Jumping on the CASH band wagon

by Sean McGahey

We’ve got a new movie, new compilation CDs, documentaries, and country music revivals and a new generation of youngsters with attitude (although that’s nothing new) fashionably looking likes something between Reservoir Dogs Michael Madson and Elvis. So why is music a seasonal fashion accessory? We’ve had Jim Morrison, Karen Carpenter & Elvis revivals I guess you’ve all bought the DVDs, T-shirts, film soundtracks and a year later sold them on E-Bay. What I’m getting at is - IT’S ALL A MARKETING GIMMICK! – Would the same new wave of Cash fans go on to buy a Flying Burrito Brothers, Eagles, Steve Earle or a the classic Elite Hotel by Emmylou Harris Album? Nope I don’t think so; they’ll go back to being told what’s cool by movie producers and magazines.

I guess you’re thinking I’m being a grumpy old bastard who should be grateful that the Johnny Cash torch is being passed down the line to a new generation of listeners, well you’re probably right! I’m a miserable old so and so! I’d personally recommend a new “Cash fan” the 3 CD Sun Records box set as I believe it’s Johnny at his best! Then go and buy any early Bob Dylan album you’ll appreciate how raw and exciting these guys were.

What I’m asking you is should we remember Cash for his outlaw bad boy of music days or as a musician, writer/poet and a man who after falling upon hard times found and sang about God? On the other hand does it all really matter? If you only ever buy one album enjoy it for what it is.

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~ This piece was posted on Saturday, February 18th, 2006 and was filed under Blog, Writing, Featured. You can make comments on it below. ~