Country music legend Johnny Cash made history this week when a statue of the late singer-songwriter was unveiled inside the US Capitol, marking the first time a musician has been honored with such recognition in the prestigious building. The state of Arkansas selected Cash to represent their state in the Capitol, after deciding in 2019 to replace its previous statues depicting Uriah Rose and Sen. James Clarke, who were identified as a Confederate sympathizer and segregationist respectively. A statue of civil rights leader Daisy Bates was also installed earlier this year.
The unveiling ceremony attracted hundreds of guests, including congressional leaders from both parties and members of the Cash family. House Speaker Mike Johnson highlighted the significance of honoring a musician in such an esteemed political setting, stating that America is about more than just laws and politics. The statue, created by Little Rock sculptor Kevin Kresse, depicts Johnny Cash with a guitar slung across his back and a Bible in his hand – symbolizing his dedication to both music and faith throughout his life.
Johnny Cash’s daughter Rosanne spoke fondly of her father’s reaction to the honor, stating that he would have considered it “the ultimate” acknowledgment of his achievements. Despite facing hardships during his upbringing in a government agricultural resettlement community, Cash forged a strong work ethic and later found solace in Christianity, devoting himself to the Evangel Temple church. As his daughter said, “This man was a living redemption story. He encountered darkness and met it with love.
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders also celebrated the statue, recalling her own childhood where Cash was second only to her family’s faith in terms of importance. She praised Johnny Cash for his authenticity and impact on American culture: “When so much in today’s world is fake, Johnny Cash was very real.” Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries credited the singer-songwriter for inspiring generations of artists and helping to shape the growth of the country as a whole.
Johnny Cash passed away in 2003 at the age of 71 due to complications from diabetes. Throughout his illustrious career, he won 13 Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award in 1999. The iconic musician also served in the Air Force during the Korean War, before releasing his first album “Johnny Cash with His Hot and Blue Guitar” in 1957, just three years after completing his service.
