Like many great heroes, Bob Dylan was an unlikely one. The Minnesota native was not born an obvious performer or musical icon, let alone the person who would bring a consciousness to popular music or usher in a unique storytelling style that also produced industry-altering commercial success. And yet, he weaved together literature and poetry with pop music that changed the course of American musical history. Fame, awards, a fair bit of controversy, and legendary status would all follow after his creative vision was released to the world, most memorably with his critically acclaimed second studio album—1963’s The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. Sixty years later, the album still redefines what music can do. This is the story of how it all came together.
BLOWING IN THE WIND • Bob Dylan changed music—and America—forever
Chapter 1 PILGRIMAGE TO NEW YORK • Dylan went to the right place—at the right time—to launch his career
Chapter 2 MAKING A MASTERPIECE • Dylan’s songwriting outpaced recording, resulting in too many good songs
Chapter 3 A CLASSIC COVER • One image showed an entire generation what “growing up” could look like
Chapter 4 CRITICAL RECEPTION • It wasn’t a chart-topper but Freewheelin’ won rave reviews—and has influenced generations
Chapter 5 A REPUTATION TO UPHOLD • Freewheelin’ made Dylan “the voice of his generation”
Chapter 6 THE OTHER TRACKS • Freewheelin’ showcased a wide range of brilliance
Chapter 7 A LASTING IMPACT • Sixty years after its release, Dylan’s album continues to redefine what music can do
Bob Dylan - The Freewheelin' 60th Anniversary Celebration
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