How Johnny Cash spoke to the heart of America

[Jefferson23]

12/16/2013
SUMMARY
Longtime music writer Robert Hilburn was inspired to write his new book, "Johnny Cash: The Life," after finding that other biographies didn't tell the full story. Jeffrey Brown talks to Hilburn about the legendary musician's authenticity and gift for storytelling, as well as the well-known personal battles of the "Man in Black."

Transcript

GWEN IFILL: Finally tonight: the Man in Black. It's been 10 years since the legendary singer songwriter died at age 71.

Last week, his estate announced a new album would be released in March. The never-before-heard songs were recorded in 1986. The audiotapes of the original recording sessions recently were discovered in the family archives.


We get a look now at Johnny Cash the man.

Jeffrey Brown has our book conversation.

JEFFREY BROWN: From the Sun recording studios in Memphis to California's Folsom Prison, to the famous last video he recorded before he died, Johnny Cash crossed musical boundaries and influenced and moved several generations of singers, songwriters and fans, even while he struggled with his own addictions and pains.

All of this can be found in "Johnny Cash: The Life," a new biography by Robert Hilburn, who served as chief music critic for The Los Angeles Times for more than 30 years.

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/bb/entertainment/july-dec13/johnnycash_12-16.html

[Uncle Joe]

1. Kicked and recommended.

Thanks for the thread, Jefferson.

[lumberjack_jeff]

2. Johnny Cash was the real deal.

Anyone with the balls to do a concert at a prison is okay in my book.

[Jefferson23]

3. Authentic, in every way. n/t

[Cracklin Charlie]

4. I grew up in a place...

Where houses I visited had pictures of Johnny Cash on the wall of the front room. Just like other houses had pictures of Jesus.

Johnny Cash - American Hero.

[rustydog]

5. I had the opportunity to meet Johnny Cash AGES ago after a concert

I worked security and escorted him to where he needed to go in our facility. When I walked up to this big man to conduct the escort, he smiled, shook my hand and said: "Hello, I'm Johnny Cash."

LOVE IT! we made small talk during the escort. He seemed so down to earth for someone who was such a mega star.

I remember that night so clearly 30 years later

[Jefferson23]

6. You lucky dog, you. n/t

[CrispyQ]

7. Last Saturday I was driving home from Costco, about a five mile drive.

I saw four "God Bless Johnny Cash" bumper stickers.

[Jefferson23]

8. Ya know, he was beloved by so many..but wow. I am looking forward to the release

of the songs..should be great.