History of Bob Dylan in Timeline
Bob Dylan is a highly influential American singer-songwriter, widely regarded as one of history's greatest. His six-decade career, gaining prominence in the 1960s, has significantly impacted popular culture. Songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "The Times They Are a-Changin'" became symbolic anthems for social and political movements. Dylan's music, initially inspired by folk, blues, and country influences, evolved to incorporate complex lyrics, often reflecting political, social, and philosophical themes. His unique style challenged conventional pop music norms, resonating deeply with the counterculture of the 1960s.
1902: Dylan's Maternal Grandparents Arrive in the U.S.
Bob Dylan's maternal grandparents, Florence and Ben Stone, arrived in the United States in 1902. They were Lithuanian Jews.
1905: Dylan's Paternal Grandparents Emigrate to the U.S.
In 1905, Bob Dylan's paternal grandparents, Anna Kirghiz and Zigman Zimmerman, emigrated from Odessa, now Odesa, Ukraine, to the United States due to pogroms targeting Jews.
1923: Beginning of the Great American Songbook Era
This period marks the beginning of what is now known as the Great American Songbook, a collection of popular and influential American songs.
May 24, 1941: Birth of Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan was born Robert Allen Zimmerman on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota.
May 1954: Bob Dylan's Bar Mitzvah
Bob Dylan celebrated his Bar Mitzvah in May 1954, reflecting his upbringing in a Jewish community in Hibbing, Minnesota.
September 1959: Move to Minneapolis and University Enrollment
Bob Dylan relocated to Minneapolis in September 1959 and enrolled at the University of Minnesota.
May 1960: Departure from College
In May 1960, Bob Dylan decided to leave college at the end of his first year.
January 1961: Trip to New York City and Meeting Woody Guthrie
Bob Dylan traveled to New York City in January 1961, aiming to perform and visit his musical idol, Woody Guthrie, who was struggling with Huntington's disease at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital.
February 1961: Greenwich Village Performances and Networking
Starting in February 1961, Bob Dylan began performing at clubs in Greenwich Village. During this period, he connected with and learned from other folk singers, including notable figures like Dave Van Ronk, Fred Neil, Odetta, the New Lost City Ramblers, and Irish musicians like the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem.
April 1961: First Meeting of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez
In April 1961, Bob Dylan and Joan Baez, already a recognized figure in the folk music scene as "Queen of Folk", met for the first time. Baez would later describe her reaction to Dylan's performance, highlighting the power of his music.
October 21, 1961: Birth of Maria Lownds
Maria Lownds, Sara Dylan's daughter from a previous marriage, was born on October 21, 1961, later becoming Bob Dylan's adopted daughter.
1961: Dylan's Arrival in New York
In 1961, Bob Dylan arrived in New York City, marking the beginning of a prolific period in his music career. This era was later documented in Martin Scorsese's film 'No Direction Home.'
1961: Arrival in New York City
In 1961, Bob Dylan arrived in New York City, marking the beginning of his influential music career. This period was later covered in Martin Scorsese's documentary 'No Direction Home.'
1961: Start of Period for Bootleg Series Volumes 1-3
The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961–1991 features tracks from 1961 to 1991, showcasing unreleased material from various points in Dylan's career.
1961: Early Dylan Recordings Circulated in Bootlegs
Unreleased recordings of Bob Dylan from his 1961 sessions in Minneapolis found their way into bootlegs, contributing to the growing phenomenon of unauthorized music distribution.
March 19, 1962: Release of Debut Album "Bob Dylan"
Bob Dylan's debut album, titled "Bob Dylan," was released on March 19, 1962. It primarily featured traditional folk, blues, and gospel music, with only two original compositions.
August 1962: Career Defining Decisions
In August 1962, Bob Dylan took two crucial steps in his career: he changed his name to Bob Dylan and signed with manager Albert Grossman. Grossman, known for his strong personality and loyalty, managed Dylan until 1970.
