched me deeply. Shortly after I listened to it more closely. Clearly the Man in Black knew his time was coming, and yet he remained true to himself. This is indeed one of those songs that can truly reach down to your heart and soul. His spirit lives in his music.
Amazing reaction as usual Aileen. This song is the definition of money can't buy happiness. The fact that he is saying after all his success, and the Empire of Music he built, you can have it all and it's nothing more than just dirt to him now at his age. That says so much. Ironically enough, I read somewhere that when his daughter saw this, she said "It sounds like you're saying goodbye" to which he replied "I think I am." He died not very long after this was released too. As for Trent Reznor, after he saw this he ended stating "It's not really my song anymore." Crazy how music can touch people and be interpreted in so many ways. Trent wrote it as an angry, depressed young person (as many of us are) at the beginning of his life, able to change and grow adapt, and make the world his and Johnny was able to make it his own as a Swan Song for a man who had the world, was at the true end of his life and career, and was unable to change and grow much futher than he had. Really puts ALLOT into perspective
I have watched many "first time hearing" videos of this song, and I have to say that you are the first person who felt this and got it. So refreshing. Thank you for your sensitivity and heartfelt commentary.
Johnny knew he was about to pass. Before he passed when the song was released his daughter asked him "why does it feel like you're telling everyone goodbye?" He simply replied "I am"
The story is so much more tragic. This was one of his last song videos he ever did. His wife had told him he could keep singing as long as he wanted as she felt he might die if she took his singing away. Sadly she passed away shortly after this video and he lasted less than 6 months before he passed away. Trent gave him permission to do the cover of the song, but did not think he could do it justice. He was actually impressed with what Johnny did with his song. There is a live version sung by Trent (Nine Inch Nails) done back in 2010 that is incredible. This song is in my top 10.
@@datadivanet No. It seems it was from 2007, but one version was posted on RUclips in 2010. Sadly I can not longer find the HD version but the performance is great. ruclips.net/video/AvJKVKglIRs/видео.html
After hearing Johnny Cash's cover, Trent Reznor said it's no longer his song, it's a Johnny Cash song now. He was so blown away. If you get a chance, Trent Reznor has an unplugged version of this, just him and a piano, which is also amazing.
Now that I'm old and grey, I know why this song was so important to JC. As we get toward the final days, what haunts us are the regrets we carry for the mistakes we've made. The pain and suffering that our actions sometimes caused and the pain we put in someone else's eyes. This was Cash's small way of saying "I'm sorry".
Sometimes, an artist covers a song and you just know that no matter how many come after, they will never own it. Johnny Cash owns this song. R.I.P., Johnny.
Johnny Cash was in tremendous pain the last 10 years of his life and never complained about, trying to downplay his pain. His daughter and son confirmed it. Professor of Rock released a video 5 days ago about Hurt. It's definitely worth the watch
There is a world of Johnny Cash songs to explore. I love: When the man comes around, Cocaine Blues, Man in Black, Five Feet High And Rising, One Piece At A Time, Jackson, and so many more.
A song was released after his passing, that really shook me cause of the response of the industry, Dozens of singers/songwriters got together to make the music video to pay homage, to the one and only Johnny Cash, in his song God's Gonna Cut you Down. just watching the video and hearing the song, you realize how many souls he touched not just as a singer but as a Human Being, A legend that walked amongst us such an amazing person R.I.P Johnny Cash.
This is one the most sad and beautiful songs I’ve ever heard, He is the GOAT. It’s doesn’t matter how much money or fame you have, if you don’t have have your mental and/or physical health you have nothing.
Thank you for your beautiful commentary on what I believe is one of the most powerful musical performances ever. So many listens later, I still get misty eyed.
This is why so many people love Johnny Cash. He’s one of us. He was a believer but he was a rebel. He wanted to make the right choices in life but he often made wrong ones. He loved his wife but often broke her heart. He loved his father but there was so much conflict. He spent time in mansions and in jails. He lived life to the fullest, exploring the ups and downs with passion and recklessness at times. And he gave all this to those who will listen through his music. Rest in peace Johnny. Much love from Georgia.
As a lot have mentioned here, the end when he closes the piano just rips my heart out BUT the worst part for me was the expression on his wife’s face. Tears every time. Peace
This always makes me tear up, sometimes full on cry. He makes me think of my grandpa passing 😞 It’s beautiful and the intention and emotion in his voice is so authentic. I love the NIN version, but they aren’t even comparable. Almost two different songs. 🖤
Wow. Once again, Aileen, you absolutely “got” the video, right off the bat. The hurt from Mr Cash is palpable, even though this was not his song, this ended up being “his” song. Great reaction, as always…
Aileen, Johnny was the real thing. He could talk the talk AND walk the walk!! YOU are correct this is a cover --- It was written by Trent Reznor of 9 inch nails. After hearing Johnny's cover Trent said it is NOT my song anymore. John died about one year after he made this video. John's daughter heard this and told her dad -- "It sounds like you are saying goodbye. John told her, "I am"... AND the way he closes the piano key cover at the end is SO touching!!! Never assume -- At 5:15 that is a picture of Johnny and his wife June. And again at 6:something another shot of June. And in another part of this video there was a picture of Johnny's mother. I am going to share a story with you. My youngest son and I were at WalMart one day. He walked up to me and showed me a music CD. He asked if I would buy it for him. It was Johnny Cashs greatest hits. I told him I would be honored to buy it for him. Once we got back out to the car. I put the CD in the player. He had never heard "A Boy Named Sue." He laughed so hard, I thought he might crack a rib. At that point he got a lecture -- I told him Johnny was an artist that helped construct Country and Western into the monster business it is today. Plus back in the day he had a TV program. John was the Man in Black!!! Thank goodness we have video and film of him. Plus his records and music CD's. That same son mentioned above is an United States Marine now. He joined when he was 17 years old. Another proud moment for me..... Aileen thank YOU for this channel. Please take care of yourself and keep making these videos. please. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!! Until the nest time..... We love and adore you.
I have a hard time not crying when I watch this video. My dad was fighting back tears when I showed it to him on my phone. It's just rough...and great.
It was his goodbye to his children. To me, it was also his way of saying that he wished he could have done things better for his kids, especially looking back on his troubled life. Coming from a troubled past myself, your reaction felt really heart felt and I appreciate all you do.
Correct me if i’m wrong but this was one of if not the last songs he recorded, and i view as an apology to all the people he wronged, and his goodbye to the world and a way of saying “i’m going to be with June” R.I.P. Johnny u are a legend among legends.
June Carter, a renowned country music singer in her own right was his wife. He was deeply devoted to her. She stuck with him during terrible drug addiction. They had a family. She was his world. She passed before him and his heart was broken, it was all with her he said. I believe when two hearts are so connected when one departs the other has no reason to beat.
Same with Elvis. Most raw and pure statement of incredible talent and charisma was his last concerts. He was sick and absolutely torn apart but still sang in tears like no one can.
One of the realest songs I've ever watched. His wife went through even more than JC even with the Drug addiction his wife stood by his side. Cash will forever and always be a legend but remember, underneath the materialistic things and all the money one might have, we all have feelings and emotions. Great reaction as always 🌹
Johnny’s wife died a couple months after they filmed this. He survived her by a couple more months. What gets me the most is that when he played this to his adult daughter, she told him it sounds like he’s saying ‘Goodbye’. His answer was that he was.
Don't apologize for your words. You're reactions always seem to get to the heart of the music and I love them. That's why I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the great insight. And yes, even though Johnny didn't write this song, it fits him and his life so well that he could have
This was his last song, the last time that piano played.... His life was a life of giants, but in the end, even a legend isn't immune from loss. His life is equal parts wonder and tragedy.
I read that when his daughter, Roseanne Cash, herself a great singer-songwriter, heard this, she said, "It sounds like you're saying goodbye." He said, "I am."
This song never fails to give me goosebumps. He voice is so unapologetically raw, and that just adds to the context of the song, that he is someone who as lived and has regrets. So good.
It was his requiem for his beloved wife June Carter Cash (who was also a famous country singer and literally saved his life from addiction) as she was dying. It didnt take long for him to go to her again. Just a massively raw and emotional song.
Johnny led a hard life. He battled addiction, lost his brother as a boy, and was abandoned by his own industry. His wife June passed away shortly before this was released, he didn't long survive her. One thing about his career is he reinvented himself after country decided he was done, recording new versions of songs by the likes of Soundgarden, Glen Danzig, and here NIN. You notice I didn't say covers because they aren't covers any more than Disturbed's take on Sound of Silence. They're works of art in their own right. Great reaction
This is just a heartbreaking song and video. Johnny Cash at the very end of his life. It’s actually a cover of Nine Inch Nails, but Trent Reznor gave it his blessing. Essentially it was written for Cash to perform at the end.
Every time I watch his video, I think of my grandparents. When Johnny Cash sings "Everyone leaves in the end;" I think of their lives as they go when friends and family pass away. I used to think wow they were so lucky to have lived so long, but I never really thought of the pain they had to live through as they lost people along the way who didn't live so long. My grandfather lived to 78, and my grandmother lived to 93. And now as I get older, and have lost friends and family along the way, it gives me a new perspective and appreciation for the strength of character my grandparents had. They had always been such role models for me as a young man, but now as I grow older and wiser, I have even more appreciation for the lives they led.
While filming this, his wife June came downstairs to check on him because he had been working for a number of hours trying to finish this video and she didn't want him to exhaust himself... She was worried about him... She ended up being in the video... This was another great reaction, Aileen... I'm finding myself binge watching your videos...lol... Keep being awesome !!!..
You passed the human test. You cried from watching Hurt by J.C. I am a large brutish 50 year old man that lives on a farm and I lose it every time. The part where his wife comes down the stairs is a real reaction from her hearing him play the song. I can't hold it together from that point on.
Johnny Cash died not too long after recording and filming this. It was basically his goodbye. He heard the NIN original and was moved by the lyrics and they hit home with the regrets he felt late in his life.
@Petrovic I've read that he was moved by the lyrics, which aligned with his regret, but wasn't sure he wanted to record someone else's song. Rubin convinced him to record it.
@Petrovic If you can watch this video and say it wasn't a goodbye, you really need to take a look at how you look at life. Even if Rick Rubin did suggest it in the end Cash preformed it and if nothing else had the final say so in the production of the video. He knew his time was short and what better way to put a mark on his legacy.
I love this version. It's such a cool 180 from NIN's original. I consider this cover and Disturbed's take on The Sound of Silence to be a cool genre-swapping duo that juxtapositions each other perfectly. Cash takes a rock song and elevates it in a completely different genre, which Disturbed took a classic song from a whole other genre and elevated it as a rock ballad. I don't know if the two covers came out at the same time but I remember discovering them both at the same time.
Even if this song is a cover he make it is song! For him this is a "testament" is last word and when he close the piano for him and us , we know it is the end... Thanks for everything Mister Cash!
The original version is by Trent Reznor and Nine Inch Nails. The story goes that when Trent heard Johnny Cash cover the song he said " This is no longer my song, it belongs to Johnny Cash." R.I.P. Johnny Cash.
I was just about to say the same thing. That is such a respectful thing to say about your own song. Wow. I wasn't ready for this. Damn.
@@thedrunkbard4772 I've been listening to this song since he, meaning Johnny Cash released it and I'm never ready for the emotional punch I receive every single time I listen to it, making me weep. I've been listening to Johnny Cash's music my entire life, seems to me. I was born in 1975.
Trent recently said "it not even my song anymore
@@stevehunt9051 I gained a tremendous amount of respect for Trent Reznor when he said that.
That's kinda amazing considering how self-absorbed Trent is IRL.
