About The Song
“Man in Black” is a poignant song written and performed by the iconic country music artist Johnny Cash. Released in 1971, the song serves as both a personal statement and a social commentary on various issues plaguing society at the time.
In “Man in Black,” Cash explains the reasons behind his choice of attire – wearing black from head to toe. He states that while many people wear flashy colors to express themselves, he chooses black as a symbol of solidarity with the oppressed, the poor, and the marginalized. Cash uses his platform as a musician to shed light on issues such as poverty, injustice, and the Vietnam War.
The song’s lyrics reflect Cash’s deep empathy for those who suffer and his desire to speak out against injustice. He sings about visiting prisons, watching young men die in wars, and witnessing the struggles of the poor and forgotten. Through his music, Cash becomes a voice for the voiceless, advocating for compassion, empathy, and social change.
“Man in Black” became one of Johnny Cash’s signature songs, resonating with audiences around the world. Its powerful message and heartfelt delivery earned it critical acclaim and cemented Cash’s reputation as a legendary figure in country music and a voice for social justice.
Throughout his career, Cash continued to use his music as a platform to address important issues and advocate for positive change. “Man in Black” remains a timeless anthem of empathy, compassion, and solidarity with the downtrodden, inspiring listeners to stand up for what they believe in and make a difference in the world.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Well, you wonder why I always dress in black
Why you never see bright colors on my back
And why does my appearance seem to have a somber tone
Well, there’s a reason for the things that I have on
I wear the black for the poor and the beaten down
Livin’ in the hopeless, hungry side of town
I wear it for the prisoner who is long paid for his crime
But is there because he’s a victim of the times
I wear the black for those who’ve never read
Or listened to the words that Jesus said
About the road to happiness through love and charity
Why, you’d think He’s talking straight to you and me
Well, we’re doin’ mighty fine, I do suppose
In our streak of lightnin’ cars and fancy clothes
But just so we’re reminded of the ones who are held back
Up front there ought to be a man in black
I wear it for the sick and lonely old
For the reckless ones whose bad trip left them cold
I wear the black in mournin’ for the lives that could have been
Each week we lose a hundred fine young men
And I wear it for the thousands who have died
Believin’ that the Lord was on their side
I wear it for another hundred-thousand who have died
Believin’ that we all were on their side
Well, there’s things that never will be right, I know
And things need changin’ everywhere you go
But ’til we start to make a move to make a few things right
You’ll never see me wear a suit of white
Ah, I’d love to wear a rainbow every day
And tell the world that everything’s okay
But I’ll try to carry off a little darkness on my back
‘Til things are brighter, I’m the man in black