The Man Was Weak, But Played Legendary Songs One Last Time

“Hello, I’m Johnny Cash,” is how the legendary Johnny Cash would kick off his performances, often starting with his classic “Folsom Prison Blues” from 1955. His final public appearance followed this tradition. Before diving into the footage of that last show, let’s set the stage. On July 5, 2003, Cash was struggling with severe health issues. By then, he was noticeably weakened, reliant on a wheelchair, battling facial paralysis, and deep in grief.

In 1997, Cash was diagnosed with Shy–Drager syndrome, a rare disorder later reclassified as autonomic neuropathy related to diabetes. Despite his declining health and lungs compromised by pneumonia, Cash continued to work with producer Rick Rubin, producing acclaimed albums under Rubin’s American Recordings label. Adding to his burden, Cash lost his beloved wife, June Carter Cash, on May 15, 2003, at age 73, casting a shadow over his final concert, which took place just two months later.

Johnny Cash’s last performance was at the Carter Family Fold in Hiltons, Virginia, near Clinch Mountain. This venue held special significance for Cash as a tribute to his late wife, June Carter Cash, daughter of Maybelle Carter of The Carter Family, pioneers of country music alongside A.P. and Sara Carter. June had been part of this musical legacy since she was ten.

After the original Carter Family ceased recording in 1943, Maybelle and her daughters continued as The Carter Sisters & Mother Maybelle, joining The Grand Ole Opry in Nashville in 1950. It was here that June Carter and Johnny Cash first met, both already married to others. The Carter Family Fold, part museum and part concert hall, stands on the Carter family’s original estate.

Let’s reminisce about Johnny and June at their peak:

“Jackson,” written by Billy Edd Wheeler and Jerry Leiber in 1963, was brought to life by Johnny Cash and June Carter in February 1967, leading to their marriage on March 1, 1968. The song reached No. 2 on the US Country charts and won them a Grammy in 1968 for Best Country & Western Performance Duet, Trio, or Group.

Johnny Cash’s final performance at the Carter Family Fold, despite suffering from laryngitis, remains a testament to his indomitable spirit, vast musical contributions, and enduring love for June Carter Cash. His performance, though hampered by illness, showcased his unwavering commitment and legacy.

A notable moment in the opening scenes features John Carter Cash, the son of Johnny and June, assisting his father. John Carter Cash is a musician and producer in his own right. Johnny Cash passed away on September 12, 2003, just four months after June. Let’s pay tribute with one more song from the man in black: