Abou the song
“The Man Comes Around” is a poignant and prophetic song by the iconic Johnny Cash, released in 2002 as part of his album “American IV: The Man Comes Around.” This track showcases Cash’s distinctive blend of country, folk, and gospel influences, coupled with his deep, weathered voice that resonates with wisdom and experience.
Written by Johnny Cash himself, “The Man Comes Around” is notable for its apocalyptic lyrics drawing from biblical imagery, particularly referencing the Book of Revelation. The song explores themes of judgment, redemption, and the inevitability of facing consequences for one’s actions. Cash’s solemn delivery and sparse instrumentation create an atmosphere that is both haunting and introspective.
Upon its release, “The Man Comes Around” received critical acclaim and resonated strongly with audiences, solidifying Cash’s reputation as a masterful storyteller and interpreter of songs. The album “American IV: The Man Comes Around” peaked at number 22 on the Billboard 200 chart, reflecting its commercial success and enduring appeal.
Johnny Cash, often referred to as the “Man in Black,” was celebrated not only for his musical talent but also for his distinctive persona and his advocacy for social justice. His career spanned decades and encompassed a vast repertoire of songs that explored themes of love, faith, and the human condition.
“The Man Comes Around” stands as a testament to Cash’s ability to weave together elements of traditional American music with profound lyrical content, leaving a lasting impact on listeners of all generations. Its relevance continues to be felt today, as it serves as a reminder of mortality and the timeless themes that echo through the ages.
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Lyrics
“And I heard, as it were, the noise of thunder
One of the four beasts saying,
‘Come and see.’ and I saw, and behold a white horse”
There’s a man goin’ ’round takin’ names
And he decides who to free and who to blame
Everybody won’t be treated all the same
There’ll be a golden ladder reachin’ down
When the man comes around
The hairs on your arm will stand up
At the terror in each sip and in each sup
Will you partake of that last offered cup
Or disappear into the potter’s ground?
When the man comes around
Hear the trumpets hear the pipers
One hundred million angels singin’
Multitudes are marchin’ to the big kettledrum
Voices callin’, voices cryin’
Some are born and some are dyin’
It’s alpha and omega’s kingdom come
And the whirlwind is in the thorn tree
The virgins are all trimming their wicks
The whirlwind is in the thorn tree
It’s hard for thee to kick against the pricks
Till armageddon no shalam, no shalom
Then the father hen will call his chickens home
The wise man will bow down before the throne
And at his feet they’ll cast their golden crowns
When the man comes around
Whoever is unjust let him be unjust still
Whoever is righteous let him be righteous still
Whoever is filthy let him be filthy still
Listen to the words long written down
When the man comes around
Hear the trumpets hear the pipers
One hundred million angels singin’
Multitudes are marchin’ to the big kettledrum
Voices callin’, voices cryin’
Some are born and some are dyin’
It’s alpha and omega’s kingdom come
And the whirlwind is in the thorn tree
The virgins are all trimming their wicks
The whirlwind is in the thorn trees
It’s hard for thee to kick against the prick
In measured hundredweight and penny pound
When the man comes around
“And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts
And I looked, and behold a pale horse
And his name that sat on him was death, and hell followed with him”