When failing health felled Johnny Cash in the late 1990’s, many feared he was down for the count. But he was back on the charts in 2002 with a new album and an award winning video. The final comeback was fitting for a legendary artist whose dozens of hit records, including songs like “I Walk the Line” and “Folsom Prison Blues,” often celebrated second chances, especially for the down-and-out.
Cash, who died today at age 71, was perhaps the most widely recognized voice in country music, recording more than 1500 songs. He was the youngest member ever inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, but he also made his mark in rock and has been cited as an influence by everyone from Bob Dylan to the Beastie Boys.
Guests:
Michael Streissguth, editor of The Johnny Cash Reader
Merle Kilgore, co-author with June Carter Cash of hit “Ring of Fire” and long time friend of Johnny Cash.