Worn out and in pain, he played iconic melodies one last time

Hello, I’m Johnny Cash,” were the iconic opening words of the legendary Johnny Cash before each of his performances, and his final public appearance was no exception. Reflecting on the footage of that ultimate show, it is crucial to grasp the backdrop. On July 5, 2003, despite battling severe health issues, Cash graced the stage for one last time. At that point, he was maneuvering through life in a wheelchair, grappling with facial paralysis, and mourning deeply. In 1997, he had received a diagnosis of Shy–Drager syndrome, later linked to autonomic neuropathy associated with diabetes. Despite his failing health and his lungs compromised by pneumonia, Cash persisted in collaborating with producer Rick Rubin, producing acclaimed albums under Rubin’s American Recordings label. The loss of his beloved wife, June Carter Cash, on May 15, 2003, just two months prior to his final concert, weighed heavily on him emotionally.

Johnny Cash’s final performance unfolded at the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, near Clinch Mountain. This venue held profound significance for Cash as a tribute to his wife June Carter Cash’s lineage. June, being the offspring of Maybelle Carter, a member of The Carter Family, who were trailblazers in the realm of country music, had been immersed in this musical lineage since her early years.

The Carter Family Fold represents a part museum and part concert hall, situated on the original estate of the Carter family. Post the cessation of the original Carter Family’s recordings in 1943, Maybelle and her daughters carried on as The Carter Sisters & Mother Maybelle and became members of The Grand Ole Opry in 1950, where June met Johnny Cash.

At their peak, Johnny and June Cash delivered an unforgettable rendition of “Jackson,” penned by Billy Edd Wheeler and Jerry Leiber in 1963. Their performance in 1967 led to their union in marriage on March 1, 1968. The song soared to No. 2 on the US Country charts and secured them a Grammy in 1968 for Best Country & Western Performance Duet, Trio, or Group.

Although he battled with laryngitis during his final performance at the Carter Family Fold, Johnny Cash’s unwavering spirit, remarkable musical legacy, and enduring love for June Carter Cash were palpable. Despite his ailment, his performance underscored his steadfast dedication and enduring influence.

A poignant moment in the initial scenes exhibits John Carter Cash, the son of Johnny and June, providing assistance to his father. John Carter Cash, a musician and producer himself, stood by his father during his last public appearance. Johnny Cash passed away on September 12, 2003, merely four months after the demise of June. Let’s pay tribute to his legacy with one more song from the Man in Black.