The Story Behind Johnny Cash's Iconic Photo

The infamous shot of Johnny Cash flipping the bird at San Quentin Prison in 1969.

This photograph, captured by Jim Marshall, became “probably the most ripped-off photograph in the history of the world.”

Marshall is often referred to as the Godfather of Rock Photography. The juxtaposition of Marshall’s provocative photography and the story behind the Johnny Cash image gives an interesting insight into the connection between the photographer and his subject.

Marshall, known for being both a total “arse” and a charmer, had a knack for getting close to his subjects, coaxing them to drop their guard, and capturing unguarded moments that became cultural artefacts.

During soundcheck, Jim Marshall prompted Johnny by asking him to pose for a shot for the warden, to which he quickly responded by flipping the camera the bird.

The picture remained relatively obscure until 1998 when he collaborated with the legendary producer Rick Rubin on his American recordings albums.

The second American album, “Unchained,” won the 1998 Grammy for Best Country Album.

However, despite this success, Johnny Cash’s music was absent on country radio. Rubin, perceiving Country Radio as a conservative scene, decided to challenge it directly.

Rubin delved deep and invested $20,000 to place a full-page ad in Billboard magazine.

The ad showcased the iconic Cash, defiantly flipping the bird, accompanied by the caption “American Recordings and Johnny Cash would like to acknowledge the Nashville music establishment and country radio for your support.”

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