December 1962: Release and Withdrawal of "Mixed-Up Confusion"
Bob Dylan's first single, "Mixed-Up Confusion," was released in December 1962 but quickly withdrawn. The song, recorded with a backing band, showcased Dylan's willingness to experiment with rockabilly sounds.
December 1962: First UK Trip and TV Debut
From December 1962 to January 1963, Bob Dylan embarked on his first trip to the UK. He appeared in Philip Saville's BBC Television drama "Madhouse on Castle Street," performing "Blowin' in the Wind" at the play's end. During this time, Dylan also performed at London folk clubs like the Troubadour, Les Cousins, and Bunjies, and learned from UK artists like Martin Carthy.
1962: Start of Dylan's Career
In 1962, Bob Dylan began his career as a musician.
1962: Unreleased Song 'John Brown'
In 1962, Bob Dylan wrote 'John Brown,' an unreleased song about the disillusionment of war. The song was later included in his MTV Unplugged performance in 1994.
1962: Early Career Developments
In 1962, Bob Dylan's career continued to evolve as he began to make a name for himself in the music industry. This year was also highlighted in his memoir, 'Chronicles: Volume One.'
1962: Release of Dylan's Debut Album
Knocked Out Loaded (1986) was Dylan's first album since his 1962 debut to not reach the Top 50.
1962: Start of Witmark Music Publishing
This year marked the start of Bob Dylan's work with Witmark Music, a publishing company for which he recorded several demos between 1962 and 1964.
1962: Bob Dylan's Debut Album
Bob Dylan released his self-titled debut album in 1962, featuring traditional folk, blues, and gospel music.
January 1963: First UK Trip Concludes
In January 1963, Bob Dylan's first trip to the UK, during which he had performed on TV and at various folk clubs, came to a close.
May 10, 1963: Performance at Brandeis University
Bob Dylan performed at Brandeis University on May 10, 1963, two weeks before the release of "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan", captured in the album "Bob Dylan in Concert – Brandeis University 1963".
May 1963: Release of "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan"
In May 1963, Bob Dylan's second album, "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan," was released. This album marked Dylan's emergence as a singer-songwriter, featuring many songs classified as protest songs, influenced by Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger.
May 1963: Dylan Walks Out of "The Ed Sullivan Show"
In May 1963, Bob Dylan walked out of "The Ed Sullivan Show" after CBS censors deemed his song "Talkin' John Birch Paranoid Blues" potentially libelous. Refusing to comply with censorship, Dylan chose not to appear on the show.
July 1963: Dylan and Baez Duet at Newport Folk Festival
July 1963 marked a significant collaborative moment as Joan Baez invited Bob Dylan to join her on stage at the Newport Folk Festival. This event served as a catalyst for future duets between the two artists over the following two years.
August 28, 1963: March on Washington Performance
On August 28, 1963, Bob Dylan, alongside Joan Baez, performed at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Their participation highlighted their prominence in the civil rights movement.
1963: Tom Paine Award and Controversial Remarks
In 1963, Bob Dylan received the Tom Paine Award from the National Emergency Civil Liberties Committee. In an intoxicated state, he questioned the committee's role, made disparaging remarks about its members, and claimed to see something of himself and every man in President Kennedy's assassin, Lee Harvey Oswald, sparking controversy.
1963: End of the Great American Songbook Era
This period marks the generally accepted end of what is now known as the Great American Songbook, a collection of popular and influential American songs.
1963: Previous Appearances at Newport Folk Festival
Before the controversial 1965 performance, Bob Dylan had appeared at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963 and 1964, gaining recognition in the folk community.
1963: "Blowin' in the Wind" released
In 1963, Bob Dylan released "Blowin' in the Wind," a song that became an anthem for the civil rights movement.
June 9, 1964: Recording of "Another Side of Bob Dylan"
In a single evening on June 9, 1964, Bob Dylan recorded "Another Side of Bob Dylan." This album displayed a lighter mood compared to his previous work.
