Best Bob Dylan songs of the 60s
The musician and poet is considered a living legend and myth of the folk and rock scene. Alongside the Beatles and the Stones, Bob Dylan is one of the most important figures in the history of music in the second half of the 20th century. In the 60s he left his mark with unforgettable songs. We will take a closer look at the best Bob Dylan songs of the 60s.
Here are the best Bob Dylan songs of the 60s:
- “Blowin’ in the Wind” (1962)
- “Masters of War” (1963)
- “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” (1963)
- “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” (1963)
- “The Times They Are a-Changin'” (1964)
- “It Ain’t Me Babe” (1964)
- “Mr. Tambourine Man” (1965)
- “Subterranean Homesick Blues” (1965)
- “Like a Rolling Stone” (1965)
- “Desolation Row” (1965)
For his musical achievements, Bob Dylan was awarded several “Grammys”. He is the first singer and songwriter to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, which he could not personally accept for personal reasons.
In addition to music, he also made a name for himself as a representative of the former hippie and protest culture through his humanitarian commitment to war and human rights violations.
Bob Dylan in the 60s
After school, he decided to go to New York. There he got involved in the beginning folk-rock movement, of which he became a leading representative.
He got his first record contract in 1691. In 1962 the LP “Bob Dylan” was released. With songs like “Blowin’ In The Wind” the self-taught musician achieved world fame. In 1965 his style changed. In his opinion, rock music was the right direction for him. He wrote the songs “Mr. Tambourine Man”, “Like A Rolling Stone” and “It’s All Over Now Baby Blue”.
In 1966 he had a serious accident with a motorcycle. His songs dealt with drugs and the awakening of youth. He was considered a dreamer and poet, a typical representative of the rampant hippie movement.
In 1966 he decided to take a break and concentrate more on songwriting. In this period he wrote “Mighty Quinn” and other songs that were later made hits by musicians like Manfred Mann.
The first country album by Bob Dylan “John Wesley Harding” came in 1961, for which he received positive feedback from fans. After “John Wesley Harding” came “Self Portrait” (1970). In 1969 Dylan’s son Jakob was born, and he later celebrated worldwide success with his band “Wallflowers”.
Best Bob Dylan songs of the 60s
“Blowin’ in the Wind” (1962)
60 years ago Bob Dylan plays “Blowin’ In The Wind” for the first time in a New York club. Quite unnoticed, the breakthrough comes much later. Millions of young people worldwide pick up the song at the time of the Vietnam War and sing about the longing for peace. “Blowin’ In The Wind” is still the universal hymn of human vulnerability and the still unfulfilled desire for the end of all wars.
This timeless folk anthem became an emblem of the civil rights movement and a symbol of hope and social change. Its simple yet powerful lyrics pose thought-provoking questions about peace, freedom, and equality.
“Masters of War” (1963)
One of the most important songs by Bob Dylan is “Masters of War”. It appeared on the LP “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” (1962). This record is counted among the most important records of the 20th century. “Masters of War” is a poetic hate song against warmongers and arms dealers.
With its biting critique of the military-industrial complex, this protest song stands as a powerful anti-war statement. Dylan’s searing lyrics condemn the individuals and institutions responsible for perpetuating war and suffering.
“A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall” (1963)
This epic and apocalyptic song showcases Dylan’s mastery of vivid imagery and poetic storytelling. With its sprawling verses, it paints a picture of a world on the brink of disaster, capturing the anxiety and uncertainty of the era.
The song’s verses depict a series of vivid and often surreal images that reflect the human condition, social unrest, and the consequences of actions. The lyrics touch on themes of war, destruction, corruption, and the moral dilemmas faced by individuals in a troubled world. The repeated refrain, “And it’s a hard rain’s a-gonna fall,” suggests the inevitability of challenging times and the need to confront the consequences of our actions.
“Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” (1963)
“Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” is a poignant and introspective song written by Bob Dylan. Released in 1963 on his album “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan,” the song delves into themes of love, heartbreak, and personal reflection.
In “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” Dylan addresses a failed relationship and expresses a sense of resignation and acceptance. The lyrics suggest a conversation with a former lover, where Dylan acknowledges the end of their relationship and encourages them to move on. The refrain, “But don’t think twice, it’s all right,” conveys a mix of emotional detachment, reassurance, and a desire for both parties to find their own paths.
“The Times They Are a-Changin'” (1964)
“The Times They Are a-Changin'” is an iconic song written and performed by Bob Dylan. Released in 1964 as the title track of his album, the song has become synonymous with the spirit of social change and the protest movements of the 1960s.
The lyrics of “The Times They Are a-Changin'” emphasize the shifting tides of society and the call for embracing progress and reform. Dylan’s words serve as a rallying cry for a generation seeking equality, justice, and an end to social injustice. The song addresses various themes, including civil rights, war, generational divides, and the need for collective action.
Considered an anthem of the 1960s, this song reflects the social and political upheaval of the time. Its lyrics urge listeners to embrace change and strive for a better future, encapsulating the spirit of the era’s social movements.
“It Ain’t Me Babe” (1964)
“It Ain’t Me Babe” is a compelling song written by Bob Dylan and released in 1964 on his album “Another Side of Bob Dylan.” The song explores themes of personal independence, disillusionment, and the refusal to be bound by societal expectations.
In “It Ain’t Me Babe,” Dylan addresses a romantic partner, expressing a desire to break free from a relationship that is stifling and confining. The lyrics convey a sense of emotional detachment, as Dylan repeatedly states, “It ain’t me, babe.” He refuses to be defined or constrained by the expectations and demands of his partner.
“Mr. Tambourine Man” (1965)
This folk-rock classic, later popularized by The Byrds, carries a sense of whimsy and mystique. Dylan’s poetic lyrics, coupled with an infectious melody, create a dreamlike narrative that invites listeners to escape reality through music.
“Subterranean Homesick Blues” (1965)
The lyrics of the song also make reference to the conflicts that surrounded the American civil rights movement (“Better stay away from those / That carry ’round a fire hose”—during the civil rights movement, nonviolent protestors were assaulted and doused with high-pressure fire hoses). It was Dylan’s first American Top 40 hit single.
This influential song is often hailed as a precursor to rap music, with its rapid-fire lyrics and social commentary. It’s energetic rhythm and clever wordplay captured the rebellious spirit of the counterculture movement.
“Like a Rolling Stone” (1965)
Like a rolling stone is one of the best Bob Dylan songs of the 60s. The severity of experience and the loss of innocence are the themes of “Like a Rolling Stone.” Old ideas, props, and myths are dispelled to reveal a very difficult reality. During a press conference at the KQED television studio on December 3, 1965, Dylan made lighthearted remarks about the moral standpoint of the song.
Considered one of Dylan’s most groundbreaking songs, it revolutionized popular music with its length, electric sound, and introspective lyrics. This iconic anthem of disillusionment and introspection marked a turning point in Dylan’s career.
“Desolation Row” (1965)
This poetic and enigmatic song takes listeners on a surreal journey through a decaying and desolate landscape. It’s epic length and rich imagery reveal Dylan’s lyrical prowess, captivating listeners with its atmospheric storytelling.
What is your favorite Bob Dylan song of the 60s? Let us know in the comments!
