Tommy Cash, Johnny Cash’s younger brother, died on Friday at the age of 84, a day after his famous sibling’s 21st anniversary. The Johnny Cash Museum in Nashville confirmed the news on Instagram, honoring Tommy as a dedicated fan and respected figure in the music industry.
Born in Dyess, Arkansas, on April 5, 1940, Tommy Cash was inspired by his brother’s career. He served as an Army radio DJ before performing with Hank Williams Jr.’s band. His music career took off in 1965, leading to his debut album “Here’s Tommy Cash” and several Top 10 hits, including “Rise and Shine” and “One Song Away” in 1970.
Tommy paid tribute to Johnny with the song “My Brother Johnny Cash” on his 2008 album “All I Care About – Shades of Black.” The brothers also cooperated on the 1990 single “Guess Things Happen That Way.”
Tommy’s death comes a day after the 21st anniversary of Johnny Cash’s death on September 12, 2003, and follows the tragic loss of their brother Jack in 1944. The Cash family’s story was portrayed in the 2005 film “Walk the Line,” which depicted the impact of these losses on their lives.