One hell of a farewell letter to the world. Him closing the Piano kills me every time.
and he never opened it again after that.
@@manwithnoname3279 sadly
Whenever I see his hands running over the piano cover at the end, it makes me think of someone running their hands over the coffin...
It was like he was closing his own coffin, and saying goodbye.
He showed the video to his daughter, and she said "Dad, it's like you're saying 'Goodbye'." To which he replied that he was. June Carter Cash passed away a couple of months after this video was released, and Johnny followed a few months later. RIP to the Legendary Man in Black.
Trent said he wrote the original song from the perspective of a young person looking at the future and feeling hopeless, and Johnny took the song from the perspective of an old man looking back. It was so powerful coming from Johnny due to his story and the raw authenticity he sings it from cause he lived it. Trent said it was so good he considers this the original song now. RIP Johnny Cash
Amazing...
the old looking back is infinitly more sad, he cant change the past and has little future left.
Yep, Trent said that he felt like he was born to write the song, but it was really Johnny who was meant to play/record it. And after he heard this version of it, Trent said the song didn't belong to him or nine inch nails anymore. It belonged to Johnny.
This is totally inaccurate. Cash wrote this is the 70’s around Folsom Prison and the nine inch nails band did a cover in the 90’s
@@danielgerald4551 no lol that’s not true at all what are you saying? There are even interviews with Trent about this and Johnny cash. This song was 100% written by Trent and 9 inch nails and covered in his later years by Cash. Don’t know where you got that from but it’s false
The Lady in the picture was his Mother. The Lady that was actually in the video was his wife June... She died three months after the video was released and he died 6 months later after her. In essence this was his goodbye and apology to his family and his God all in the same video for letting them both down in the long run. This song, though not his own, has been ranked as the #3 most beloved and moving Johnny Cash song of all time.
Apology for what? Not big on Johnny cash’s life
@@petergriffinson1907 When you reach the end of your life, will you have no regrets? Real or imagined, we all have moments in our lives where we wished we had been better. Everyone makes mistakes, but true acceptance is admitting your mistakes and knowing that nothing you can do can change those moments. In the end, I think we will all remember those moments, and have no choice but to reflect on them. It's just being... human.
Just to directly answer your question, it doesn't have to be some wild news story that everyone knows because he was a massive celebrity. Sometimes the things that hurt us the most are the things we never tell anyone about.
Sending love out to June & Johnny
@@petergriffinson1907He made a lot of mistakes some legal. Dude lived an interesting life should look into it more
This is my favorite song. Could have been about me.....
Every time I see Johnny close that piano at the end ….. I remember them closing my wife’s casket, and me, looking upon her face for the last time.
EVERY. LAST. TIME.
sorry for your loss homie. hope you're hanging in there.
sory man-that sux-hope you are doing ok
So very sorry :(
I’m sorry for your loss.
Here's something to twist the knife in our hearts...
Johnny's daughter commented to him after the final recording, "Daddy, it sounds like you're saying goodbye..."
His reply, after a moment of silence, was: "It's because I was, sweetheart."
But there's beauty in being able to say goodbye and also in hearing it. My mom was able to say goodbye and that's comforting in a way. Few people get that opportunity.
This is one of a handful of songs that can get a tear out of me. And it does.
The even sadder part is, Johnny Cash passed away a mere few months after he recorded this song.
@@michaelschmidt7939following his wife, June Carter, who'd passed shortly after filming the video for Hurt.
@@tiralana8360 June Carter was his second wife. His first wife, Vivian Liberto, passed in 2005.
@@kennyo6582 I'm aware. June Carter was still his wife though, and more importantly she was the love of his life.
Johnny took a deeply personal song about addiction, and, turned it into a melancholy retrospective of an entire lifetime of regrets, and, crafted the most heartfelt farewell in history.
... and Rick Rubin's stripped down, raw production, and, mixing puts it over the top.
Totally. So powerful.
It’s still a song about addiction. He was an addict and had drug and alcohol issues his whole life. This is an old drug addict looking back on his life and being sorry that he wasn’t a better man to his family.
@knightwalkr It's more then drugs though. He even made the lyrics mean more.
What makes it more emotional is knowing his wife June Carter Cash passed four months after the recording of this song and Johnny would follow soon after. Eventhough his health was deteriorating it was a broken heart of losing June that did him in, a true love story that began in the 60s.
Their daughter at one point was interviewed and said she first heard this song with her dad and she turned to him and said it sounded like a goodbye song of sorts, and Johnny replied, Perhaps.
Such a powerful song that hits you right in the gut and Johnny made it his own, even Trent Reznor, the one who wrote it publicly conceded it.
Another beautiful heartfelt reaction Aileen. Stay awesome and much love.
Actually, June Carter-Cash passed away 3 months after this, and Johnny passed 4 months after her. When his daughter said to him that it felt like he was saying "Goodbye," he replied back, "I am." I completely agree with you that he died of heartbreak, even though complications from Diabetes is what's listed.
This is what makes it hardest for me to watch the video, true love ending.
@@brheinfeldt sometimes people have a sense when their time is close. My mom was a nurse and she had many stories of going in to check on patients who told her they would never see her again. And sure enough, their bed was empty when she came in the next day. This video may have just been the Johnny Cash version of that same thing.
The scene with June on the stairs was mot scripted. While they were filming the video, she removed herself because she didn't want to see him like that. But as the shoot went long she became concerned for his health and came down the stairs to check on him. The director Mark Romanek was touched by the display of loyalty and protection that he added the scenes with watching from above and timed it with the lines ‘What have I become? My sweetest friend. Everyone I know goes away in the end’ June was the one person who stayed with Cash, even though his addictions would have been enough to drive anyone else away.
Having so many years with wife his true love. He was blessed.
I can really relate to this now. I will be 72 years old in 3 days, and although I am absurdly healthy for my age, I know that I am much closer to the grave than to the cradle. I have a new hip and a new knee, and I am experiencing a rebirth of sorts. My new hobby is bikepacking and touring, and I'm enjoying my second childhood immensely. I have no presence on social media, I wouldn't know where to begin. I feel like a stranger in a strange land these days. RUclips is the closest I come, and sites like this are an absolute treasure. My best advice is to leave all regrets behind. They are way too much weight to carry!
Agree , leave the past where it belongs, In The Past. ..what's done is"Done ! ...😢
@@gloriamartinez8960 AMEN!
I am 52 and since turning 50, the realisation that I have lived more than I will continue to live became very apparent. Then in February this year I was diagnosed with leukemia so that sentiment is now a reality for me. It is hard to keep life's regrets at bay when your own mortality is getting closer as each day passes....
I am a former combat medic, lifeguard and dietitian now. I get you bro. I did it all. Those injuries are cathing up on me now. No regrets.
@@gmandersonjr I am a veteran of The U.S. Armored Cavalry, and Medics will always be my hero! Thank you so much for your service! I have to confess that I DID IT ALL too, for better or worse. That is why I can't understand how I could have reached this age in relative health. The fact that I have been in recovery for 19 years probably has a lot to do with it! I'll be getting my other knee replaced next fall, after I do a 250 mile bike tour. I have trained myself to deal with the tsunami of regrets that sometime crash over me in the middle of the night. When I feel it building up momentum I simply yell (silently), "STOP!!!". I picture those thoughts as an ugly little demon who I am booting out the door. It seems to work pretty well. Regrets Need Not Apply!
I think Johnny knew he was checking out soon. Thats why he put so much passion and emotion into it. When he closed the piano at the end, that was his “goodbye” to the world
The video was also shot like he were closing a coffin of a close friend.
Johnny's exit is probably many men's exit. Emotions put into a song in which most would keep until they sleep.
He definitrly knew. I may be paraphrasing but i heard that when his daughter heard the song, she said "it sounds like youre saying goodbye" and he replied "i am"
He did. He and his wife were both already diagnosed with cancer at that point.
Johnny's swansong. The closing of the piano is perfect. Rest in Peace to the Man in Black.
❤
The final stage of grief. Acceptance.
@@CristiNeagu Well Stated
Seeing his wife in the video knowing she would die not too long after this, talk about premonitions of their deaths.
@@MrRudyc85 I hear ya
Even though it's a cover, Johnny really made this song his own.
That he did, heck even Reznor has said that he feels its not his song anymore.
@@Torguemada originally, Trent Reznor didn’t particularly love this cover of his song, since it was so personal to him. It was the music video that that changed his mind. Bringing goosebumps to his skin and droplets to his eyes. he even shifted to believing that the lyrics had ethereally changed ownership. Saying “That song isn’t mine anymore”. 🧐
The greatest cover ever.
Heartbreaking, tortured lyrics from a young genius, empathized with and repeated by an elder legend.
Agreed
same words. same regrets but amplified by age and experience. fucking devastating
Nirvana's The man who sold the world is also a masterpiece
Cash had a long battle with drug addiction. I'm 54 and disabled and deeply understand the regrets of life and how as we get older we would trade everything to get back our youth and health!! I think this song hits every man very hard.
Disabled and many of them as well, pretty much all are things I didn’t do in the opportunities I had to do them, I tell all my younger relatives now don’t be afraid of what anyone else may say or think, take the risk and chances given, you may never get them again
"In the end, all we have are our stories." Burt Reynolds, RIP.
In the end we are all hyphens; the little dash on the headstone between two years or dates - the little mark is all we did and all those we touched in every way.
I'm a 65 year old, 22 years in military, been to war and think of myself as a tough guy, but I cry everytime that I see this video.
Can't name another song that hits me like this.
Same here, except I'm 51 with no military. But think this hits harder the older we get and reflect on our lives. Some good,some bad,mistakes made, gains made.
I would also cry if I killed people I don’t even know because the government told me too.
@@OTB2002 ignorant comment
@@johnnyboots481 am I not telling the truth?
@@rexrogers1859 you can’t handle the truth😂😂
The woman on the stairs was his wife, June Carter Cash. She was a musician herself and toured and performed with him. You can check out the 2 of them singing the song Jackson. The saddest thing is that she passed away during heart surgery before he passed. The line "What have I become, my sweetest friend. Everyone I know, goes away in the end" while showing June gets me every time...
Same here. She was the love of his life.. I feel hurt for their son.....
She was a "Carter". The Carter family was the biggest thing in country music if you go back far enough. He fell in love with her while she was married and she was havin' none o' that stuff. But as soon as she got divorced...they were together to the end of their lives. Johnny started to become less self-destructive, less of a wild man* after that'
* pot smoker, power drinker and meth afficionado before it was all over the place. Though Hank #1 liked that stuff too, maybe it was more common in the country music biz than my folks told me.
Seeing the look on June's face as she stands there on the stairs looking at Johnny breaks my heart. The family were rather concerned about Johnny choosing to cover this song. It was so raw and honest. First time I saw the video the part where Johnny closed the piano lid gave me vibes of him closing a casket lid. It kind of broke me. Best song cover I've ever heard.
And then she left first. Not to wish the grief on her by switching their places, but it really puts this song into perspective.
I'm a old man by myself... Johnny sings out the truth. I'm always crying if I hear this song.
The way Johnny Cash closes the piano is heart breaking in its own.
I grew up listening to the NIN version, and as I grew up I added Johnny Cash into my collection because I loved his style, "Steady like a train, sharp like a razor". My wife passed away in 2003, a year after the album with this song was released. This song helped me to cope, and allowed me to break down and let it all out when I needed to. I remember reading a guitar magazine back in the day when someone asked a musician why they wrote sad music, and the musician's reply was "so that others will know that they aren't alone in their sadness"....and that has stuck with me my whole life. Thank you for reacting to this song!
