1. "I Walk the Line" (1956): This song is a declaration of love and faithfulness to his wife, Vivian Liberto Cash. It became one of Cash's signature songs and a country music standard.
2. "Folsom Prison Blues" (1955): Written during Cash's time in prison, this song tells the story of a prisoner's longing for freedom. "Folsom Prison Blues" is considered a classic of the country music genre.
3. "Ring of Fire" (1963): This song, written by June Carter Cash, expresses the powerful love and desire between Johnny and June. "Ring of Fire" became one of Cash's most popular and well-known songs.
4. "Man in Black" (1971): In this song, Cash explains his choice of wearing black clothing as a symbol of protest and support for the downtrodden and marginalized in society.
5. "Hurt" (2002): A cover of the Nine Inch Nails song, Cash's version of "Hurt" is a deeply emotional and introspective rendition that showcases his storytelling abilities and conveys a sense of pain and vulnerability.
6. "Get Rhythm" (1956): This upbeat and energetic song is known for its catchy rhythm and simple yet effective lyrics, showcasing Cash's early country and rockabilly influences.
7. "One Piece at a Time" (1976): This novelty song tells a humorous and lighthearted story of a man assembling a car by stealing parts one piece at a time. It became a popular and often requested tune at Cash's concerts.
These songs represent a small selection from Johnny Cash's extensive and influential music career. His impact on country music and American culture is still felt today, with his music continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.