Johnny Cash Spotlighted at Hall of Fame

While other country stars throughout the 1950s and in subsequent decades were draping themselves in rhinestone-studded suits, Johnny Cash was pretty much sticking to basic black. The signature color of the iconic Cash will be well-represented in a new spotlight exhibit at Nashville's Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, opening September 30.

Among the artifacts on display in 'Johnny Cash: The Man in Black' will be a black gabardine suit with chain-stitched blue stars and brass buttons. Designed by Nudie's Rodeo Tailors, the suit was worn by Cash on his televised 1977 Christmas special. A black leather duster designed by western couturier Manuel Cuevas and a black leather briefcase bearing the initials JRC are also part of the exhibit. In 1980, Cash traded the briefcase with his then son-in-law Marty Stuart for a solid black one.

Also opening at the Museum on October 7 is 'Gene Watson: Fourteen Carat Voice,' a spotlight exhibit showcasing the life and career of the influential honky-tonk singer known for the hits 'Love in the Hot Afternoon,' 'Farewell Party,' and 'Fourteen Carat Mind.'