Johnny Cash Receives Unprecedented Honor

The late singer-songwriter Johnny Cash joined a list of major historical figures as he received an unprecedented honor, becoming the first musician to have a statue in the U.S. Capitol in Statuary Hall. The hall features statues of notable figures in history representing each state.

The unveiling took place on Tuesday, Sept. 24, with Cash standing at 8 feet tall with a Bible in one hand and a guitar across his back. His head is bowed slightly as his left hand rests on his chest, holding the guitar strap.

A video of the unveiling was shared on social media, with people cheering as a cloth was removed to showcase the tall statue.

People shared their thoughts on the choice of Cash to represent the state of Arkansas, with a supporter writing of the musician, "That’s a great honor and well deserved! What a unique and beautiful voice he was!"

"Love it!" said another fan of the pick, while more chimed in with replies like, "Congratulations Johnny! You earned it! Rest In Peace!" and, "Awesome 👏."

But the move was surprisingly divisive, with quite a few people voicing confusion and disagreement over the decision to include Cash's statue in the Capitol.

"Why? I can think of far better choices," questioned one, as other fans of the singer shared similar thoughts, writing, "Love Johnny Cash but…why?" and, "I love Johnny Cash but I hardly think he needs a statue in the Capitol."

"Johnny Cash is the perfect person to be honored in that way. He was a man who embodied the American spirit in a way that few could," said House Speaker Mike Johnson at the event. The statue of Cash joins one of civil rights activist Daisy Bates , who is the other representative of Arkansas in Statuary Hall.

Many of Cash's family members were at the unveiling ceremony to celebrate the exciting accomplishment, including his daughter, Rosanne Cash , and his sister, Joanne Cash .

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