11 Underrated Johnny Cash Songs: Rare Classics

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and ardent fan of all things melodic.

Today, I’ve got something special for you – a journey through the lesser-known gems of the legendary Johnny Cash. Why am I doing this?

Well, while everyone recognizes “Ring of Fire” or “Walk the Line,” Johnny Cash’s discography is like a treasure trove filled with underrated masterpieces that deserve more spotlight. I’ve dug deep into his albums to handpick 11 tracks that are nothing short of musical gold, yet often overlooked.

These songs showcase the raw, emotive power of Cash’s voice and storytelling prowess that goes beyond his mainstream hits. So, sit back, turn up the volume, and let’s explore the hidden depths of Johnny Cash’s music together!

Here are the underrated Johnny Cash songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Johnny Cash Songs

Underrated Johnny Cash songs in a list format:

1. Drive On

From the album “American Recordings” (1994, American Recordings label), “Drive On” is a quintessential Johnny Cash song that resonates with resilience and moving forward despite life’s hardships. Penned by Cash himself, this track features his deep, gravelly voice that adds a layer of authenticity to the lyrics. I chose this song for its raw simplicity and the way it embodies Cash’s later style – stripped back, yet profoundly powerful. It’s a reminder of his ability to connect with the listeners’ struggles, making it a standout in an album full of introspection.

2. Thirteen

“Thirteen,” from the album “American Recordings” (1994, American Recordings label), was written by Glenn Danzig specifically for Cash. This song stands out with its dark, ominous lyrics, reflecting on ill fate and misfortune. Cash’s deep, somber voice perfectly captures the haunting mood of the track. It’s a testament to his versatility and ability to convey emotion, regardless of the song’s theme. I included “Thirteen” for its unique blend of gothic tones with Cash’s classic country style, creating an unforgettable musical experience.

3. I Hung My Head

Featured on the album “American IV: The Man Comes Around” (2002, American Recordings label), “I Hung My Head” is a cover of a Sting song. Johnny Cash’s version transforms the track into a poignant narrative of guilt and remorse. His voice, weathered with age and experience, adds a depth of emotion that’s palpable. The reason for its inclusion is Cash’s ability to take a song from a different genre and make it entirely his own, highlighting his interpretative prowess.

4. The Man Comes Around

“The Man Comes Around,” the title track of the album “American IV: The Man Comes Around” (2002, American Recordings label), showcases Cash’s reflective side. Written by Cash, it delves into biblical prophecies and the end of times. Its introspective lyrics, combined with a minimalistic acoustic arrangement, make it a powerful piece. I chose it for its lyrical depth and the way it showcases Cash’s thoughts on mortality and legacy, themes that became more prevalent in his later works.

5. The Beast In Me

From “American Recordings” (1994, American Recordings label), “The Beast In Me” is a song written by Nick Lowe, Cash’s former son-in-law. This introspective track delves into the struggles of inner demons and personal battles. Cash’s rendition is both vulnerable and powerful, a true reflection of his personal struggles. This song made my list for its honesty and the raw, emotional delivery that Cash is renowned for.

6. Redemption

“Redemption” is a deep cut from the album “American Recordings” (1994, American Recordings label). This song, written by Cash, is a poignant tale of seeking forgiveness and salvation. Its sparse instrumentation highlights Cash’s voice, delivering each word with a weight that only he could. I included “Redemption” for its spiritual depth and the stark, bare-bones arrangement that allows Cash’s storytelling to shine through.

7. Solitary Man

Johnny Cash’s cover of “Solitary Man” by Neil Diamond is a highlight of the album “American III: Solitary Man” (2000, American Recordings label). Cash transforms the song into a reflective, somber ballad. His voice, tinged with the weariness of age, brings a new level of depth to the lyrics. This track is on the list for its emotional resonance and Cash’s ability to reinterpret a song with his unique, poignant touch.

8. One

A cover of U2’s

“One,” featured on “American III: Solitary Man” (2000, American Recordings label), is a stellar example of Johnny Cash transforming a modern rock song into a soul-stirring country ballad. His weathered voice, laden with the wisdom of years, gives a new, heart-wrenching perspective to the lyrics about unity and reconciliation. I picked this song for its demonstration of Cash’s ability to bridge genres and generations, breathing new life into an already classic track.

