Personal Jesus was originally a song performed by Depeche Mode. The electric band is originally from the UK. The song was the first one to make it to the US Top 40 since 1984’s “People Are People,” and was their first gold-certified single in the US.
via Depeche Mode’s official Youtube account
Johnny Cash’s Version
Did you know that the electric band did not know that the country legend covered one of their hits? When they heard about it, they said:
“I think when you’re somebody of Johnny Cash’s caliber, you don’t ask for permission.”
A true testament that Johnny has reached that level where other musicians respect them so much.
When the singer was asked why he did a cover of this song, he has this to say:
“I heard that as a gospel song. And if you think of it as a gospel song, it works really well. We didn’t have any major disagreement over that song, I just heard that a couple of people had recorded it, the writer wanted me to try it, and I did, and I loved it. And I went for it.”
The song is more stripped down because Johnny Cash wanted it to be more personal. He knows the message of the song so he wants to give justice to his cover. This is why Johnny is respected not only by the country fans but all music fans. It’s because of the passion that he pours in his performances.
via Screengrab from Youtube
Lyrics Breakdown
Reach out and touch faith
Your own personal Jesus
Someone to hear your prayers
Someone who cares
Your own personal Jesus
The lines in the song specifically talk about your own personal relationship with Jesus. It talks about having someone you can count on when you are in need. Someone you can reach out to when you are in pain. Isn’t that what we all need from time to time?
The song inspires us to not lose hope because we all have that Personal Jesus in our life. May it be your parents, sibling, friends, or Jesus Himself. That is the power of faith. The power to lift you up when you are in need.
Listen to the amazing cover here: