Bob Dylan & Friends: Top 10 Dylan Covers

Hi friends,

The first time I heard, “Mr. Tambourine Man” by The Byrds, I’m telling you I was hooked. I think I was around the age 12 and was newly discovering other artists as I first got “accidentally” hook on The Beatles at age 10 (you can read all about that story here). I was also teaching myself guitar around this time and was determined to learn McGuinn’s 12-string riff even if it took me hours (and I did – until my fingers felt like they’d fall off).

But soon to my surprise (as I was the type of girl who needed to Google and learn all about a person), I soon realized that “Mr. Tambourine Man” belonged to Bob Dylan, along with many of other of my favorite folk songs sung by all my favorite artists and groups. Listen, I know half of you are shocked thinking, “Maddie?! How did you not know?!” Listen, the thing was, as I entered into the world of 60’s, classic rock music in my pre-teens, I discovered I wasn’t the biggest fan of Bob Dylan, or let me say, that he didn’t really grow on me til much later (Classic Rock lovers, please, spare me!).

I truly love Dylan’s poetic lyrics along with his some-what enchanting and catchy melodies (his voice continues to grow on me). Honestly, Bob Dylan reminds me of the fall; orange & red leaves on the trees, a slight breeze in the air, and the smell of Apple Cinnamon (Like the Air Wick wall plug in fresheners?!) That’s what his music reminds me of!

Anyways, Today I wanted to share with you all my favorite Bob Dylan covers and see if we happen to share any favorites!

10. “The Times They Are A-Changin'” – Simon & Garfunkel

Not only are they in the Top 3 of my “Favorite Artists” but their album “Wednesday Morning 3 AM” is one of my all-time favorites. Their cover of Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin'” is a truly classic with it’s classic folky-sounding vibe to it.

9. “It Ain’t Me Babe” – The Turtles

The Turtles. Enough said. This group just has that upbeat, classic 60s pop sound, so of course I had to add their cover of “It Ain’t Me Babe” to the list. Their version give off the “Hey! Listen! It’s not me, it’s you” vibe, and what’s not to love about that?

8. “Make You Feel My Love” – Adele

Now, I know she isn’t an “older” artist, but her cover of this Dylan tune is absolutely beautiful and emotional. She is a fantastic singer who puts a lot of passion and soul into every single thing she sings.

7. “Mr. Tambourine Man” – The Byrds

Okay, okay – I know I mentioned “Mr. Tambourine Man” by the Byrds as a song I really liked, but “My Back Pages” is one of my favorite Dylan covers by The Byrds. I love this version and always made me so emotional for some reason. Love, love that 12-string sound that The Byrds always incorporated in their songs.

6. “Just Like Tom Thumb’s Blues” – Nina Simone

Nina Simone truly has a voice like no other, my goodness. Her tone is just so powerful, so rich. It’s no brainer that her cover of “Just Like Tom Thumb’s Blues” would end up on my list. (BTW – Her live performance of “Ain’t Got No/ I’ve Got Life” at the Harlem Cultural Festival is one. of. my. favorite live performances – wow!)

5. “Blowin’ in the Wind” – Peter, Paul & Mary

A classic. It’s just a classic. There’s SO many versions of “Blowin in the Wind” that I like, but Peter, Paul and Mary take the cake. This version just warms your heart and hits you in the feels the right way. Again, so emotional.

4. “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” – The Grateful Dead

I grew up listening to The Grateful Dead and this song in particular happened to play a lot. This version just brings back so many good memories and reminds me of when I was younger, hanging out with my parents and their friends, jamming out by the fire.

3. “I Want You” – The Hollies

Listen, I LOVE The Hollies – especially when I was in my teens. I was constantly listening to them, watching live videos & my dad got me their documentary on video back in 2014 & I watched it RELIGIOUSLY. Their cover of “I Want You” has always been one of my favorites. Their whole album “Hollies Sing Dylan” is great and features all of their Dylan covers.

2. “I Shall Be Released” – The Tremeloes

I just love this version. Right from the get-go, the bass and the humming from the members of the group, drew me in to be quite honest. I also think that Hawkes’ vocals and harmonies are fantastic on this number and the strings are a beautiful addition.

1. “If Not for You” – George Harrison

If you know me, you know I love George Harrison with all my being. That being said, this is one of my favorites (just might be my favorite love song). The lyrics just speak of finding that one person who makes it all make sense. If not for you…where would I be basically? Just beautiful.

Thanks for reading! How did I do? Any songs that you agreed with or songs I’ve missed? Let me know with a comment below.

Maddie