About the song
“Hurt” is a song that has touched the hearts of many, famously covered by the legendary Johnny Cash. Originally written by Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails, the song was part of their 1994 album “The Downward Spiral.” Johnny Cash’s rendition, however, is the one that has profoundly resonated with listeners across generations.
Johnny Cash, often referred to as “The Man in Black,” was an iconic figure in the world of country music. Known for his deep, calming voice and his ability to convey raw emotion, Cash recorded “Hurt” for his 2002 album “American IV: The Man Comes Around.” This album was part of a series of collaborations with producer Rick Rubin, which revitalized Cash’s career in the later stages of his life.
Cash’s version of “Hurt” is not just a cover; it’s a reinterpretation that many argue surpasses the original. The song’s themes of regret, pain, and introspection fit seamlessly with Cash’s own life experiences, adding a layer of authenticity and poignancy. The music video, directed by Mark Romanek, features stark imagery and scenes from Cash’s life, making it a powerful visual accompaniment to the song.
Upon its release, Cash’s “Hurt” was met with critical acclaim. It won a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video and has since been considered one of the greatest covers of all time. The song charted on various Billboard charts, including reaching number 33 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart.
Johnny Cash’s interpretation of “Hurt” stands as a testament to his enduring legacy and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. It remains a hauntingly beautiful piece that continues to move listeners, a fitting tribute to the profound talent and life of Johnny Cash.
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