Johnny Cash
Amanda B. Boone
McKendree University

Johnny Cash

Johnny Cash was born in Arkansas and the 4th of 7 children. He was originally named J R Cash because his parents did not know what to name him however, when he entered the Air Force they would not allow him to use initials. Religion and music were very much a part of Johnny’s upbringing. His mother was a devout Pentecostal who often sang hymns to Johnny. Knowing her sons love of music, she eventually scrapped up the money for him to have singing lessons, but after three lessons the teacher instructed Johnny not to deviate from his natural voice. (The Biography Channel)

In the Air Force is when he began to play music again. Johnny Cash originally intended to sing gospel music when trying for a music contract and was told they were no longer looking to sign gospel singers. Although he did not give up gospel music all together Hillbilly rock, outlaw, gospel, and country are all the music genres that Johnny contributed to. He is best known for his bass baritone voice that is like no other, not to mention known as the man in black. Johnny only wore black to every show because his first gig; he wore a black t-shirt and jeans and thought it to bring him luck. (The Biography Channel)

After leaving the Air Force, Johnny married Vivian Liberto and had four daughters. Alcohol and drugs, not to mention a hectic touring schedule eventually led to Vivian filing for divorce. During one of his tours, he toured with the Carter family where he met June Carter. After his divorce from Vivian, he spiraled out of control and June Carter helped him clean up his life and that is when Johnny became a devout Christian. (The Biography Channel) A year after his divorce with Vivian, he and June Carter were married, with a son being born several years later. June and Johnny’s marriage deemed them the title the