Yep, this is a cover of Nine Inch Nails. Trent Reznor of NIN, notoriously protective of his own work, later commented that this song was no longer his own and belonged to Johnny. Arguably one of the greatest covers of all time.
This is totally inaccurate. Cash wrote this is the 70’s around Folsom Prison and the nine inch nails band did a cover in the 90’s
@@danielgerald4551 ummmm....... no? THIS is totally inaccurate :')
@@danielgerald4551 no, you're totally wrong. Bertie Black is right, this song was originally by NIN, Cash did a cover and Trent said that this song no longer belonged to NIN but to Johnny Cash.
@@fahrinf no you got it wrong.
@@danielgerald4551
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurt_(Nine_Inch_Nails_song)
The moment when he closes the piano case... knowing it's the last performance he'll ever have. That is always the moment that strikes me. Respect your elders, appreciate life, enjoy the journey. These words might be light or heavy depending on your age, but they will weigh all the same.
There was emphasis on Johnny closing the piano at the end because they knew that would be the last time ever played it. It was indeed the last time he touched his piano
This song was made and written by Nine Inch Nails. The leader singer made this song about a middle aged mans life spiraling out of control and losing the ones around him due to death and drugs/ overdoses'. Johnny Cash took the song changed one word and made it about and old man looking back on his life losing those around him due to age and what year to year can do to a friendship. Nine Inch Nails lead singer wasn't happy about this because the song was soooo personal to him. Once he heard the song he said, "this is now cash's song". Cash is the ONLY person in the Country Hall of Fame, Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame, AND the Songwriters Hallo of Fame. You could literally write a Harry Potter 10 book story about this man's life and still have chapters left out... During this song his wife passed away. His daughter told him that this song sounds like he is saying goodbye... Johnny replied, "I am saying goodbye; I miss my June (wife June Carter)". Johnny passed away like 4 months after releasing this song.... RIP Legend.
If this version doesn't give you "feels", you're already dead inside...
God, this song along with the video just gets me every time…
I am an old lady and I have been a fan of Johnny Cash since his very first record "Cry, Cry, Cry" was released back in the mid-50's. (I told you I was old.) The images of Jesus being nailed to the cross came from a movie made back in 1973 that Johnny Cash starred in, narrated and for which he wrote the musical score, called Gospel Road. I have seen "Hurt" dozens of times and I cry EVERY TIME. "Hurt" will flat rip your heart out but if you want to listen to a song by Cash that will make you smile, react to "A Boy Named Sue", "One Piece at a Time" or "The One on the Left is on the Right".
I think my favorite songs by Cash are "Sunday Morning Comin' Down" and "Here Comes that Rainbow Again." A great story-telling song by Cash is "Cisco Clifton's Fillin' Station". I have never heard Cisco Clifton on the radio but fortunately it was on an album of Cash's that I have and that is the ONLY place I had ever heard it but now fortunately someone has put it on RUclips, so it is available for anyone to listen to. BTW, I appreciate the fact that you didn't try to chatter over the lyrics of this song. I carefully watched your face and believe me; you didn't actually have to say a word. Your feelings were very clear on your face. I was delighted to become a new subscriber.
I always did love this song and jonny did it much justice. The closing on the piano at the end always get me. Now I gotta listen to "One piece at a time" to lift my spirits
I am dealing with the loss of my beloved to cancer and I buried my dog two days ago. That line, "Everyone I know goes away in the end" always hits me hard but today it touched a deep trauma. Thank you.
@Patrick Quinlan I'm so sorry to hear, it's always heartbreaking but stay strong.
@@Kwisgaar Thank you for that. Every kind word lifts me up. I feel I should name them both. Leann and Bonnie, two beautiful souls. I am grateful to have found them in my life.
I'm so sorry. :(
Deepest condolences. My dad and I had a deep connection through Johnny Cash. We lost him to a brain aneurysm at 48, I was 23. He didn't get to hear this but he would have loved it. The loss never goes away, but they live through our memories. Relive them, retell them,that's the best way to keep them by your side
I just read your message and although I don’t know you, my heart breaks for you. I have tears in my eyes for your losses. This song is hard for me because Mr. Cash and my father were so similar in many ways and they both had their demons they struggled with. My father passed away very shortly after this song came out and to this day my heart still hurts. May God bless you and give you strength.
Gallons of tears dropped while listening this song. Rest In Peace dear Johnny ❤
In NIN's hands, "Hurt" was a self-indulgent pity party. In Johnny Cash's hands, it was a musical icon looking back and realizing that all the money and fame and success hadn't bought him another moment, and more so that he didn't want another moment. Absolutely heartbreaking.
Perfect interpretation. Thank You
@@jamier.2107 I appreciate that. I just wish I could listen to this song more often but it's too painful.
I loved your comments and reaction. You are clearly a thoughtful and kind person. So many young reactors may know the name but are truly unaware of Johnny Cash's long history as a music legend or the ups and downs of his life and career. I understand that he was living with constant chronic pain for some time before he died, and certainly while he was filming this video, which just puts an even finer edge on the meaning of the lyrics. The woman in the photograph was his mom. The woman on the stairs was his wife. She and Johnny both passed away within months of each other, which I find even more touching. I've heard that when he showed this video to his family, his daughter said, "Daddy, it feels like you are saying goodbye," and he replied, "I am."
Amen
It still hurts me, after Johnny passed seeing June on the stairs looking down at him. And now, since my Dad passed away it hurt so much more...hold those close to you while they are with you.
That runs deep with both of us man rip dad and God bless you
The imagery of him closing the fall board of his piano at the end is crazy powerful, given that he died shortly after covering the song.
Symbolic of the closing of the casket
20 years after his passing, Johnny still can make girls cry.
He can still make the eyes water for many of us "tough" dudes as well
This cover makes me cry every time. I'm a person who never cries over anything really. I'm numb. But this song, tears me down. In the end the hardest part of life is watching your loved ones grow old and pass. Worst part of life is that it ends.
