Johnny Cash (1932-2003) is one of the most popular and influential figures in country music. He had superstar status throughout his life. His hits are still popular today: “I Walk The Line”, “Ring of Fire”, “Folsom Prison Blues”. Many tours also took him to Germany and Europe. The downside of his career was an addiction that lasted decades.

Johnny Cash declared himself a Christian and belonged to a Baptist church. Faith in Jesus helped him in his life crises. Cash recorded several gospel CDs and faith plays a role in many of his songs. Throughout his life he campaigned for those pushed to the margins - including prisoners. He played several times in large prisons in the USA. He was close friends with the popular US evangelist Billy Graham and performed with him.

SPIEGEL bestselling author and musician Uwe Birnstein has written a book about the pious side of the “Man in Black”. He tells the background to many songs and presents many Cash songs live.

Picture United Archives/Imago