The Man in Black may be one of the most influential country musicians of all time, stepping beyond that realm to incorporate many genres and reach many people. His music told tales of dark conflict, wisdom, and real life stories of people he knew and loved. Cash began playing guitar at a young age, inspired by the gospel music that his mother exposed him to. His music was also influenced by the great depression, which he grew up in, as well as the death of his brother. His outlaw persona belied the true man which would come out later in his life, as he was a devout Christian who studied Scripture in depth, including writing his book the Man in White, about the Apostle Paul, and recording a spoken word version of the New Testament.
