We have a collection of 6 arrangements for Nine Inch Nails - Hurt
How did Johnny Cash's haunting cover transform the perception of this industrial rock classic? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Johnny Cash: The Man in Black
"Hurt" is a song written by Trent Reznor, the frontman of the industrial rock band Nine Inch Nails. The song gained significant attention and popularity when it was covered by Johnny Cash in 2002. Here are some interesting facts about Johnny Cash's rendition of "Hurt":
Late-Career Revival: Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt" is considered one of the most iconic and moving moments of his late-career resurgence. It introduced him to a new generation of listeners and reestablished him as a legendary figure in music.
Grammy Award: Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt" won a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video in 2003. The haunting music video accompanying the song played a significant role in its success.
Personal Connection: The lyrics of "Hurt" took on new meaning when sung by Johnny Cash, as they reflected his own experiences and struggles, particularly as he faced health issues and mortality. This added a layer of emotional depth to the song that resonated deeply with audiences.
Final Studio Album: Cash's cover of "Hurt" appeared on his album "American IV: The Man Comes Around," released in 2002. This was his fourth album in the "American Recordings" series produced by Rick Rubin.
Emotional Music Video: The music video for Johnny Cash's version of "Hurt" is often regarded as one of the most emotional and impactful music videos ever created. It features a compilation of footage from Cash's life, including scenes of his younger days, his family, his performances, and moments of introspection. The video effectively captures the passage of time and the bittersweet reflections on a long and eventful life.
Trent Reznor's Reaction: Trent Reznor, the original songwriter and performer of "Hurt" with Nine Inch Nails, was deeply moved by Johnny Cash's cover of the song. He expressed admiration for Cash's interpretation and later remarked that the song no longer felt like his own after hearing Cash's version.
Chart Performance: Cash's version of "Hurt" was a commercial success, reaching high positions on various music charts. It became one of his most popular songs, even though it was a cover of a track originally associated with a different genre.
Lasting Legacy: Johnny Cash's cover of "Hurt" has left a lasting legacy in the music world. It is often cited as one of the greatest cover songs ever recorded and is frequently featured on lists of the best songs of all time.
Nostalgic Feel: The arrangement and Cash's weathered voice lend a sense of nostalgia and vulnerability to the song. This quality, combined with the poignant lyrics, contributed to its emotional impact on listeners.
Cultural Impact: Cash's cover of "Hurt" transcended musical boundaries and became a cultural touchstone, influencing discussions about aging, mortality, and the passage of time. It remains a poignant and powerful piece of art that continues to resonate with people around the world.