Johnny Cash's son opened up about his father's death and paid tribute to him 20 years after his passing.
Johnny's son, John Carter Cash, looked back at his father's contribution to the music industry two decades after his death on September 12, 2003, at the age of 71. He is one of his five children, and he also lost his mother, June Carter Cash - Johnny's second wife - six months before the musician succumbed.
Remembering Johnny Cash
In his exclusive essay for People following the release of his new book "Johnny Cash: The Life in Lyrics," John emotionally spoke about the "Riders in the Sky" singer "moving on" while everyone still searches for him.
"Perhaps the most dominant bears your likeness, leading fans to The Johnny Cash Museum," he wrote. "It opened in 2011, before the cranes went up. Yes, our hometown is alive in unfamiliar and astounding ways, but surely, your legacy began this boom."
He added, "Yet, it's still a place where dreams can come true, and gratefully, Nashville's heart endures. Your music and soul are very much alive within that heart."
John noted that he still feels his father's presence whenever he records music in the Cash Cabin Studio, and it reportedly inspires him and his creativity, as well as other musicians and technicians.
John ended his essay with praises for his father's voice and words, reminding Johnny that he is still very much alive in many ways. Through his words, the son still feels close to him even though years have passed since his death.
At the same time, John appreciates Johnny more every day.
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Johnny Cash's Cause of Death
The Tennessean posted a tribute article years ago to look back at the time it bid its farewell to Mr. Cash.
Johnny died at Baptist Hospital due to respiratory failure caused by diabetes complications. He endured illness for years until he ultimately passed away.
The music icon was able to perform for the last time on July 5, 2003. Despite his weakness and inability to walk like he used to, Johnny held the microphone again without any assistance and ditched his wheelchair.
He offered a heartfelt setlist, performing some of his hit songs like "I Walk the Line," "Folsom Prison Blues" and "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down."
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