Introduction:
The year 2000 marked a reinvention for Johnny Cash, the legendary “Man in Black.” Cash, a towering figure in American country music for decades, embarked on a late-career collaboration with producer Rick Rubin, stripping down his sound and delving into a repertoire of unexpected covers. This period, often referred to as his “American Recordings” era, yielded a series of critically acclaimed albums that showcased Cash’s enduring voice and ability to connect with a new generation.
One of the most powerful entries in this chapter is Johnny Cash’s rendition of U2’s “One.” Originally released in 1991 on U2’s Achtung Baby album, “One” was a rock anthem brimming with spiritual yearning and a questioning of faith. The song resonated deeply with audiences, becoming one of the band’s most recognizable and beloved hits.
When Cash took on “One” for his 2000 album “American III: Solitary Man,” the transformation was remarkable. Gone were the driving drums and soaring guitars of the original. Cash’s version is stark and intimate, featuring only his deep baritone voice and a simple acoustic guitar accompaniment. Gone too is the youthful urgency of the original, replaced by Cash’s trademark gravelly and introspective delivery.
This stripped-down approach allows the emotional core of “One” to shine through. Lines like “I can’t live with you, but I can’t live without you” and “One of us has to change, or we have to fall apart” take on a new weight, reflecting on the complexities of love and loss with a weary wisdom gained through a lifetime of experiences. Cash’s voice, weathered by time and struggle, imbues the song with a profound sense of humanity and vulnerability.
“One” by Johnny Cash became a cornerstone of his American Recordings era. The song was a critical and commercial success, reaching number 41 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and further cementing Cash’s status as an icon who transcended genre. It earned Cash a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and became a favorite among fans both old and new.
More importantly, Cash’s version of “One” stands as a testament to the power of reinterpretation. By stripping away the original’s rock bombast, Cash revealed the raw emotions at the song’s core, creating a version that resonated deeply with a different generation and audience. It is a powerful reminder of Cash’s enduring artistry and his ability to find new meaning in even the most familiar songs.