When people say Bob Dylan can't sing, they mean he's not an opera singer, or a pop icon, or some vocally polished homogenized boy band heartthrob. What Dylan can do is emote. His voice expresses exactly the hurt or heartache or anger or pain of the lyrics. Nobody else comes close to being able to do that. If you want polished, go get an autotuned diva. Bob Dylan is pure truth in his music, his lyrics, and his voice.
No, they mean his voice is terrible, which it is. But it isn't his voice that makes his music iconic. And really, he sings like most of us would if we were to belt out the same thing, so obviously it appeals to the common person.
@@joshhencik1849 And he is fun a s hell to imitate...aways got a laugh doing someone else's song in his voice...imagine Bob singing a Bee Gees disco song lol
@@alanglover9117 I understand what you mean, but the emotions in rock and roll come from Blues and Rhythm and Blues. Bob Dylan understood this a lot sooner than most, so he was one of the first to embrace the most dangerous aspects of the Negro Music of the 1950's, the aspects that kept the John Birchers and the corrupt political and religious leaders up nights clutching their pearls. He showed the newly emerging Rock and Roll genre the path they should be on.
Bob Dylan's song “Positively 4th Street” was most likely written about a collage of people rather than anyone in particular. Dylan had become disillusioned with people who comprised the 'folk scene' in the 60s. The song is generally assumed to ridicule Greenwich Village residents who criticized Dylan for his departure from traditional folk styles towards the electric guitar and rock music.
Yes, I agree, it's probably about several people. There has been lots of speculation: Phil Ochs, Izzy Young, Pete Seeger, Tom Paxton... Lots of folk singers who suddenly saw their friend Bobby become a global superstar.
Bob is salty guy in general, most of his tracks have this perfect balance of ease and tension. Bob has some beautiful love songs but mainly his songs are presented from an observational perspective.
Joni Mitchell cited the song as one of her biggest inspirations at the dawn of her career: "There came a point when I heard a Dylan song called 'Positively Fourth Street' and I thought 'oh my God, you can write about anything in songs'. It was like a revelation to me". Some people say it was about Edie Sedgwick, but to me it was written with a man in mind. There is a lot of debate about who it is about.
Nope: this was his first electric release -- they did not turn against him for going electric before he went electric. There was jealousy because he was head-and-shoulders above the rest as a writer. There was more jealousy when he signed with prestigious Columbia Records-- the rest were relegated to minor folk labels, or smaller independents. Also, as he transformed from folkie toward commercial success, he was known as an "amphetamine prick" -- which he'd added to weed. He had long been criticized for "stealing" from existing songs -- which was actually the folk tradition: take a public domain piece of music and write different lyrics to it. Or take a public domain folk song and improve the lyrics. In this song he's talking about two-faced backstabbers who are friends to one's face but not to one's back. They exist everywhere.
Saeed, you really get it! It's so refreshing to witness someone like you realizing and understanding Bob Dylan. I enjoy your writers perspective and your quick wit. You said something about 2 weeks ago "Life can only be lived by moving forward; life can only be understood by looking back". I'm going through a lot of hard stuff over the past few years, and it looks like I might realize some relief soon. I really appreciate music; it's what keeps me on this planet, for real, and greater is my enjoyment when I see others open up to good and important music. You do not disappoint good sir. I urge you to listen to Dylan's Blood on the Tracks, and any of his earliest protest songs. I look forward to the reactions you post every evening.
Thanks so much for the kind words and sharing a bit your story. Hope you find that relief. Music is definitely a companion during dark times. And music like Bob Dylan's offers us other perspectives on insights on certain aspects of life which in turn results in other thoughts by ourselves. A lot to learn and gain from music like this. Thank you for watching and have a great day!
Just to say ,I am loving your analyses of Bob Dylan’s songs. I have been listening to Bob Dylan for 55 years and I am still learning more and more each day listening to other peoples perspectives. I knew what was coming at the end of Positively Fourth St and I was eagerly waiting to see the look on your face when he sang,” You’d know what a drag it is to see you”. Your response was a classic. I would like to recommend ,It’s alright Ma ,I’m only bleeding ,if you haven’t already done it. Even Dylan was impressed with himself for writing that one. He mentions it in an interview. It could take you a life time to analyse all of Bob Dylan’s catalogue of masterpieces but please keep going, I’m looking forward to the next one. ❤
Some people have great voices but are not good singers. Some people don’t have agreeable voices but are great singers. Dylan is in that last category. And furthermore he is an amazing lyricist. One in a billion.