1964: Release of "The Times They Are a-Changin'" and "Another Side of Bob Dylan"
Bob Dylan released two influential albums in 1964, "The Times They Are a-Changin'," known for its political themes, and "Another Side of Bob Dylan," showcasing a more introspective and abstract lyrical style.
1964: Transition to Folk-Rock Star
During the latter half of 1964 and into 1965, Bob Dylan's image underwent a transformation. He shed his folk persona, replacing his simple clothing with a trendy Carnaby Street wardrobe, embracing sunglasses, and adopting "Beatle boots." This shift marked his transition from folk songwriter to folk-rock pop-music star.
1964: End of Dylan and Suze Rotolo's Relationship
Bob Dylan's relationship with artist Suze Rotolo, known for her appearance on the cover of "The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan" and believed to be the inspiration behind some of his early love songs, came to an end in 1964.
1964: "The Times They Are a-Changin'" released
Bob Dylan's song "The Times They Are a-Changin'" was released in 1964, becoming an anthem for the anti-war movement.
1964: Creation of a Unique Body of Work
Between late 1964 and mid-1966, Dylan created a distinctive body of work, blending diverse genres and literary styles, forging an original artistic vision.
1964: Previous Appearances at Newport Folk Festival
Before the controversial 1965 performance, Bob Dylan had appeared at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963 and 1964, gaining recognition in the folk community.
1964: End of Witmark Music Publishing
1964 marked the end of Bob Dylan's work with Witmark Music, a publishing company for which he recorded demos from 1962 to 1964.
January 1965: Start of Recording Sessions for "Bringing It All Back Home", "Highway 61 Revisited", and "Blonde on Blonde"
From January 1965 to March 1966, Dylan recorded three albums: "Bringing It All Back Home", "Highway 61 Revisited", and "Blonde on Blonde".
March 1965: Release of "Bringing It All Back Home" and First Electric Recordings
In March 1965, Bob Dylan released "Bringing It All Back Home," marking his first recordings with electric instruments. The first single, "Subterranean Homesick Blues," with its free-association lyrics, owed a stylistic debt to Chuck Berry and is considered a forerunner to rap and hip-hop. This era also saw the creation of an early music video for the song, featuring Dylan throwing cue cards with key words, a technique that has been widely imitated since.
July 1965: Release of "Like a Rolling Stone"
In July 1965, Bob Dylan released "Like a Rolling Stone", a six-minute single that peaked at number two in the US and was later recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time.
September 24, 1965: Start of Dylan's US and Canada Tour
On September 24, 1965, Bob Dylan embarked on a six-month tour of the US and Canada, backed by the five musicians from the Hawks who would later become known as The Band.
November 22, 1965: Dylan's Marriage to Sara Lownds
On November 22, 1965, Bob Dylan married 25-year-old former model Sara Lownds in a quiet ceremony, a fact he initially denied to friends.
1965: Dylan and Baez's Romantic Relationship Fades
During Bob Dylan's 1965 tour of the U.K, his romantic involvement with Joan Baez began to dissolve. This period was captured in D. A. Pennebaker's documentary "Dont Look Back", offering a glimpse into the dynamics of their relationship at that time.
1965: Controversial Electric Set at Newport Folk Festival
In 1965, Bob Dylan performed his first electric set since high school at the Newport Folk Festival, backed by a group featuring Mike Bloomfield and Al Kooper. This performance, met with both cheers and boos, led Dylan to leave the stage after three songs. While one interpretation suggests the boos originated from folk fans displeased by Dylan's electric guitar, another account attributes the negative reaction to poor sound and a short set.
1965: Dylan Embraces Electric Instruments
In 1965, Bob Dylan sparked controversy by incorporating electric instruments into his music, marking a departure from his acoustic folk roots.
1965: Transition to Folk-Rock Star Continues
Throughout 1965, Bob Dylan continued his transition from folk songwriter to folk-rock pop-music star, further solidifying his new image.
