Hurt

About this song

Johnny Cash recorded his version after Rick Rubin suggested the song to him, and it was released as a single in March 2003 alongside a Depeche Mode cover, "Personal Jesus." It was the last single Cash released before his death in September 2003. The song reached #33 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart and #56 on the Hot Country chart.

What it's about

The original Nine Inch Nails song is open to interpretation, with listeners debating whether it is about self-harm, heroin use, or both. Cash changed one line, which may reflect his Christian faith.

Summary written with AI, based on the song's page on Genius.

Fun facts

• It's actually a cover of “H”.
• Sampled in 21 other songs, like “Decade of Pop: The 2000s (100 Song Mashup) by DJ Earworm”.
• Covered 18 times, including “Hurt by Natalie Beridze / TBA”.
• Written by Trent Reznor.
• Produced by Rick Rubin and John Carter Cash.