Loving you channel, Saeed! One of my favorite Dylan songs that falls under the radar is “Most of the Time”. Incredible atmosphere and lyrics! Thanks for the reaction!
Of course! If you decide to listen to this song be sure to do the Oh Mercy album version and NOT the official music video. Legendary Daniel Lanois produced the album version and it drips with his usual flair.
@@galvinklatt5273 That album contains all that is good in my opinion! I just requested "Man In A Long Black Coat;" And others I really love are "Shooting Star;" and "Ring Them Bells" also sung by Joan Baez. (I hope bro will have a look at Joan Baez's "Diamond's And Dust," written FOR Bob Dylan, according to what she has said while performing this on stage!)
@@JamesJohnson-ig6of if you like Daniel Lanois, on the producing end…he did an album with Emmylou Harris called “Wrecking Ball” in 1996 that is terrific. (It won a Grammy for best folk album). Highly underrated. Most of all, it has the atmospheric Lanois drenched reverb with crystal clear tones. You might have heard of it already…if not it’s worth a spin! It has some unique covers.
@@galvinklatt5273 How would you know I love Emmylou Harris and her hauntingly beautiful voice! Plus I love her assorted Gibson guitars she plays! ELVIS also had some of the same ones she plays! There is a "Dove" version I'm a wishing for. I'll try to locate that recording of hers you mentioned. One of my favorite songs of Emmylou's is "Red Dirt Girl". THANK YOU BRO, I REALLY APPRECIATED THE HEADS-UP!! Minnesota.
A song I think you would enjoy listening & reacting to is a tune by Joan Baez, " Diamonds and Rust", about her intimate relationship with Bob Dylan in their youth. An absolutely great classic ballad.
I can still remember who I was thinkiing of when I first heard this Dylan masterpiece. I was 13 or so then, I'm 63 now. You never forget the first friend who betrays you.
When you get a chance, check out this Dylan stunner: North Country Blues (audio). The emotional effect it has on the listener is so deep and powerful, due to the haunting lyrics and his strong, lucid voice.
There used to be a great little head shop in the Dinkytown area of Minneapolis near the University, an area Dylan frequented in the late 50’s and early 60’s before he moved to Greenwich Village and became Bob Dylan. It was called Positively 4th Street.
I would never try to guess who Dylan is talking about in his songs. I personally believe sometimes even he doesn't even know. Like you said this song could relate to someone we know. Total Genius! Yes, many awards! I think Dylan doesn't really give a damn about accolades and awards. Keep going on your Dylan journey, it only gets better.
Said to be about the "folkies" when he went electric... this is THE most put down song ever, we all can relate to some folk who upset us for some reason, the last couple of lines are just right in your face. Listen to similar ANGRY Bob "Idiot Wind" "Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" "Ballard of Hollis Brown" "Masters of War" "She's Your lover now" "John Brown" some album and some even more amazing on the live stage, he is just the most amazing performer ever ... would take a life time to hear it all . but keep on keeping on delving down that rabbit hole of greatness
@@bartstarr100 Ballad in Plain D was by his own admission the worst song he's ever written. Idiot Wind is a masterpiece though. (And Dirge somewhere between the two.)
@@blacksabs5461 Yes, you're right. It's the one song he said he regretted writing. It was Martin Carthy who said it was the worst thing he ever wrote. I agree with both of them 🙂
A couple songs that Bob sings really well are: "Lay Lady Lay" & "Knocking On Heaven's Door." Plus more recent: "Man In A Long Black Coat." (One of my very favorites from Dylan!!)
The "Don't Look Back" U.K tour documentary from 65 by D.A Pennebaker gives an excellent insight of his personality & shows him smoking some people in interviews 🔥
The contrast of happy pop music, dark lyrics and snarky vocals is such a great composition. This song is not on any album, it was released as a single only. I believe Dylan was asked to create a single because there was a delay in releasing his Blonde on Blonde album. The Blonde on Blonde album was the very first double LP ever released in music.
Bob's songs are often about society in general. This does make you think of everyone that ever wanted to destroy you. Humans still can't figure out how to treat each other graciously with kindness.
Good reaction. I like how you put the ideas in the lyrics into your own words. I am often depressed when my friends don't "get" the lyrics of great songs like this one....
Yeah, no doubt, we've all known those types. I once saw an old video of German poet reciting poetry - who Dylan said he patterned his singing after. - fascinating to watch that!
Bob Dylan turned grumpiness into high art, how cool is that? He was stoned and tired and everything pissed him off. The fun part of this song is that he uses everyday street insults and makes them hilarious and cutting. It's a drag to see you was a very common expression back then.