January 6, 1966: Birth of Jesse Byron Dylan
Jesse Byron Dylan, Bob Dylan's first child with Sara Lownds, was born on January 6, 1966.
February 5, 1966: Start of Dylan's 1966 Concert Tour
Dylan started his 1966 concert tour on February 5, 1966, in White Plains, New York.
February 1966: Public Announcement of Dylan's Marriage
In February 1966, Nora Ephron publicly revealed Bob Dylan's marriage to Sara Lownds in the New York Post, generating significant media attention.
February 1966: Recording of Blonde on Blonde in Nashville
In February 1966, Bob Dylan recorded his double album Blonde on Blonde in Nashville, working with top session musicians and creating what he called "that thin wild mercury sound".
March 1966: End of Recording Sessions for "Bringing It All Back Home", "Highway 61 Revisited", and "Blonde on Blonde"
From January 1965 to March 1966, Dylan recorded three albums: "Bringing It All Back Home", "Highway 61 Revisited", and "Blonde on Blonde".
May 1966: Conclusion of Dylan's Australia and Europe Tour
In May 1966, Bob Dylan's tour of Australia and Europe concluded, marked by increasing conflicts with fans who disapproved of his transition to electric music.
May 17, 1966: Confrontation at Manchester Free Trade Hall
On May 17, 1966, at the Manchester Free Trade Hall, Bob Dylan was heckled by a fan who called him "Judas!" for performing with electric instruments. Dylan retorted and instructed his band to play louder, highlighting the growing tension between him and some of his folk-oriented fans.
July 1966: Motorcycle Accident and Withdrawal from Touring
In July 1966, Bob Dylan was involved in a motorcycle accident that led to his withdrawal from touring.
July 29, 1966: Dylan's Motorcycle Accident
On July 29, 1966, Bob Dylan crashed his Triumph Tiger 100 motorcycle near his home in Woodstock, New York, resulting in a neck injury. Despite the seriousness of the accident, no ambulance was called and he was not hospitalized. Dylan later revealed that he saw the accident as an opportunity to escape from the pressures of fame.
1966: Motorcycle Crash
In 1966, Bob Dylan was involved in a motorcycle crash, a significant event in his life that was covered in the documentary 'No Direction Home.' This incident marked a turning point in his career.
1966: Dylan's Exhaustion and Drug Use During Tour
During his 1966 tour, Bob Dylan was reportedly exhausted and relied heavily on drugs to maintain his performance schedule, reflecting the intense pressures of his career at that time.
1966: Release of "Blonde on Blonde"
Bob Dylan released his acclaimed album "Blonde on Blonde" in 1966, completing a trilogy of influential rock albums that began in 1965.
1966: Creation of a Unique Body of Work
Between late 1964 and mid-1966, Dylan created a distinctive body of work, blending diverse genres and literary styles, forging an original artistic vision.
1966: Dylan Begins Work on Eat the Document Film
After recovering from his motorcycle accident, Bob Dylan started editing D. A. Pennebaker's film of his 1966 world tour, a project that was ultimately deemed too unconventional for mainstream audiences.
1966: Backing Band for Dylan's Tour
The Band served as Bob Dylan's backing band during his influential 1966 tour, contributing to the sound and energy of his performances.
July 11, 1967: Birth of Anna Lea Dylan
Anna Lea Dylan, Bob and Sara Dylan's second child, was born on July 11, 1967.
October 1967: Death of Woody Guthrie
In October 1967, Woody Guthrie, a major influence on Bob Dylan, passed away.
1967: Release of John Wesley Harding
Bob Dylan's eighth studio album, "John Wesley Harding", was released in 1967 and later included in "Bob Dylan: The Original Mono Recordings" box set.
1967: The Basement Tapes Recording Sessions
Dylan and the Band recorded music in 1967 at their homes in Woodstock, New York. These recordings were later known as "The Basement Tapes".
1967: Unreleased Song Featured in I'm Not There
Dylan's previously unreleased 1967 song, from which the film I'm Not There takes its name, was included in the original soundtrack, along with covers by various artists.
