Listen to this when
Hurt
Some songs aren't about the mistakes. They're about finally looking at them.
Who it's for
Cash's version turns the song into a life review, which lets listeners look honestly at their own regrets in a way that feels dignified rather than self-punishing.
Feelings it meets
What it is
"Hurt" was written by Trent Reznor and first released by Nine Inch Nails in 1994. Johnny Cash covered it in 2002 on American IV: The Man Comes Around, produced by Rick Rubin, the last album released in his lifetime and recorded while he was in poor health. Cash's spare version is a reflection on pain, loss and regret, and its music video uses images from his life.
Where to find it
Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music (widely available); the Mark Romanek-directed official video won the 2004 Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video.
Before you start
Heads up: Lyrics about self-harm and heroin.
Age: Ages 16+
Better pass boldly into that other world, in the full glory of some passion, than fade and wither dismally with age.James Joyce, Dubliners
