It’s no wonder fans flew from across the country and globe to be a part of the larger than life grand opening of the Johnny Cash Museum in downtown Nashville. This attraction even recently received the coveted AAA GEM rating, the highest bestowed on an attraction!
A Genuine Music Legend
Johnny Cash, born in 1932 as John R. Cash in Kingsland, Arkansas, was one of seven children. After graduating high school and spending three years in the U.S. Air Force, he and his new bride, Vivian Liberto, settled in Memphis, Tennessee. His first release with his band, Tennessee Three, “Hey Porter” failed to chart but his follow up release cracked Billboards Top 20. Numerous chart singles followed, but his fourth chart single, “I Walk the Line,” proved to be his career song. The new star’s single leaped to Billboards number one position, staying on the charts for 43 weeks, ultimately selling over two million copies. Throughout the 50’s and 60’s, Cash continued producing remarkable chart topping records, “Don’t Take Your Guns to Town,” “I Got Stripes” and “Ring of Fire,” just to name a few. His grueling schedule, sometimes 300 shows a year, caused a struggle with his personal life though. His marriage with Vivian ended and ultimately struggled with a brief narcotics addiction. Cash recovered however, with the help of his singing partner and soon to be new wife, June Carter. In 1980, at age 48, Johnny Cash became the youngest living inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame then bestowed its honor on him in 95’, adding him to the small handful of country artists in both organizations
A Home for all Things Johnny Cash
The land mark Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville is overflowing with celebration for the life of music legend, Johnny Cash. The exhibit features the most comprehensive collection of authentic Johnny Cash artifacts and memorabilia in the world. Experience the three dimensional walk through of the life and legend of the international icon. A wall of records, hand written lyrics, 25 different stage costumes, and extensive awards tell an uplifting story of fame and success. You’ll even catch a glimpse into his personal life, beginning with picking cotton on his family’s farm, his first toys, and authentic grade school items, leading up to his years in the U.S. Air Force and life at home with his beloved wife, June. The most exclusive part of the museum of all is sure to be a unique stone wall that was salvaged from Johnny and June’s lake house that burned down several years back. Whether you know a little about Johnny Cash or are his number one fan, the famous Johnny Cash Museum will leave you with a whole new perspective on ‘The Man in Black.’
More than Just Memories to Take Home
You probably won’t leave this experience empty handed though. The Johnny Cash Museum Store offers the largest selection of Cash souvenirs, apparel, and rare collectibles that will make sure the memories of your visit here last a lifetime. Last but not least, if you’d like to recharge with a hot or cold beverage and delicious bite to eat, Nashville’s newest coffee shop, Bongo Java Cafe is now located just inside the museum.
- The Museum is wheelchair accessible
- Photography is permitted
- There is an on-site gift shop