Bob Dylan at 80: Best Covers of His Songs and More
Jun 1, 2021
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Join Angie Martoccio, a savvy music journalist, David Browne, an insightful rock critic, Andy Greene from Rolling Stone, and music historian Simon Vozick-Levinson as they celebrate Bob Dylan’s 80th birthday. They delve into the legacy of Dylan’s songwriting, the enduring power of covers like those by Guns N' Roses and Adele, and how his music inspires endless reinterpretation. Discover anecdotes and reflections on Dylan's emotional performances and his complex relationships with fellow musicians that shaped American music.
The podcast reflects on Bob Dylan's legacy, emphasizing his influence on diverse genres and artists throughout music history.
Discussion of Dylan's extensive touring and adaptation during the pandemic highlights his commitment to artistic pursuits over public celebration.
Deep dives
Bob Dylan's 80th Birthday Celebration
Bob Dylan's 80th birthday prompts reflections on his legacy and impact on music. During the conversation, participants share anecdotes about his career, including a memorable moment from the Rolling Thunder tour where the crowd sang 'Happy Birthday' while he faced away from them. The discussion considers how Dylan likely spent his birthday, with speculation that it was a quiet affair focused on his artistic pursuits, such as painting and sculpture. Notably, his only social media acknowledgment of his birthday was a promotion for his Heaven's Gate whiskey, highlighting his preference for privacy over public celebration.
Bob Dylan's Touring History and Recent Years
The discussion covers Dylan's extensive touring history, noting that he started his 'never-ending tour' in 1988, with his last full year off being 1977. Participants express curiosity about how Dylan adapted to a year of no performances due to the pandemic and debate whether he might reduce his tour schedule in his 80s. Mention is made of his lack of controversial statements regarding COVID-19 compared to some peers, suggesting an admirable restraint. His last album, while described as sleepy by some, is acknowledged for its quality and marks another significant addition to his prolific discography.
The Impact of Dylan's Covers on Music
A significant topic of discussion is the adaptation of Dylan's songs by various artists and their impact on the music landscape. The conversation acknowledges that Dylan's songwriting is often open to reinterpretation, allowing different genres and artists to lend their unique voices to his work. For instance, Guns N' Roses' cover of 'Knockin' on Heaven's Door' sparks debate about its merits and the original's haunting quality. The list of the 80 greatest Dylan covers provides an overview of how Dylan's music has transcended his own performances, influencing artists across generations.
Bob Dylan's Influence Across Genres
The discussion highlights how Bob Dylan's music reaches beyond folk and rock, influencing a broad spectrum of genres and artists. For instance, artists of color like Sam Cooke and Nina Simone draw inspiration from Dylan, showcasing the interracial dialogue in music history. Aspects of his musicianship are explored, including the relationship between Dylan and artists like George Harrison, who admired and emulated him. This influence underscores Dylan's role in paving the way for the fusion of genres and the evolution of contemporary music.
We celebrate Bob Dylan's birthday with Angie Martoccio, David Browne, Andy Greene, and Simon Vozick-Levinson joining host Brian Hiatt for a look at our new list of the greatest Dylan covers and much more