Johnny Cash Poster. Johnny Cash (February 26, 1932– September 12, 2003), born J. R. Cash, was an American singer-songwriter & one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. Primarily a country music artist, his songs & sound spanned many other genres including rockabilly & rock & roll (especially early in his career), as well as blues, folk & gospel. Cash was known for his deep, distinctive bass-baritone voice, the "chicka-boom" freight train sound of his Tennessee Three backing b&, his demeanor, & his dark clothing, which earned him the nickname " The Man in Black". He traditionally started his concerts with the introduction " Hello, I'm Johnny Cash". Much of Cash's music, especially that of his later career, echoed themes of sorrow, moral tribulation & redemption. His signature songs include "I Walk the Line", Folsom Prison Blues, Ring of Fire, Get Rhythm & " Man in Black". He also recorded humorous songs, such as " One Piece at a Time" & "A Boy Named Sue", a duet with June Carter called " Jackson", as well as railroad songs such as " Hey Porter" & " Rock Island Line."