KINGMAN – Johnny Cash sold 90 million records worldwide. His style of music spanned the range from country music and Gospel to rock and roll and blues.  Starting his career in 1954, Cash cultivated his outlaw image, “The Man In Black,” a nickname earned for his all-black attire. He played shows in Folsom prison and at other prisons. Though Cash himself never served prison time, Cash felt a simpatico relationship with inmates and the common man. Cash passed away in 2003, and the hole he left was immediately felt by his fans.

In stepped Douglas Benson, frontman for Cash’d Out. Cash’d Out played to a crowd of about 100 fans at the Mohave County Fairgrounds this last Friday the 13th.

Cash’d Out would be considered by many as a Johnny Cash tribute band. The band, however, wouldn’t characterize themselves that way. “We’re huge fans of Johnny Cash, and we wouldn’t say we’re a Johnny Cash cover band. We simply put it as a Johnny Cash show,” said band manager Jason Butcher. Kim Wallace, who sings June Carter duets with Benson said, “I don’t try to impersonate her (June Carter); I just embrace her songs.” Wallace sang two to three songs in the set.

Originally slated to perform at the outdoor amphitheater, the show was moved inside the convention center due to concerns over the incoming monsoon. A warm, humid venue didn’t stop viewers from getting up and dancing. And the impression was that of joy and nostalgia.

The band holds a busy schedule spending much of the year on tour. With 25 upcoming shows from California to Colorado, then on to Alaska, the band has also performed overseas to loving audiences and has even had original members of Johnny Cash’s band join in from time to time. The band can be booked through their website cashdout.com. You can also search Cash’d Out on Facebook, Twitter, and Youtube. There you can find info about upcoming shows and watch videos of past performances.

Chad Walker