Johnny Cash – Man in Black

About the song

“Man in Black” is a song written and recorded by Johnny Cash. It was released in 1971 as the title track of his album of the same name. The song is a protest song, in which Cash sings about the poor, the beaten down, and the prisoners. He wears black in solidarity with them, and as a symbol of his own commitment to social justice.

The song is a powerful and moving statement about the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even when it is not popular. It is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to help those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

Cash’s deep, resonant voice and his sincere delivery make the song even more powerful. He sings with conviction, and it is clear that he believes in every word he sings. The song’s simple, yet powerful message has resonated with listeners for decades, and it remains one of Cash’s most popular songs.

“Man in Black” is a classic country song, but it is also a song that transcends genre. It is a song about hope, about justice, and about the power of one person to make a difference. It is a song that is as relevant today as it was when it was first released.

Some additional information about the song:

  • The song was inspired by Cash’s visit to San Quentin State Prison in 1968. He was moved by the experience, and he wrote the song as a way to express his solidarity with the prisoners.
  • The song’s lyrics are simple, but they are powerful. Cash sings about the poor, the beaten down, and the prisoners, and he wears black in solidarity with them.
  • The song’s message is one of hope and justice. Cash sings about the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even when it is not popular.
  • “Man in Black” is a classic country song, but it is also a song that transcends genre. It is a song about hope, about justice, and about the power of one person to make a difference.

Video

Lyrics

Well, you wonder why I always dress in blackWhy you never see bright colors on my backAnd why does my appearance seem to have a somber toneWell, there’s a reason for the things that I have on
I wear the black for the poor and the beaten downLivin’ in the hopeless, hungry side of townI wear it for the prisoner who is long paid for his crimeBut is there because he’s a victim of the times
I wear the black for those who’ve never readOr listened to the words that Jesus saidAbout the road to happiness through love and charityWhy, you’d think He’s talking straight to you and me
Well, we’re doin’ mighty fine, I do supposeIn our streak of lightnin’ cars and fancy clothesBut just so we’re reminded of the ones who are held backUp front there ought to be a man in black
I wear it for the sick and lonely oldFor the reckless ones whose bad trip left them coldI wear the black in mournin’ for the lives that could have beenEach week we lose a hundred fine young men
And I wear it for the thousands who have diedBelievin’ that the Lord was on their sideI wear it for another hundred-thousand who have diedBelievin’ that we all were on their side
Well, there’s things that never will be right, I knowAnd things need changin’ everywhere you goBut ’til we start to make a move to make a few things rightYou’ll never see me wear a suit of white
Ah, I’d love to wear a rainbow every dayAnd tell the world that everything’s okayBut I’ll try to carry off a little darkness on my back‘Til things are brighter, I’m the man in black