When the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum reached out to Rosanne Cash a few months ago, informing her that she would be the focus of a new exhibit, her initial reaction was one of astonishment. "Me? Are you certain?" she recalls asking. At 69 years old, Cash shares with PEOPLE her bewilderment at being chosen.

Unveiling Rosanne Cash's Musical Legacy at the Hall of Fame

Early Career and Country Success

For decades, this former country hit-maker had been somewhat distant from the genre's charts and Nashville's core. Instead, she chose to carve her own path as a New York-based roots singer-songwriter. However, her impact was undeniable. In the 1980s, with a fresh sound that merged LA country and soft rock, she achieved remarkable success. Two albums and 11 singles topped the charts, including iconic songs like "Seven Year Ache" and "Blue Moon with Heartache". In 1988, she was Billboard's top singles artist, solidifying her place in country music history.During this time, she challenged the commercial conventions of country, paving the way for a new era. Her inventiveness continued to shine through with albums like The Wheel and The List, which became seminal works in the music industry.

Reinvention and the Americana Movement

In the early 1990s, Cash took a bold step. She escaped conventions altogether and reinvented herself in New York as a singer-songwriter of deep introspection. This transformation led to the founding of what is now known as the Americana movement. Her ability to adapt and evolve showcased her artistic prowess.Throughout her career, she has been both burdened and inspired by her legacy. As the daughter of country cornerstone Johnny Cash, she couldn't escape the influence of her family. In her early career, she even tried to distance herself from her heritage. But over time, she came to treasure it and build on the traditions.

Personal Treasures and Family Connections

The exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a treasure trove of memories. One of the most touching aspects is the handwritten correspondence from her father, Johnny Cash. In one 1984 letter, he confesses his pain and guilt over leaving her after his divorce from her mother and affirms his love. Standing before these pages, now behind glass, Cash is moved by her father's unconditional love.Another significant item is the writing desk given to her by her father. On it sits a plaster cast of her hands and a drawing that inspired one of her album covers. This desk serves as a symbol of her creative journey and the influence of her family.

Creative Freedom and Activism

The artifacts in the exhibit also illustrate her creative freedom and activism in the last three decades. A copy of her 1996 short-story collection, Bodies of Water, shows her diverse talents. The samples of her scribbled lyrics demonstrate her poetic prowess. She has received awards like the American Ingenuity Award from Smithsonian magazine and the Free Speech award from the Americana Music Association, highlighting her impact beyond music.

Looking Ahead

Even as she realizes she has made musical history by being in the museum, Cash feels a sense of urgency. She is working on her next album and collaborating with her husband. One of their projects is a musical based on the movie Norma Rae. Despite the recognition, she wants to remain a beginner, continuing to do the work and be in the trenches of music."Time Is a Mirror" runs through March 2026 at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and is included with museum admission. The exhibit opening coincides with the digital release of The Essential Collection, a new 40-song set drawn from her 15 albums. Rosanne Cash's story continues to inspire and captivate audiences, a testament to her enduring talent and legacy.