9. God’s Gonna Cut You Down

From the album “American V: A Hundred Highways” (2006, American Recordings label), “God’s Gonna Cut You Down” is a traditional folk song that Cash turns into a chilling, rhythmic masterpiece. His delivery is both ominous and compelling, backed by a simple, yet haunting arrangement. This song was chosen for its stark contrast to Cash’s other work, showcasing his ability to infuse traditional gospel with a gritty, almost menacing tone.

10. Give My Love to Rose

Originally released in 1960 but reimagined on “American IV: The Man Comes Around” (2002, American Recordings label), “Give My Love to Rose” is a song written by Cash himself. It tells a heart-wrenching story of a dying man’s message to his family. Cash’s aged voice adds a layer of poignancy to this already somber narrative. I included it for its storytelling prowess and the emotional weight Cash brings to his own songwriting.

11. She Used to Love Me a Lot

From “Out Among the Stars” (2014, Columbia Records), a posthumous release of previously unreleased recordings from the 1980s, “She Used to Love Me a Lot” is a haunting reflection on lost love. Cash’s delivery is filled with a sense of longing and regret. This song makes the list for its exploration of personal heartache and the depth of emotion that Cash could convey, even in his earlier years.

Fun Facts: Underrated Johnny Cash Songs

1. Drive On

• Fun Fact: “Drive On” was part of Johnny Cash’s comeback album “American Recordings,” which he recorded with legendary producer Rick Rubin. This collaboration marked a significant shift in Cash’s career, reviving his popularity and introducing his music to a younger generation.

2. Thirteen

• Fun Fact: Glenn Danzig, known for his work with the Misfits and Danzig, was initially surprised when asked to write a song for Johnny Cash. The result, “Thirteen,” perfectly captured Cash’s darker, more introspective late style, blending Danzig’s gothic sensibilities with Cash’s country roots.

3. I Hung My Head

• Fun Fact: Sting, the original writer of “I Hung My Head,” praised Johnny Cash’s version, acknowledging how Cash transformed the song into something entirely different and deeper, a testament to Cash’s ability to reinterpret songs with profound emotional impact.

4. The Man Comes Around

• Fun Fact: “The Man Comes Around” includes numerous biblical references, inspired by a dream Johnny Cash had about Queen Elizabeth II. In the dream, the Queen compared Cash to a “thorn tree in a whirlwind,” leading him to explore themes of judgment and redemption.

5. The Beast In Me

• Fun Fact: “The Beast In Me” was written by Nick Lowe, who was once married to Johnny Cash’s stepdaughter, Carlene Carter. This song is a personal reflection, likely influenced by Lowe’s relationship with the Cash family and his own personal struggles.

6. Redemption

• Fun Fact: “Redemption” is a prime example of Cash’s late-career focus on themes of morality, spirituality, and redemption. This song, with its simple yet profound lyrics, showcases Cash’s enduring talent as a songwriter and his ability to convey deep emotions.

7. Solitary Man

• Fun Fact: Neil Diamond, the original writer of “Solitary Man,” expressed great admiration for Johnny Cash’s cover. Cash’s version strips the song down to its emotional core, transforming it into a poignant ballad that reflects his life experiences.

8. One

• Fun Fact: Bono, the lead singer of U2, was reportedly moved by Johnny Cash’s version of “One.” Cash’s rendition turns the song into a contemplative piece, emphasizing the themes of unity and reconciliation in a deeply personal way.

9. God’s Gonna Cut You Down

• Fun Fact: “God’s Gonna Cut You Down,” a traditional folk song, gained renewed popularity after Cash’s version was used in various movies, TV shows, and video games. The song’s stark and rhythmic rendition by Cash has made it an enduring favorite in popular culture.

10. Give My Love to Rose

• Fun Fact: “Give My Love to Rose” was recorded while Cash was at the peak of his fame, but the re-recorded version for “American IV” reflects his mature perspective. This song is a fine example of Cash revisiting his earlier work with a new depth of feeling.

11. She Used to Love Me a Lot

• Fun Fact: “She Used to Love Me a Lot” was part of the lost 1980s sessions rediscovered and released posthumously. These sessions revealed Cash’s experimentation with new sounds and styles, showcasing a different side of his musical genius.

And there you have it, folks – a dive into the hidden treasures of Johnny Cash’s illustrious career. These songs not only showcase his immense talent but also his ability to connect with the soul of the listener. Remember, there’s always more to discover in the world of music. Keep exploring!

Thanks for reading.

TBone