Bob Dylan is undoubtedly one of the most important singer-songwriters of the past century. With his folk roots and ability to share his profound lyrics about love, protest, and human existence, he has had an indelible impact on the music industry. But which songs by Bob Dylan are absolute must-listens? Here are the top ten best songs of the legendary American artist.
10. I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight
‘I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight’ shows Dylan’s more romantic side. Coming from the 1967 album ‘John Wesley Harding’, the song is a cheerful love song that plays with country influences. The relaxed atmosphere and warm sounds make it a perfect song to daydream to. In the context of Dylan’s body of work, it’s a unique exception; a song that is simple and direct, but no less powerful because of it.
9. Rainy Day Women Nos. 12 & 35
If there’s one thing for certain about Bob Dylan, it’s that he’s not afraid to experiment. ‘Rainy Day Women Nos. 12 & 35’ from the album ‘Blonde on Blonde’ is a good example of that. The lyric “Everybody must get stoned” is notorious and often misunderstood, but the song is primarily a celebration of life with all its ups and downs. A joyous fanfare of sounds fills the space when this song is played.
8. I Want You
‘I Want You’, also from the album ‘Blonde on Blonde’, shows that Dylan is not only a master of writing complex, captivating lyrics, but also of touching universal emotions. The melody is infectious, and the passion with which Dylan sings about desire is nothing short of enchanting.
7. Lay Lady Lay
In ‘Lay Lady Lay’ from the album ‘Nashville Skyline’ (1969), Dylan is at his most accessible. The song exudes a kind of sultry sensuality and is a love letter in musical form. A classic that is ingrained in the collective memory and often found on romantic playlists.
6. Just Like A Woman
Dylan’s acumen comes to the fore in ‘Just Like A Woman’, where he has the ability to capture the complexity of human relationships in a few sentences. The song has a melancholic melody and is both tender and painfully honest.
5. Knocking on Heaven’s Door
One of Dylan’s most covered songs, ‘Knocking on Heaven’s Door’, shows his ability to convey deep emotions in a simple way. The song was written for the soundtrack of the film ‘Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid’ and has since become an anthem of hope and sorrow.
4. The Times They Are A-Changin’
This song is the ultimate protest song and one of the most iconic songs of the 60s. ‘The Times They Are A-Changin’’ is a timeless statement about social change and the need for progress.
3. Like a Rolling Stone
This song is often seen as one of the greatest rock songs ever. It breaks with conventions and the lyrics are incredibly powerful. Dylan challenges the listener to explore life in all its facets.
2. Hurricane
In ‘Hurricane’, Dylan tells the true story of boxer Rubin Carter, who was wrongly convicted of murder. It is a protest against injustice and corruption, and proves that Dylan’s pen is as sharp as his tongue.
1. Blowin’ In the Wind
At the top of this list is ‘Blowin’ In the Wind’. This song from 1962 is a hymn of freedom and change and is often seen as one of the greatest songs in the history of American music. With its universal message and lasting relevance, it is only fitting that this is the best Bob Dylan song.