This was the very first record I ever owned--a birthday gift on my 9th birthday. The 45 with From a Buick 6 on the flip. It was the beginning of the lot of events that shaped my life thereafter.
What's a good voice? It's all nonsense. Yes, he's great on Pretty Saro but his voice is great on most of his other tracks too in my opinion, just different.
I absolutely love Dylan's voice. All of those run-of-the-mill "pretty" voices bore me! Most of my favorite artists have unique voices such as Tom Waits, Neil Young, Tom Petty and Patti Smith.
Bro, you really need to do a weekly episode devoted to breaking down Dylan. Maybe it's because you're a writer. You have a unique perspective that reminds me of a professor I had who loved Dylan and would incorporate him every chance he had. Dylan changes lives, man. You're now a part of that in some way. Introducing ppl to Dylan. Love it
The song is about his quarrel with the folk revival community, which will be heavily covered in the upcoming movie. He wrote many other songs about this experience, and all in very different ways! I strongly recommend My Back Pages (he reflected on his zealous but confused protest era) (30th anniversary version is god-tier), It's All Over Now Baby Blue (used a lot of symbolism to imply his "enemies" were persecuting him) (1974 version is the best), and Restless Farewell (a much more gentle and earnest farewell song than 4th street, adapted from an old Scottish folk song). This guy is truly genius. Who can write about the same event in several completely different ways at such a young age, and all of them are masterpieces?!
The best Bob Dylan burn I read about was when the manager for Led Zeppelin introduced himself to Bob and told him, "Yeah, I manage LZ..." and Bob kind of looked him over and said, "I dont come to you with my problems, do I?" End of conversation. Absolute legend.
I think he's one of the greatest vocalists. Look what he did for the Beatles. Their first few albums they were "singing" like a boys' choir but after being introduced to Dylan they became individual vocalists that had passion behind their style (especially Lennon). Dylan's vocal influence is seen everywhere. Singers are much freer with the flow and tone of their music. Sure, Dylan was influenced by the likes of Woody Guthrie but it was Dylan that introduced the sound to the world. Dylan also articulates his words which seems contradictory to how he sings.
Once again, nice reaction and intelligent commentary. This song is more straightforward than some of his later stuff. Everyone has to like the punchline ending "what a drag it is to see you."
Masters of War, Ballad of a Thin Man and Idiot Wind are three awesome angry diss tracks (at least kinda) from three different eras of The Bobness that everybody needs to hear!
Love this one Saeed, Had a friend who wrote the lyrics out and put them in a frame and sent them to a guy who he needed to get the point across... needless to say it worked...lol
Awesome to see one of my reccs so soon! I think you'd enjoy the song "Isis" but specifically off of the Bootleg Volume of the 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue album!
Another like it, you asked? Like it and totally different. Try "Idiot Wind." There are more, but that's my favorite of his songs that harsh the way this one is, more so actually. He can be very biting but he can be very everything.
Dylan was a ground break for the pop music in the 60s, no one was doing stuff like these. Joni Mitchell said that when she heard these song on the radio, she thought that she could write about anything she want. "Like a Rolling Stone" was other song that changed the way artists composed, back then the length of the song couldn't exceed 3, 3 and a half minutes, because the radios played 3 songs and went to advertising. The fact that these songs are still relevant and stand for their quality musically and the context it is still amazing. "Don't Think Twice it's alright", "Idiot Wind" are other diss songs
i've heard that dylan was talking to the press, who broke from him when he went electric. he took a ton of flack. and a lot of writers accused him of selling out.
Oh man i Sooo am **Luvin** ALL your **Dylan** reactions especially your thoughts & feelings & takes on them! **PixieHugz** cuz yep we ALL do have those people nod **RockON!!!**
Dylan has a number of 'dis" tracks through the years -- She's Your Lover Now (1966), Idiot Wind (1974 but the real acid performance from 1976), What Was It You Wanted (1989), Black Rider (2020 -- though hee he may be dissing his own inner self).
I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that this song is aimed directly at John Lennon. And if you do a history on both men , their connection, and the direction they both went, it may make sense to you. Thanks for featuring this beautiful emotional song. Remember Don McLean: The Marching Band refused to yield (The Beatles). The Jester (Bob Dylan) was sidelined during that game in a cast. In other words, restricted. Peace out.