I used to be numb, but after becoming a father and getting older shit hits me in my feels way more than I'd like it to. I'm getting feels to a Jay and Silent Bob film. I feel so wrong, but it hits so hard.
No matter how many times I hear this, I always break down into tears. I've instructed my loved ones to play this at my funeral. I feel every line, every emotion in this song so much, it just tears me down
Makes me reflect over our lives
In the end, the humility to come clean and be honest that the platinum material gain is dirt and worldly rewards turn over crushed by repentance and grace is received.
THIS WAS SUCH AN EMOTIONAL SONG FOR JOHNNY. HE LOST HIS WIFE NOT LONG AFTER MAKING THIS AND HE LOST HIS LIFE NOT LONG AFTER HER. I CRY EVERY TIME I HEAR THIS. WHAT A GREAT REACTION
Ditto
This video always gets me when he closes the piano lid, just like one would close a coffin lid.
Exactly..I was going to post the same sentiment...
It was his mother in the picture. To make this song even more sad 2 months after this song's release, his wife (The woman on the stairs) died. Four months after that Johnny himself died. What a perfect song to be ones final professional recording. Even the way he closes the piano at the end looks like he is saying goodbye. Best requiem since Mozart.
Johnny made the last days of his life into his art. Reminds me of how David Bowie did the same using Blackstar as a farewell love letter to his fans. Both are legends for the music they gave us.
One of David's greatest albums!
R.I.P. to both Johnny Cash and David Bowie
And Leonard Cohen
Spot on with the Bowie comparison.
An incredible song indeed and an emotional goodbye song, for me though, the only comparable song would be Freddie Mercury with Queen’s ‘The Show Must Go On’, such a powerful song from a man who knew he was living his final days.
Your analysis is spot-on. Johnny was interviewed after releasing this and said that he had so many regrets about his younger years (substance abuse, family relationships, spiritual relationship with God). That he was able to make peace with himself prior to his wife passing on and then himself passing on is a blessing for all of us that held him in high esteem. R.I.P., Johnny!
The NIN version really works best when you listen to it in context to the album. The Johnny Cash version just fucking works, full stop. He really made it his own.
I disagree with you, politely, as someone who is a big fan of NIN too. Hurt you can feel a lot of Trent's own pain listening to the song. Particularly with the choices. It feels empty but for the pain, a sense of hopelessness. But I always felt it sort of worked with the story of the CD, because Trent does like story albums, but was always a more personal Trent song.
Probably why trent needed time to warm up to this cover. Not only was it one of his songs which he's infamously attached to but a *him* song.
@@athannyx6815 The thing is Trent wrote Hurt before he had his spiral into dependency. His albums were like a forshaodwing of how he was going to struggle. The songs do both work if you look at the singers and the lives they led. Trent was heading into his troubles, Johnny had live a lot of those same troubles before singing his version.
@@Darkeklaw I noticed that and I always resonated more with Trent's as a younger person like he was then. I do not feel Johnny Cash's version actually displaces Trent's. It just has more gravitas so when you're listening in that moment, it takes over everything.
They both are good.
I always think that the NIN original is a song of self loathing, whereas this one is a song of regret and broken promises. This video is also a masterpiece, weaving in the past at great points. His grand finale. Thanks for this heartfelt reaction Aileen, be well.
The song Hurt is about Trent's heroin addiction he had
The shattered record breaks my heart. Columbia records unceremoniously dropped John after years and millions of dollars. John never forgave them for it. If it wasn't for the brilliance and acumen of Rick Rubin, John would have faded away. Instead he did some of the best work of his life at the end of his life. I grew up in punk. I still am. We could all agree that Johnny Cash and Chuck Berry were two of the OG punks.
I am so thankful for Rubin for giving this legend the opportunity to go out on top.
This was his last effort, not long before he died, what a way to say goodbye to what mattered to him. A true legend!
He's but saying good bye to all of his fans. God bless you Johnny.
This song never plays without tears streaming down my face.
It can mean so much to so many, and was so well written by Trent Reznor that it can allow anyone to feel as if it applies to them.
But Johnny’s performance here, towards the end of his life, gives it such power.
Loved the reaction.❤
When he closed the piano, he would never open it again. As a person in the twilight, it resonates with me more than many, as I watch hero after hero lose their battle with time. I'm the furthest thing away from being a country fan, but I appreciate those who transcend the categories to produce very meaningful and heartfelt music that defies the labels, and Johnny was one of those. Perhaps the most emotional song of all time.
Seeing Johnny Cash's 'Hurt' always brings a tear to my eye. It's like he was grieving for June, knowing she had gone before him and feeling the weight of his own impending horizon. A haunting yet beautiful farewell from a man who had lost so much. This song feels like a heart laid bare. Rest in power, both of you.
The first time I heard this song was when WWE used it to pay tribute to Eddie Guerrero when he passed away. It touched me deeply. Shortly after I listened to it more closely. Clearly the Man in Black knew his time was coming, and yet he remained true to himself. This is indeed one of those songs that can truly reach down to your heart and soul. His spirit lives in his music.
Cash had more than his share of regrets, but he also brought joy to millions with his music. Rest in power big john, you'll never be forgotten.
Amazing reaction as usual Aileen. This song is the definition of money can't buy happiness. The fact that he is saying after all his success, and the Empire of Music he built, you can have it all and it's nothing more than just dirt to him now at his age. That says so much. Ironically enough, I read somewhere that when his daughter saw this, she said "It sounds like you're saying goodbye" to which he replied "I think I am." He died not very long after this was released too. As for Trent Reznor, after he saw this he ended stating "It's not really my song anymore." Crazy how music can touch people and be interpreted in so many ways. Trent wrote it as an angry, depressed young person (as many of us are) at the beginning of his life, able to change and grow adapt, and make the world his and Johnny was able to make it his own as a Swan Song for a man who had the world, was at the true end of his life and career, and was unable to change and grow much futher than he had. Really puts ALLOT into perspective
I have watched many "first time hearing" videos of this song, and I have to say that you are the first person who felt this and got it. So refreshing. Thank you for your sensitivity and heartfelt commentary.
