About The Song
“A Boy Named Sue” is a song written by Shel Silverstein and famously performed by Johnny Cash. Cash recorded the song live at San Quentin State Prison on February 24, 1969, for his “At San Quentin” album. The song tells the story of a man named Sue, whose father abandoned him at a young age, leaving him with nothing but a guitar and an empty bottle of booze.
Cash’s song explores themes of resilience and identity, as Sue grows up facing ridicule and hardship due to his unusual name, ultimately confronting his absent father in a climactic showdown. The song’s humor and poignant message resonated with audiences, making it one of Cash’s most iconic and enduring hits.