It is generally consider to be about Phil Ochs but this has never been confirmed. Interestingly several of Dylan's contemporaries in the folk scene thought it was about them and wrote their own songs in reply notably Richard Farina with his song 'Morgan the Pirate' and Eric Anderson in 'The Hustler' both songs are worthy of a reaction video. Also Dylan's song Idiot Wind
Phil Ochs was a genius. If it is about him ( don't think so but it's possible), they eventually reconciled. Dylan played for free at Ochs' Allende benefit concert. It's a shame Ochs went insane, he was an amazing singer-songwriter.
Oh a great song and great reaction. Here is one you should definitely do….My Back Pages. The song is an earlier Dylan rejection of the folk and protest scene. It has one of Dylan’s most cutting lines in it too…’ah but I was so much older then I’m younger than that now’. Which ties into Dylan’s frustration that the folk/protest scene was dominated by old white men who had been there for an age - and lacked the dynamism and representation of adjacent but separate activism like for example the civil rights movement.
When people say Bob Dylan can't sing, they mean he's not an opera singer, or a pop icon, or some vocally polished homogenized boy band heartthrob. What Dylan can do is emote. His voice expresses exactly the hurt or heartache or anger or pain of the lyrics. Nobody else comes close to being able to do that. If you want polished, go get an autotuned diva. Bob Dylan is pure truth in his music, his lyrics, and his voice.
Not only that but he invented the whole idea of real emotions in songs. Everyone else was wanting to hold your hand or letting me be your teddy bear.
No, they mean his voice is terrible, which it is. But it isn't his voice that makes his music iconic. And really, he sings like most of us would if we were to belt out the same thing, so obviously it appeals to the common person.
@@joshhencik1849 And he is fun a s hell to imitate...aways got a laugh doing someone else's song in his voice...imagine Bob singing a Bee Gees disco song lol
Perfectly said, kudos!
@@alanglover9117 I understand what you mean, but the emotions in rock and roll come from Blues and Rhythm and Blues. Bob Dylan understood this a lot sooner than most, so he was one of the first to embrace the most dangerous aspects of the Negro Music of the 1950's, the aspects that kept the John Birchers and the corrupt political and religious leaders up nights clutching their pearls. He showed the newly emerging Rock and Roll genre the path they should be on.
The man is a genius, no way around it .
Mind blowing! A kind of musical Shakespeare!
“Idiot Wind”
The last line is THE BEST!!!!!!
Bob Dylan's song “Positively 4th Street” was most likely written about a collage of people rather than anyone in particular. Dylan had become disillusioned with people who comprised the 'folk scene' in the 60s. The song is generally assumed to ridicule Greenwich Village residents who criticized Dylan for his departure from traditional folk styles towards the electric guitar and rock music.
Thanks for sharing that. Another great song!
Yes, I agree, it's probably about several people. There has been lots of speculation: Phil Ochs, Izzy Young, Pete Seeger, Tom Paxton... Lots of folk singers who suddenly saw their friend Bobby become a global superstar.
Bob is salty guy in general, most of his tracks have this perfect balance of ease and tension. Bob has some beautiful love songs but mainly his songs are presented from an observational perspective.
Joni Mitchell cited the song as one of her biggest inspirations at the dawn of her career: "There came a point when I heard a Dylan song called 'Positively Fourth Street' and I thought 'oh my God, you can write about anything in songs'. It was like a revelation to me". Some people say it was about Edie Sedgwick, but to me it was written with a man in mind. There is a lot of debate about who it is about.
Nope: this was his first electric release -- they did not turn against him for going electric before he went electric.
There was jealousy because he was head-and-shoulders above the rest as a writer. There was more jealousy when he signed with prestigious Columbia Records-- the rest were relegated to minor folk labels, or smaller independents.
Also, as he transformed from folkie toward commercial success, he was known as an "amphetamine prick" -- which he'd added to weed.
He had long been criticized for "stealing" from existing songs -- which was actually the folk tradition: take a public domain piece of music and write different lyrics to it. Or take a public domain folk song and improve the lyrics.
In this song he's talking about two-faced backstabbers who are friends to one's face but not to one's back. They exist everywhere.
This is so direct. No metaphors. Nothing obscure. Nothing about someone riding on a chrome horse with a diplomat. Just brutal honesty.
Saeed, you really get it! It's so refreshing to witness someone like you realizing and understanding Bob Dylan. I enjoy your writers perspective and your quick wit. You said something about 2 weeks ago "Life can only be lived by moving forward; life can only be understood by looking back".
I'm going through a lot of hard stuff over the past few years, and it looks like I might realize some relief soon. I really appreciate music; it's what keeps me on this planet, for real, and greater is my enjoyment when I see others open up to good and important music. You do not disappoint good sir. I urge you to listen to Dylan's Blood on the Tracks, and any of his earliest protest songs. I look forward to the reactions you post every evening.
Thanks so much for the kind words and sharing a bit your story. Hope you find that relief.
Music is definitely a companion during dark times. And music like Bob Dylan's offers us other perspectives on insights on certain aspects of life which in turn results in other thoughts by ourselves. A lot to learn and gain from music like this.
Thank you for watching and have a great day!
Thanks!
Thanks so much for the support!
Just to say ,I am loving your analyses of Bob Dylan’s songs. I have been listening to Bob Dylan for 55 years and I am still learning more and more each day listening to other peoples perspectives. I knew what was coming at the end of Positively Fourth St and I was eagerly waiting to see the look on your face when he sang,” You’d know what a drag it is to see you”. Your response was a classic.
I would like to recommend ,It’s alright Ma ,I’m only bleeding ,if you haven’t already done it. Even Dylan was impressed with himself for writing that one. He mentions it in an interview. It could take you a life time to analyse all of Bob Dylan’s catalogue of masterpieces but please keep going, I’m looking forward to the next one. ❤
Thanks so much for the kind words. I am truly learning a lot by listening to these. I am watching a few of his interviews now as well.
That line at the end just kills me every time. It's one of my favourite song lyrics of all time.
Right? It takes the rather trite notion of empathy as standing in someone else's shoes, and turns it into an insult. Genius.
I also recommend “Masters of War” he pulls no punches.
Some people have great voices but are not good singers. Some people don’t have agreeable voices but are great singers. Dylan is in that last category. And furthermore he is an amazing lyricist. One in a billion.
I love his voice.
Have you heard "Subterranean Homesick Blues" from this early period? The song and the video presentation are a real hoot.
I recorded a reaction today, but is unfortunately blocked. It is on the free tier of my patreon till that is resolved.
Loving you channel, Saeed! One of my favorite Dylan songs that falls under the radar is “Most of the Time”. Incredible atmosphere and lyrics! Thanks for the reaction!
Thanks for being here and sharing that recommendation!
Of course! If you decide to listen to this song be sure to do the Oh Mercy album version and NOT the official music video. Legendary Daniel Lanois produced the album version and it drips with his usual flair.
@@galvinklatt5273 That album contains all that is good in my opinion!
I just requested "Man In A Long Black Coat;"
And others I really love are "Shooting Star;" and "Ring Them Bells" also sung by Joan Baez.
(I hope bro will have a look at Joan Baez's "Diamond's And Dust," written FOR Bob Dylan, according to what she has said while performing this on stage!)
@@JamesJohnson-ig6of if you like Daniel Lanois, on the producing end…he did an album with Emmylou Harris called “Wrecking Ball” in 1996 that is terrific. (It won a Grammy for best folk album). Highly underrated. Most of all, it has the atmospheric Lanois drenched reverb with crystal clear tones. You might have heard of it already…if not it’s worth a spin! It has some unique covers.
@@galvinklatt5273 How would you know I love Emmylou Harris and her hauntingly beautiful voice!
Plus I love her assorted Gibson guitars she plays! ELVIS also had some of the same ones she plays!
There is a "Dove" version I'm a wishing for.
I'll try to locate that recording of hers you mentioned. One of my favorite songs of Emmylou's is "Red Dirt Girl".
THANK YOU BRO, I REALLY APPRECIATED THE HEADS-UP!!
Minnesota.
A song I think you would enjoy listening & reacting to is a tune by Joan Baez, " Diamonds and Rust", about her intimate relationship with Bob Dylan in their youth. An absolutely great classic ballad.
I reacted to it!
I can still remember who I was thinkiing of when I first heard this Dylan masterpiece. I was 13 or so then, I'm 63 now. You never forget the first friend who betrays you.
THE BEST SCREW YOU SONG OF ALL TIME.
There's also Idiot Wind
That one will go on my list 😄
@@SaeedReacts. That is brutal, but unlike this one, there's self criticism in the end.
I've heard Bob's voice compared to a cheese grater. But you'll never find him off key! The ear is as important as the vocal chords...🤷🎶🎶🎵🎶🔥🙀💯
1:08 #Dylan will always be the leading hand in modern #folk
You should watch the documentary "No Direction Home: Bob Dylan" directed by Martin Scorsese, about Dylan's early career.
Will look that one up!
Loved your reaction to this. 🎶🎵💚
I need Dylan by my side when I encounter certain ppl so he can help me put the hurt on them verbally 😉
Thank you!
There is a lot of ammo in this one 😄
@@deegomez2089 Your comment made me laugh out loud because I can relate.
Bob Dylan is a fantastic songwriter. I’ve seen the dude live. He’s absolutely amazing ❤🕺😎
Who cares if his voice is not stellar!!
It’s all about the words, the message and the great delivery that is UNIQUE!!
His voice is great.
Everybody knows someone who he's talking about❤ it
100%
And my second favorite song from Bob Dylan. The lyrics to this song is amazing. ❤❤Stay safe
Great song! And love the lyrics! Thanks so much for watching.
When you get a chance, check out this Dylan stunner: North Country Blues (audio). The emotional effect it has on the listener is so deep and powerful, due to the haunting lyrics and his strong, lucid voice.
Love that one too ❤
Great reaction to another great Bob Dylan song. I think you would really enjoy "Chimes of Freedom".
And not forget : A Hard Rain's A Gonna Fall...
Thanks! Hope to get to that one as well.
@@SaeedReacts. Both are great songs you never forget all your life...they change your way of thinking in sooo many ways....
@@SaeedReacts. Your reactions are sooo great...I thought in all those years I know these songs so well...but you give me some new visions...thanx....
There used to be a great little head shop in the Dinkytown area of Minneapolis near the University, an area Dylan frequented in the late 50’s and early 60’s before he moved to Greenwich Village and became Bob Dylan. It was called Positively 4th Street.
I would never try to guess who Dylan is talking about in his songs. I personally believe sometimes even he doesn't even know. Like you said this song could relate to someone we know. Total Genius! Yes, many awards! I think Dylan doesn't really give a damn about accolades and awards. Keep going on your Dylan journey, it only gets better.
We can all relate to this song at one time or another. I love all his stuff, especially the way he delivers each song.
When Bob was asked about his singing, he said (paraphrase)...hey, I can hit all the notes.
What more do you need? :)
Said to be about the "folkies" when he went electric... this is THE most put down song ever, we all can relate to some folk who upset us for some reason, the last couple of lines are just right in your face. Listen to similar ANGRY Bob "Idiot Wind" "Lonesome Death of Hattie Carroll" "Ballard of Hollis Brown" "Masters of War" "She's Your lover now" "John Brown" some album and some even more amazing on the live stage, he is just the most amazing performer ever ... would take a life time to hear it all . but keep on keeping on delving down that rabbit hole of greatness
I got my work cut out for me 😄
Thanks for sharing these.
More DYLAN Please‼️
Hey!!!, I’ve been watching your reactions today on songs that I love!!!! YOU GOT A NEW SUBBIE, keep up the great work !!
Hey! Thanks so much for watching and subscribing!
Your chuckle at the last verse was perfect! haha
He went all in 😄
I always laugh at that part too. What a drag
So good!
One theory is that he is talking about some of the old folkies who turned against him when he went electric.
love your channel...your right on...Bob is the man!..everyone can relate to one of his songs in life.
Genius artist! Thanks for watching.
one of my fave Dylan songs! You gotta check out his song - Things Have Changed
it won both and Oscar & Globe for best song!
This is one of the Dylan songs I used to busk... all on my lonesome with nothing but a guitar and my voice. People liked it a lot 👍👍🎶🎶
Dylan has dozens of "dis tracks". Idiot Wind. Dirge. Balad in Plain D. He didn't hold back.
Definitely want to hear those 😃
@@bartstarr100 Ballad in Plain D was by his own admission the worst song he's ever written. Idiot Wind is a masterpiece though. (And Dirge somewhere between the two.)
@@SaeedReacts. Idiot wind is a pure burn track. Mic dropper bro. You wont regret it lol
@@matthewzuckerman6267 he never said is was the worst song he ever wrote, all he said was that he regretted writing it
@@blacksabs5461 Yes, you're right. It's the one song he said he regretted writing. It was Martin Carthy who said it was the worst thing he ever wrote. I agree with both of them 🙂
A couple songs that Bob sings really well are:
"Lay Lady Lay" & "Knocking On Heaven's Door."
Plus more recent:
"Man In A Long Black Coat." (One of my very favorites from Dylan!!)
The "Don't Look Back" U.K tour documentary from 65 by D.A Pennebaker gives an excellent insight of his personality & shows him smoking some people in interviews 🔥
The contrast of happy pop music, dark lyrics and snarky vocals is such a great composition. This song is not on any album, it was released as a single only. I believe Dylan was asked to create a single because there was a delay in releasing his Blonde on Blonde album. The Blonde on Blonde album was the very first double LP ever released in music.
I really think he invented the diss tract
Bob's songs are often about society in general. This does make you think of everyone that ever wanted to destroy you. Humans still can't figure out how to treat each other graciously with kindness.
Good reaction. I like how you put the ideas in the lyrics into your own words. I am often depressed when my friends don't "get" the lyrics of great songs like this one....
Thanks so much! Appreciate that!
2:33 because #bob is a storyteller
Interestingly, Dylan's singing "style" took quite different turn on his "Nashville Skyline" album. Check it out. You may be surprised.
My favorite song to listen to when someone ticks me off!
Yeah, no doubt, we've all known those types.
I once saw an old video of German poet reciting poetry - who Dylan said he patterned his singing after. - fascinating to watch that!
My best guess has always been Richard Farina but that’s just a thought
Diamonds And Rust, Joan Baez's look back on her relationship with Dylan, is well worth a listen.
I reacted to it!
"Dylan, keeping it 100" is right !!
Bob Dylan turned grumpiness into high art, how cool is that? He was stoned and tired and everything
pissed him off. The fun part of this song is that he uses everyday street insults and makes them
hilarious and cutting. It's a drag to see you was a very common expression back then.
Dylan was a great story teller.
This was the very first record I ever owned--a birthday gift on my 9th birthday. The 45 with From a Buick 6 on the flip. It was the beginning of the lot of events that shaped my life thereafter.
For everyone who saying Bob Dylan don't have good voice just listen to Bob Dylan - Pretty Saro best Vocal performance.
What's a good voice? It's all nonsense. Yes, he's great on Pretty Saro but his voice is great on most of his other tracks too in my opinion, just different.
Saeed, his singing and his voice ate as important ashis lyrics. He is a GREAT singer.
I absolutely love Dylan's voice. All of those run-of-the-mill "pretty" voices bore me! Most of my favorite artists have unique voices such as Tom Waits, Neil Young, Tom Petty and Patti Smith.
Bro, you really need to do a weekly episode devoted to breaking down Dylan. Maybe it's because you're a writer. You have a unique perspective that reminds me of a professor I had who loved Dylan and would incorporate him every chance he had. Dylan changes lives, man. You're now a part of that in some way. Introducing ppl to Dylan. Love it
I was sticking to a weekly schedule, but i was hit with almost 50 requests this week and i couldnt make it. But i definitely want to get back to it.
Love this song! Always have.
The song is about his quarrel with the folk revival community, which will be heavily covered in the upcoming movie. He wrote many other songs about this experience, and all in very different ways! I strongly recommend My Back Pages (he reflected on his zealous but confused protest era) (30th anniversary version is god-tier), It's All Over Now Baby Blue (used a lot of symbolism to imply his "enemies" were persecuting him) (1974 version is the best), and Restless Farewell (a much more gentle and earnest farewell song than 4th street, adapted from an old Scottish folk song). This guy is truly genius. Who can write about the same event in several completely different ways at such a young age, and all of them are masterpieces?!
One of my favorites by him
The best Bob Dylan burn I read about was when the manager for Led Zeppelin introduced himself to Bob and told him, "Yeah, I manage LZ..." and Bob kind of looked him over and said, "I dont come to you with my problems, do I?" End of conversation.
Absolute legend.
Haha, awesome!
I think he's one of the greatest vocalists. Look what he did for the Beatles. Their first few albums they were "singing" like a boys' choir but after being introduced to Dylan they became individual vocalists that had passion behind their style (especially Lennon). Dylan's vocal influence is seen everywhere. Singers are much freer with the flow and tone of their music. Sure, Dylan was influenced by the likes of Woody Guthrie but it was Dylan that introduced the sound to the world. Dylan also articulates his words which seems contradictory to how he sings.
Dylan changed singing, countless artists have copied his vocal style.
Once again, nice reaction and intelligent commentary. This song is more straightforward than some of his later stuff. Everyone has to like the punchline ending "what a drag it is to see you."
Thanks!
That is an awesome punchline!
Dylan can be extremely mean. Some other examples: "Ballad of A Thin Man", "Maggie's Farm", "It Ain't You Babe", "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right".
Thank for sharing these!
@@YeungSze "It Ain't ME Babe"
Masters of War, Ballad of a Thin Man and Idiot Wind are three awesome angry diss tracks (at least kinda) from three different eras of The Bobness that everybody needs to hear!
