Johnny Cash’s covers have a legacy of redefining the original song. He does this with The Sound of Silence, where his world-weary voice gives new meaning to Simon and Garfunkel’s original 1964 track, now often referred to as The Ghost of Johnny Cash.
Here, the song is transformed into a gravelly and weighted lament on the world around Cash, where there are ‘people talking without speaking, people hearing without listening,’ lyrics that acquire an almost prophetic resonance with the song’s reflective mood.
The sound of Silence -The Ghost of Johnny Cash
This song is among Cash’s Rick Rubin produced American Recordings series, which saw Cash breathing new life into other songs as well, such as Hurt and Personal Jesus. The Sound of Silence is similarly not a Cash-original, but the cover makes it seem like the song was written for his voice.
If this cover piques your interest, you’re in for quite the artistic reputation! Listen to Cash’s cover of Hurt by Nine Inch Nails where Trent Reznor’s lyrics acquire new meaning, transforming the classic into a deeply melancholic farewell song.
Johnny Cash – Hurt
The depth of emotion in this rendition is undeniable, serving as a reminder that music can transcend genre, but so long as there’s a voice with a vision at the core, the track itself will succeed!
Stay connected with Johnny Cash’s legendary music by following official streaming platforms and archives!