Pure definition of "hauntingly beautiful" in so many ways
Johnny knew he was about to pass. Before he passed when the song was released his daughter asked him "why does it feel like you're telling everyone goodbye?" He simply replied "I am"
Johnny and June both knew their time was near. June passed a few months after this song was recorded, Johnny almost four months after her.
This is one of the greatest songs of all time. No questions asked. It’s about as close to perfect as you can get.
The story is so much more tragic. This was one of his last song videos he ever did. His wife had told him he could keep singing as long as he wanted as she felt he might die if she took his singing away. Sadly she passed away shortly after this video and he lasted less than 6 months before he passed away. Trent gave him permission to do the cover of the song, but did not think he could do it justice. He was actually impressed with what Johnny did with his song. There is a live version sung by Trent (Nine Inch Nails) done back in 2010 that is incredible. This song is in my top 10.
Are you thinking about the version he did with Bowie? Because that was just incredible.
@@datadivanet No. It seems it was from 2007, but one version was posted on RUclips in 2010. Sadly I can not longer find the HD version but the performance is great.
ruclips.net/video/AvJKVKglIRs/видео.html
Johnny Cash is the OG of country music. It's amazing that he resonates with the younger crowd
Because he was real. That's one thing you can always say about Johnny Cash. The man was real and that helped him connect to multiple generations.
After hearing Johnny Cash's cover, Trent Reznor said it's no longer his song, it's a Johnny Cash song now. He was so blown away. If you get a chance, Trent Reznor has an unplugged version of this, just him and a piano, which is also amazing.
Now that I'm old and grey, I know why this song was so important to JC. As we get toward the final days, what haunts us are the regrets we carry for the mistakes we've made. The pain and suffering that our actions sometimes caused and the pain we put in someone else's eyes. This was Cash's small way of saying "I'm sorry".
Probably the best cover of a song ever. Even Trent Reznor couldn’t stop praising it.
after 47 albums- hurt by nine inch nails was the last song he ever did-the man in black knew his time was up- rip LEGEND
Sometimes, an artist covers a song and you just know that no matter how many come after, they will never own it. Johnny Cash owns this song. R.I.P., Johnny.
Johnny Cash was in tremendous pain the last 10 years of his life and never complained about, trying to downplay his pain. His daughter and son confirmed it.
Professor of Rock released a video 5 days ago about Hurt. It's definitely worth the watch
The older I get, the more art touches me deep emotionally...
There is a world of Johnny Cash songs to explore. I love: When the man comes around, Cocaine Blues, Man in Black, Five Feet High And Rising, One Piece At A Time, Jackson, and so many more.
A song was released after his passing, that really shook me cause of the response of the industry, Dozens of singers/songwriters got together to make the music video to pay homage, to the one and only Johnny Cash, in his song God's Gonna Cut you Down. just watching the video and hearing the song, you realize how many souls he touched not just as a singer but as a Human Being, A legend that walked amongst us such an amazing person R.I.P Johnny Cash.
I love how emotional she gets in these videos. Shows how music reaches in and touches your soul when you least expect it to.
This is one the most sad and beautiful songs I’ve ever heard, He is the GOAT. It’s doesn’t matter how much money or fame you have, if you don’t have have your mental and/or physical health you have nothing.
Thank you for your beautiful commentary on what I believe is one of the most powerful musical performances ever. So many listens later, I still get misty eyed.
This is why so many people love Johnny Cash. He’s one of us. He was a believer but he was a rebel. He wanted to make the right choices in life but he often made wrong ones. He loved his wife but often broke her heart. He loved his father but there was so much conflict. He spent time in mansions and in jails. He lived life to the fullest, exploring the ups and downs with passion and recklessness at times. And he gave all this to those who will listen through his music. Rest in peace Johnny. Much love from Georgia.
As a lot have mentioned here, the end when he closes the piano just rips my heart out BUT the worst part for me was the expression on his wife’s face. Tears every time. Peace
This always makes me tear up, sometimes full on cry. He makes me think of my grandpa passing 😞 It’s beautiful and the intention and emotion in his voice is so authentic. I love the NIN version, but they aren’t even comparable. Almost two different songs. 🖤
Every time I listen to the Cash's version, I break down in tears.
Wow. Once again, Aileen, you absolutely “got” the video, right off the bat.
The hurt from Mr Cash is palpable, even though this was not his song, this ended up being “his” song.
Great reaction, as always…
I watched a previous reaction. I'm still crying. Love you, Grandpa. He loved the man in black
Aileen,
Johnny was the real thing. He could talk the talk AND walk the walk!! YOU are correct this is a cover --- It was written by Trent Reznor of 9 inch nails. After hearing Johnny's cover Trent said it is NOT my song anymore. John died about one year after he made this video. John's daughter heard this and told her dad -- "It sounds like you are saying goodbye. John told her, "I am"... AND the way he closes the piano key cover at the end is SO touching!!! Never assume -- At 5:15 that is a picture of Johnny and his wife June. And again at 6:something another shot of June. And in another part of this video there was a picture of Johnny's mother.
I am going to share a story with you. My youngest son and I were at WalMart one day. He walked up to me and showed me a music CD. He asked if I would buy it for him. It was Johnny Cashs greatest hits. I told him I would be honored to buy it for him. Once we got back out to the car. I put the CD in the player. He had never heard "A Boy Named Sue." He laughed so hard, I thought he might crack a rib. At that point he got a lecture -- I told him Johnny was an artist that helped construct Country and Western into the monster business it is today. Plus back in the day he had a TV program. John was the Man in Black!!! Thank goodness we have video and film of him. Plus his records and music CD's.
That same son mentioned above is an United States Marine now. He joined when he was 17 years old. Another proud moment for me.....
