I Hung My Head

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"I Hung My Head" is a murder ballad written by the singer-songwriter Sting. It was first included on his 1996 album Mercury Falling. It has since been covered by artists including Johnny Cash on his 2002 record American IV: The Man Comes Around.

[edit] The song's theme

The song is a reminiscence of the narrator, just before he is to be hanged, who looks back on an unintentional murder he committed. The narrator describes his trial and condemnation.

[edit] The song's structure

I Hung my Head is unusual for a pop song in that it is written in 9/8 time signature. Cash's cover reverted to a standard 4/4 signature.