Top Ten Songs by Bob Dylan

Robert Zimmerman changed his name to Bob Dylan in the early 1960’s. Born in Duluth, Minnesota on May th, 1941 and raised in Hibbing, Minnesota. Bob Dylan has been a music Icon for decades. His earliest works were typical of the times falling back on Gospel, Folk, and Blues classics. Upon the release of his “The Free Wheeling Bob Dylan” album in 1963 his lyrical content became aligned more and more with social and political issues. Anti-War protesters and civil rights movements, of the time, used his songs extensively to promote their agendas and life styles. Bob Dylan is a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient and has written and performed most all styles of songs Jazz, Rock-n-Roll, Folk, Blues and Ballads. Dylan is one of the most, if not the single most, influential figures in modern music.

When wading through the 100’s of songs written by Bob Dylan the task of picking the top ten if a mighty task. Here I choose to make the selections purely of personal preference. Meaning that according to me, I’m right.

1. “Lay Lady Lay” first released in 1969 on the “Nashville Skyline” album. This song tops my list for one reason and one reason only. When I met my wife of 29 years, it was her favorite. “Lay Lady Lay” remains our favorite to this day.

2.”Don’t Think Twice it’s All Right” first released in 1963 on “The Free Wheeling Bob Dylan” album. This just spoke to me when it released. With all the chaos and turns life throws at you, don’t cry in your soup step up, dust off, and get on with your life. It’s not fair; but, you have to deal with it. I believe the acronym F.I.D.O. popularized during the Vietnam War was a result of this song or at least its message. Those who know F.I.D.O understand, those who don’t I’ll explain another time.

3. ” A Hard Rain A-Gonna Fall” released in 1963 also on “The Free Wheeling Bob Dylan” album. A definite political statement of its time. With the United States in the grips of the Cold War with the Soviet Block countries, Bob Dylan hints at the possibility of a nuclear apocalypse. Interestingly a mere few weeks after its release President Kennedy threw America into the Cuban Missile Crisis. Nostradamus he’s not; but, I think he nailed this one.

4. “Maggie’s Farm” released in 1965 on the “Bringing it all Back Home” album. This targeted personal freedom from oppression and the decline of American farming. In the lyrics Maggie, the brother, father (pa), and mother are all the U.S. government. He ain’t gonna work no more.

5. “Simple Twist of Fate” released in 1975 on the “Blood on the Tracks” album. Showing how quickly little unknown happenings can change ones life. Life’s unexpected twists and pleasures. Don’t think twice it’s all right. Hey, the go with the flow message is good for all ages.

6. “Tangled up in Blue” released in 1975 on the “Blood on the Tracks” album. Similar to “Simple Twist of Fate” in that fate or little things can radically change ones life.

7. ” Shelter from the Storm” also released in 1975 on the “Blood on the Tracks” album. Although many interpretations can be made of this classic song, I believe it refers to the end of the long fought Vietnam war. He was Anti-war; but, with the returning American soldiers needing shelter from their recent hostile experiences. I think the song sprang to life. He wanted peace and to welcoming them with open arms. This would allow the soldiers to get on with their live. Of course it never happened that way; however, I believe he would have liked it that way.

8.”Lilly, Rosemary, and the Jack of Hearts” released in 1975 on the “Blood on the Tracks” album. This is a great ballad! Arguably some say it is to long; however, I think that is what makes a great Ballad and this is a classic goodie. Great sound and great lyrics.

9. “Hurricane” released 1976 on the “Desire” album. What a super civil rights message. It conveys a story of a man falsely convicted of a murder and in prisoned. This was a courageous stand for Bob Dylan and should be remembered as such. “Hurricane” later inspired a movie staring Denzel Washington. Most should remember this flick. You go Bob!

10. “Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again” released 1966 on the “Blonde on Blonde” album. Great sound and lyrics; but, the reason it makes my list is because I was stuck in Mobile once and not a happy camper! What can you say?It strikes a nerve.

Well there is my top ten picks from Bob Dylan’s amazing career. I know growing up during those years prejudices me for the 1960’s and 1970’s songs; but, I still love his songs. Trying to influence the nation through song during those hard years was no easy task; but Bob Dylan stepped up to the plate, swung hard, and took the day. I hope if you don’t know Dylan you will listen to his songs. You will discover his songs have been made, made, and remade over the years. If you know Dylan please revisit his albums and rediscover his genius. It has been said, it is a love hate situation with Bob Dylan. Listen to what he is saying and it will become self evident he was a rebel. Enjoy his music and have a great day.