“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Johnny Cash’s “The Man Comes Around” is a profound and haunting song that stands as one of the final works of his illustrious career. Released as the title track of his 2002 album, the song is often considered a testament to Cash’s deep spirituality and reflective mindset during the later years of his life. Known for its apocalyptic imagery and somber tone, “The Man Comes Around” captures listeners with its blend of folk, country, and gospel influences, making it a standout piece in Cash’s extensive discography.
The song was written by Cash himself, inspired by his fascination with the Book of Revelation from the Bible. The lyrics vividly portray the Second Coming of Christ, drawing on biblical references to paint a picture of judgment and redemption. As one of the last songs Cash wrote before his death, it is imbued with a sense of urgency and introspection, reflecting his thoughts on mortality and faith.
About The Composition
- Title: The Man Comes Around
- Composer: Johnny Cash
- Premiere Date: 2002
- Album/Opus/Collection: American IV: The Man Comes Around
- Genre: Country, Folk, Gospel
Background
“The Man Comes Around” was part of Johnny Cash’s “American” series, produced by Rick Rubin, which revitalized his career in the 1990s. This particular song was a deeply personal project for Cash, who had been dealing with health issues and was acutely aware of his mortality. The writing process was influenced by Cash’s study of the Book of Revelation, and he claimed to have been inspired by a dream he had about the Queen of England, which prompted him to delve deeper into the themes of the end times and divine judgment.
Musical Style
“The Man Comes Around” combines elements of traditional country music with folk and gospel influences. Its arrangement is sparse yet powerful, featuring Cash’s distinctive deep voice accompanied by acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle orchestration. The song’s melody is straightforward, allowing the weight of the lyrics to take center stage, creating an atmosphere that is both contemplative and foreboding.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “The Man Comes Around” are rich with biblical imagery and references to the Book of Revelation. Themes of judgment, salvation, and the apocalypse are prevalent throughout the song, with Cash’s storytelling ability bringing these concepts to life. The song opens with a spoken-word passage from Revelation, setting a tone of impending change and divine reckoning.
Performance History
Although Johnny Cash was unable to perform “The Man Comes Around” extensively due to his declining health, the song has been included in various tribute concerts and covered by other artists, showcasing its enduring appeal. It has also been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, broadening its reach beyond Cash’s traditional audience.
Cultural Impact
Since its release, “The Man Comes Around” has left a significant mark on popular culture. Its use in films like “Dawn of the Dead” and TV series such as “The Walking Dead” has introduced the song to younger audiences, reinforcing its themes of apocalypse and renewal. The song’s powerful message and Cash’s iconic delivery continue to resonate with listeners, cementing its place in the canon of American music.
Legacy
“The Man Comes Around” stands as a powerful testament to Johnny Cash’s artistry and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level. Its exploration of themes such as mortality and faith have ensured its relevance long after Cash’s passing. The song remains a poignant reminder of Cash’s legacy as a musician who was unafraid to tackle life’s biggest questions through his music.
Conclusion
“The Man Comes Around” is a compelling piece that showcases Johnny Cash’s unique voice and perspective. Its exploration of themes such as judgment and redemption offers much for listeners to ponder. I encourage you to explore this song further, along with the rest of Cash’s “American” series, to fully appreciate the depth and breadth of his final works.
Video
Lyrics
And I heard, as it were, the noise of thunder: one of the four beasts saying: “Come and see.” And I saw. And behold, a white horse.
There’s a man goin’ ’round takin’ names.
And he decides who to free and who to blame.
Everybody won’t be treated all the same.
There’ll be a golden ladder reaching down.
When the man comes around.
The hairs on your arm will stand up
At the terror in each sip and in each sup.
Will you partake of that last offered cup
Or disappear into the potter’s ground
When the man comes around?
Hear the trumpets, hear the pipers.
One hundred million angels singin’.
Multitudes are marching to the big kettle drum.
Voices callin’, voices cryin’.
Some are born and some are dyin’.
It’s Alpha and Omega’s Kingdom come.
And the whirlwind is in the thorn tree.
The virgins are all trimming their wicks.
The whirlwind is in the thorn tree.
It’s hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
‘Til Armageddon, no Shalam, no Shalom.
Then the father hen will call his chickens home.
The wise men will bow down before the throne.
And at his feet they’ll cast their golden crowns
When the man comes around.
Whoever is unjust, let him be unjust still.
Whoever is righteous, let him be righteous still.
Whoever is filthy, let him be filthy still.
Listen to the words long-written down,
When the man comes around.
Hear the trumpets, hear the pipers.
One hundred million angels singin’.
Multitudes are marchin’ to the big kettle drum.
Voices callin’, voices cryin’.
Some are born and some are dyin’.
It’s Alpha and Omega’s Kingdom come.
And the whirlwind is in the thorn tree.
The virgins are all trimming their wicks.
The whirlwind is in the thorn tree.
It’s hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
In measured hundredweight and penny pound
When the man comes around.
And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts, and I looked and behold: a pale horse. And his name, that sat on him, was Death. And Hell followed with him.