Love this one Saeed, Had a friend who wrote the lyrics out and put them in a frame and sent them to a guy who he needed to get the point across... needless to say it worked...lol
Haha, thats awesome!
"Like a Rolling Stone" is a "diss" track. "Idiot Wind" is a "diss" track.
I'm especially looking forward to you reacting to A hard rain's a gonna fall. 🙂
That one is definitely on my list!
Dylan
Awesome to see one of my reccs so soon! I think you'd enjoy the song "Isis" but specifically off of the Bootleg Volume of the 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue album!
Such a great song! Will add this recommendation to my list. Thanks!
Another like it, you asked? Like it and totally different. Try "Idiot Wind." There are more, but that's my favorite of his songs that harsh the way this one is, more so actually. He can be very biting but he can be very everything.
That one is on my list!
Dylan was a ground break for the pop music in the 60s, no one was doing stuff like these. Joni Mitchell said that when she heard these song on the radio, she thought that she could write about anything she want. "Like a Rolling Stone" was other song that changed the way artists composed, back then the length of the song couldn't exceed 3, 3 and a half minutes, because the radios played 3 songs and went to advertising. The fact that these songs are still relevant and stand for their quality musically and the context it is still amazing. "Don't Think Twice it's alright", "Idiot Wind" are other diss songs
i've heard that dylan was talking to the press, who broke from him when he went electric. he took a ton of flack. and a lot of writers accused him of selling out.
You need to check out Idiot Wind, from Blood on the Tracks - Dylan’s best album, in my opinion.
I believe that one is on my to do list.
Oh man i Sooo am **Luvin** ALL your **Dylan** reactions especially your thoughts & feelings & takes on them! **PixieHugz** cuz yep we ALL do have those people nod **RockON!!!**
Thanks so much!
Dylan has a number of 'dis" tracks through the years -- She's Your Lover Now (1966), Idiot Wind (1974 but the real acid performance from 1976), What Was It You Wanted (1989), Black Rider (2020 -- though hee he may be dissing his own inner self).
Thanks for sharing these!
This song helped me end the marriage from hell. I didn’t know what to say but Bob did.
This song is my phone’s ringtone
I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that this song is aimed directly at John Lennon. And if you do a history on both men , their connection, and the direction they both went, it may make sense to you. Thanks for featuring this beautiful emotional song. Remember Don McLean: The Marching Band refused to yield (The Beatles). The Jester (Bob Dylan) was sidelined during that game in a cast. In other words, restricted. Peace out.
Cleo Estates
4th time around is another Diss track.
From the movie French Kiss in 1994, "Bubb-uh Dee-len". Sorry, can't unhear that pronunciation once heard.
:D
8:39 A very unheard version you chose? Not the Album or main live?
Another great diss track is Idiot Wind
Thanks for the recommendation!
6:17 #Kyrasedgwick Auntie. That family is Really old money!
Try Jerry Garcia Band version 🍄noone does Dylan like Jerry Garcia. Dylan said so himself
For romantic dis tracks.... it's 'Idiot Wind' all the way. That entire album.
Excellent reaction. I recommend Dylan’s “My Back Pages”.
Thanks for watching and the recommendation.
3:10 yes #EdieSedgwick
John Lennon thought that this song was about him.
It is generally consider to be about Phil Ochs but this has never been confirmed. Interestingly several of Dylan's contemporaries in the folk scene thought it was about them and wrote their own songs in reply notably Richard Farina with his song 'Morgan the Pirate' and Eric Anderson in 'The Hustler' both songs are worthy of a reaction video. Also Dylan's song Idiot Wind
Also Dylan's Idiot Wind is one of his finest and great example of his scathing lyrical tongue lashings.
Phil Ochs was a genius. If it is about him ( don't think so but it's possible), they eventually reconciled. Dylan played for free at Ochs' Allende benefit concert. It's a shame Ochs went insane, he was an amazing singer-songwriter.
Pretty and biting. He's a good vocalist
Oh a great song and great reaction. Here is one you should definitely do….My Back Pages. The song is an earlier Dylan rejection of the folk and protest scene. It has one of Dylan’s most cutting lines in it too…’ah but I was so much older then I’m younger than that now’. Which ties into Dylan’s frustration that the folk/protest scene was dominated by old white men who had been there for an age - and lacked the dynamism and representation of adjacent but separate activism like for example the civil rights movement.
Definitely interested in hearing that one. Thanks for watching.
Still the greatest FU song ever!
Collin Forks