June Carter Cash of the famed Carter Family and later the spouse of Johnny Cash has always had her story told through the lens of her famous husband. But all of that changes today with the premier of “June” on Paramount +.
Directed by Kristen Vaurio, “June” combines a lot of archival footage with new interviews that serve as a testament of the legacy that Carter Cash established in her own right. June was more than a musician. She was the matriarch of country music, helping to jumpstart the career of many country musicians including Kris Kristofferson and Larry Gatlin.
The documentary is full of people who were front row audience members to the life of Johnny and June, including their children, many of whom are musicians in their own right, and famous friends like Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson. One of the participants that pops up throughout the powerful documentary is West Virginia native, record executive and manager, Vicky Hamilton.
Of the documentary and Carter Cash, Hamilton told Born & Bred, “June Carter Cash did it all well with grace and style. It’s a beautiful film and I’m am honored to be in the documentary and part of this amazing woman’s legacy.”
Hamilton, who we’ve highlighted before, was instrumental in the creation of June’s album “Press On” when no label was willing to take on the elder singer. The pair met due to Vicky managing another act at the time, The Freewheelers. They were opening a show for Johnny Cash and June was backing him. Rick Rubin who was producing Cash’s “American Recording” series suggested the two work together. The project went on to win a Grammy for Traditional Folk Album in 2000.
From Vicky’s social channels, “I cried at the beauty of this story, June who I had the pleasure of making a record with in 1999, that won a Grammy in 2000 (Press On) was to this day, my best experience ever making a record. June who was married to Johnny Cash, not his daughter, was one of the most radient beings I have ever known. I’m so happy to see her get the respect she deserves. She was a great performer, singer, writer, actress, comedian, wife, mom and to me, client and friend. I encourage you to watch this fine piece of film making upon its release…they don’t make them like June anymore sadly! But we get this hour and half of viewing and she comes back to us.“
The documentary is a testament to the fire, crazy sense of humor, love and wisdom that carried June Carter Cash throughout her life and gave us the amazing catalog of music that we get to have for all time. Watch “June” on Paramount + streaming today. Have tissues nearby.