Aileen thank YOU for this channel. Please take care of yourself and keep making these videos. please. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!! Until the nest time..... We love and adore you.
I have a hard time not crying when I watch this video. My dad was fighting back tears when I showed it to him on my phone. It's just rough...and great.
It was his goodbye to his children. To me, it was also his way of saying that he wished he could have done things better for his kids, especially looking back on his troubled life.
Coming from a troubled past myself, your reaction felt really heart felt and I appreciate all you do.
Correct me if i’m wrong but this was one of if not the last songs he recorded, and i view as an apology to all the people he wronged, and his goodbye to the world and a way of saying “i’m going to be with June” R.I.P. Johnny u are a legend among legends.
i mean not his way of saying he is going to be with june due to at the time they did not know what was wrong with her
June Carter, a renowned country music singer in her own right was his wife. He was deeply devoted to her. She stuck with him during terrible drug addiction. They had a family. She was his world. She passed before him and his heart was broken, it was all with her he said. I believe when two hearts are so connected when one departs the other has no reason to beat.
Same with Elvis. Most raw and pure statement of incredible talent and charisma was his last concerts. He was sick and absolutely torn apart but still sang in tears like no one can.
One of the realest songs I've ever watched. His wife went through even more than JC even with the Drug addiction his wife stood by his side. Cash will forever and always be a legend but remember, underneath the materialistic things and all the money one might have, we all have feelings and emotions. Great reaction as always 🌹
The man, the myth and the legend! A very touching cover song by Johnny Cash! RIP 😢🙏
Cheers,
Mike L 😎✌🏼🇨🇦
Johnny’s wife died a couple months after they filmed this. He survived her by a couple more months. What gets me the most is that when he played this to his adult daughter, she told him it sounds like he’s saying ‘Goodbye’. His answer was that he was.
Don't apologize for your words. You're reactions always seem to get to the heart of the music and I love them. That's why I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the great insight. And yes, even though Johnny didn't write this song, it fits him and his life so well that he could have
This was his last song, the last time that piano played....
His life was a life of giants, but in the end, even a legend isn't immune from loss. His life is equal parts wonder and tragedy.
I read that when his daughter, Roseanne Cash, herself a great singer-songwriter, heard this, she said, "It sounds like you're saying goodbye." He said, "I am."
And few people knew that Johnny Cash, when in the army, was likely the very first soldier to decrypt the message from the USSR that Stalin died.
Beautiful reaction Aileen. This is arguably the greatest cover of all time. RIP to The Man In Black. 🙏😪
This song never fails to give me goosebumps. He voice is so unapologetically raw, and that just adds to the context of the song, that he is someone who as lived and has regrets. So good.
It was his requiem for his beloved wife June Carter Cash (who was also a famous country singer and literally saved his life from addiction) as she was dying. It didnt take long for him to go to her again.
Just a massively raw and emotional song.
Johnny led a hard life. He battled addiction, lost his brother as a boy, and was abandoned by his own industry. His wife June passed away shortly before this was released, he didn't long survive her. One thing about his career is he reinvented himself after country decided he was done, recording new versions of songs by the likes of Soundgarden, Glen Danzig, and here NIN. You notice I didn't say covers because they aren't covers any more than Disturbed's take on Sound of Silence. They're works of art in their own right. Great reaction
This is just a heartbreaking song and video. Johnny Cash at the very end of his life.
It’s actually a cover of Nine Inch Nails, but Trent Reznor gave it his blessing. Essentially it was written for Cash to perform at the end.
Every time I watch his video, I think of my grandparents. When Johnny Cash sings "Everyone leaves in the end;" I think of their lives as they go when friends and family pass away. I used to think wow they were so lucky to have lived so long, but I never really thought of the pain they had to live through as they lost people along the way who didn't live so long. My grandfather lived to 78, and my grandmother lived to 93. And now as I get older, and have lost friends and family along the way, it gives me a new perspective and appreciation for the strength of character my grandparents had. They had always been such role models for me as a young man, but now as I grow older and wiser, I have even more appreciation for the lives they led.
While filming this, his wife June came downstairs to check on him because he had been working for a number of hours trying to finish this video and she didn't want him to exhaust himself... She was worried about him... She ended up being in the video... This was another great reaction, Aileen... I'm finding myself binge watching your videos...lol... Keep being awesome !!!..
You passed the human test. You cried from watching Hurt by J.C.
I am a large brutish 50 year old man that lives on a farm and I lose it every time. The part where his wife comes down the stairs is a real reaction from her hearing him play the song. I can't hold it together from that point on.
Johnny Cash died not too long after recording and filming this. It was basically his goodbye.
He heard the NIN original and was moved by the lyrics and they hit home with the regrets he felt late in his life.
Not really. He was convinced by his producer, Rick rubín, to record it.
@Petrovic I've read that he was moved by the lyrics, which aligned with his regret, but wasn't sure he wanted to record someone else's song. Rubin convinced him to record it.
@Petrovic If you can watch this video and say it wasn't a goodbye, you really need to take a look at how you look at life. Even if Rick Rubin did suggest it in the end Cash preformed it and if nothing else had the final say so in the production of the video. He knew his time was short and what better way to put a mark on his legacy.
I love this version. It's such a cool 180 from NIN's original.
I consider this cover and Disturbed's take on The Sound of Silence to be a cool genre-swapping duo that juxtapositions each other perfectly. Cash takes a rock song and elevates it in a completely different genre, which Disturbed took a classic song from a whole other genre and elevated it as a rock ballad. I don't know if the two covers came out at the same time but I remember discovering them both at the same time.
As good as Johnny Cash career is, all these American recordings with Rubin are on the next level.
This song always makes me think of those that I love and have gone away.
Miss you. Love you.
Even if this song is a cover he make it is song! For him this is a "testament" is last word and when he close the piano for him and us , we know it is the end... Thanks for everything Mister Cash!