Renowned musician Johnny Cash has been commemorated with the unveiling of a statue at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Congressional leaders from both Republican and Democratic parties came together for the ceremony, which also saw the participation of Cash's family members. The statue, the first of a professional musician to be displayed in the halls of Congress, was met with enthusiasm from the hundreds of attendees at the event.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., praised Johnny Cash as a fitting figure to be honored with a statue in the Capitol. Johnson highlighted Cash's embodiment of the American spirit, from his humble roots as the son of southern farmers during the Great Depression to his enduring musical career. The speaker emphasized Cash's ability to connect with everyday Americans through his music, giving voice to the struggles of the marginalized and forgotten in society.

Recognizing the importance of artistic creativity in American culture, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., underscored Johnny Cash's diverse musical legacy. Jeffries commended Cash for transcending genres and labels, epitomizing the essence of American music with his country, blues, rock and roll, and gospel tunes. Describing Cash as a trailblazing and transformational figure, Jeffries celebrated the musician's profound impact on the music industry.

Adm. Carey Cash, a chaplain and Johnny Cash's great-nephew, commenced the ceremony with an opening prayer, emphasizing the spiritual and familial significance of the occasion. The statue of Johnny Cash on display features him holding a guitar on his back and a Bible in hand, symbolizing his dual roles as a musician and a man of faith. Created by Little Rock artist Kevin Kresse, the statue pays homage to Cash's roots in rural Arkansas, where he grew up on a cotton farm before rising to become a legendary musical icon.