About the song
Introducing the hauntingly beautiful track “Hurt” by the legendary “Man in Black,” Johnny Cash. Originally written and performed by Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails, “Hurt” was later covered by Cash for his album “American IV: The Man Comes Around,” released in 2002. This rendition, marked by Cash’s gravelly voice and raw emotion, breathed new life into the song, earning widespread acclaim and cementing its place as one of his most iconic recordings.
“Hurt” resonates deeply with listeners due to its introspective lyrics and haunting melody, delving into themes of regret, pain, and redemption. Cash’s poignant interpretation of the song, coupled with the stark simplicity of its arrangement, creates a profoundly moving listening experience that transcends genre boundaries.
Upon its release, “Hurt” received widespread critical praise and commercial success. It peaked at number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Cash’s last entry on the chart during his lifetime. The accompanying music video, directed by Mark Romanek, further added to the song’s impact, showcasing intimate footage of Cash’s life and career interspersed with haunting imagery.
Despite its somber tone, “Hurt” stands as a testament to Cash’s enduring legacy as a musical pioneer and cultural icon. His soul-stirring rendition of the song continues to resonate with audiences around the world, serving as a poignant reminder of the depth of human experience and the power of music to connect us all.
So, take a moment to immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of Johnny Cash’s “Hurt,” and let his timeless voice guide you through a journey of reflection and introspection.
Video
Lyrics
I hurt myself today
To see if I still feel
I focus on the pain
The only thing that’s real
The needle tears a hole
The old familiar sting
Try to kill it all away
But I remember everything
What have I become?
My sweetest friend
Everyone I know goes away
In the end
And you could have it all
My empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt
I wear this crown of thorns
Upon my liar’s chair
Full of broken thoughts
I cannot repair
Beneath the stains of time
The feelings disappear
You are someone else
I’m still right here
What have I become?
My sweetest friend
Everyone I know goes away
In the end
And you could have it all
My empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt
If I could start again
A million miles away
I would keep myself
I would find a way