Sight and Sound

I chose the video for Johnny Cash's cover of the NIN song "Hurt"

• The lyrics of this song have a very melancholy feel to them. In the original this isn't felt as deeply due to the rock nature of the performance. However, through the use of Mr. Cash's low, rough voice, as well as the inflection he puts on the lyrics the viewer can palpably feel the sadness he is attempting to portray. The visuals chosen, images of empty shelves, broken objects, and Mr. Cash sitting alone playing a piano, only help to amplify the aloneness presented in the lyrics.
• Musically, the very simple, sad sounding piano helps to reinforce the feelings generated by the images. By having Mr. Cash sit alone and play that really simple piano part, the images, in conjunction with the lyrics, the viewer is able to feel a connection with the piece that might otherwise be lost.

• Performance wise, this piece is masterfully done. While not done in the exact style he would perform in the technical aspect of the video helps to get across how frail the man really was at that point in his life. The editing, lighting and camerawork all serve to show Mr. Cash separation from others and the loss he feels from out living friends and loved ones. 

RIP Johnny Cash (February 26, 1932 – September 12, 2003)