[ndepoel]

The thing about Nine Inch Nails version of 'Hurt' is that it works best within the context of the album 'The Downward Spiral'. As a song by itself it's fine, but it doesn't really hit home unless you've been through the entire journey that the album takes you on. It segues right from the album's title track and maintains the noisy crackling from that song, making it feel incredibly fragile. It's a great way to cap off a very personal and self-reflective album, but take it out of that context and it's just, eh, pretty good I guess.

Johnny Cash's version takes the song and puts it into a new context, specifically as a reflection on Cash's own life and career. It hits very differently that way, and I think it's easier for people to relate to. Both versions are excellent in their own way, and I am grateful to Johnny Cash for bringing this song into the public consciousness.