The moment Johnny Cash walked onto the Late Night set in 1985, the air changed. That deep, rumbling voice. Those piercing eyes. David Letterman; usually the king of cool; suddenly looked like a kid meeting his hero. This wasn’t just an interview; it was a masterclass in presence from the one artist who never needed flashy gimmicks to command a room.
Cash, relaxed in a black suit, swapped stories about his groundbreaking 1969 TV show like it was just another day at the office; except his “office” hosted Dylan’s first live TV performance and Joni Mitchell’s debut of Both Sides Now. When Letterman asked about New York City, Cash casually mentioned his apartment (because of course he had one), then lit up describing jam sessions at his Nashville home where Lay Lady Lay and A Boy Named Sue were first played. The man wasn’t just a legend; he was music history’s secret keeper.
Johnny Cash on Letterman (February 7, 1985)
You could hear the reverence in the crowd’s applause. This was peak Cash; years past his Folsom Prison fame but still radiating that quiet, unstoppable cool. Fans today still comment on the video: “Letterman’s usually the smartest guy in the room, but here he’s just happy to be along for the ride.”
The conversation turned to The Johnny Cash Show, where he broke every rule in 1970 by booking Dylan, The Who, and Louis Armstrong alongside country stars. “Music is for everybody,” Cash shrugged, as if blending genres wasn’t revolutionary. Letterman, holding a Country Music Magazine, joked about Cash’s habit of researching guests; proof that even icons stay curious.
Bob Dylan with Johnny Cash – Girl from the North Country (Official Audio) ft. Johnny Cash
Watching this today feels like uncovering a time capsule. Cash’s ease; whether discussing NYC movie theaters or Shel Silverstein’s songwriting; shows why he transcended labels. In a world of flashy pop stars, he reminds us that authenticity is the ultimate currency.
The interview’s real gem? Cash’s laugh; warm, unguarded and totally at odds with his “Man in Black” image. When Letterman asked about snacks at his legendary Nashville jam sessions, Cash deadpanned: “I tell you what…” before cutting to commercial. Even in 10-second moments, he was unforgettable.