1967: The Basement Tapes Recording
In 1967, Bob Dylan and the Band collaborated on recording The Basement Tapes, a collection of influential and experimental music that later gained legendary status.
1967: Dylan Records Over 100 Songs in Woodstock
In 1967, while secluded from public life, Bob Dylan recorded a prolific amount of music at his Woodstock home and at the nearby "Big Pink", the house shared by members of The Band.
1967: Release of "John Wesley Harding"
Bob Dylan released the album "John Wesley Harding" in 1967, exploring country music and rural themes.
January 20, 1968: Dylan's First Live Appearance in 20 Months
On January 20, 1968, Bob Dylan made his first live performance in twenty months at a Woody Guthrie memorial concert held at Carnegie Hall, performing alongside The Band.
July 30, 1968: Birth of Samuel Isaac Abram Dylan
Samuel Isaac Abram Dylan, the third child of Bob and Sara Dylan, was born on July 30, 1968.
November 1968: Collaboration with George Harrison
In November 1968, Bob Dylan co-wrote the song "I'd Have You Anytime" with George Harrison, who included this song, along with Dylan's "If Not for You," on his album "All Things Must Pass."
1968: First Public Artwork
Bob Dylan's painting was used as the cover for The Band's album Music from Big Pink in 1968, marking the first time the public saw his artwork.
1968: Baez Publishes "Daybreak"
Joan Baez released her first autobiography, "Daybreak", in 1968, in which she expressed admiration for Bob Dylan, further highlighting their relationship during that era.
May 1969: Dylan's Appearance on The Johnny Cash Show
In May 1969, Bob Dylan appeared as a guest on the first episode of The Johnny Cash Show, performing a duet with Cash on "Girl from the North Country" and showcasing two of his own songs, "Living the Blues" and "I Threw It All Away".
July 1969: Emergence of the First Dylan Bootleg Recording
In July 1969, the first bootleg recording of Bob Dylan's music, titled "Great White Wonder", surfaced in West Coast shops. It featured unreleased material from his 1961 Minneapolis sessions and seven songs from the "Basement Tapes".
August 31, 1969: Dylan Headlines Isle of Wight Festival
On August 31, 1969, Bob Dylan headlined the Isle of Wight Festival in England, opting to perform there rather than at the Woodstock Festival closer to his New York home.
December 9, 1969: Birth of Jakob Luke Dylan
Jakob Luke Dylan, Bob and Sara Dylan's fourth child, was born on December 9, 1969.
1969: Release of "Nashville Skyline"
Bob Dylan further explored country music and rural themes with the release of "Nashville Skyline" in 1969.
1969: Recording Sessions with Johnny Cash
During 1969, Bob Dylan collaborated with Johnny Cash in Nashville, recording songs that would later be included in his Bootleg Series Vol. 15, released in November 2019.
1969: Dylan's Admission of Drug Use in Rolling Stone Interview
In 1969, Bob Dylan admitted to Jann Wenner of Rolling Stone magazine that he had used drugs to cope with the demands of his five-year tour.
1969: Release of Nashville Skyline
In 1969, Bob Dylan released Nashville Skyline, an album that showcased his softer vocal style and featured a duet with Johnny Cash. The record was well-received and influential in the emerging genre of country rock.
1969: Dylan's Performance at the Isle of Wight Festival
In 1969, Dylan performed with the Band at the Isle of Wight Festival. A live recording of this performance was included in the Volume 10 of Dylan's Bootleg Series.
May 1, 1970: Recording Session with George Harrison
On May 1, 1970, Bob Dylan recorded a session with George Harrison. This recording was later included in the 3-CD set "1970," released by Columbia Records in February 2021.
June 9, 1970: Honorary Degree from Princeton University
Bob Dylan received an honorary degree from Princeton University on June 9, 1970. He later recounted this experience in his song "Day of the Locusts."
June 1970: Release of "Self Portrait"
Bob Dylan released the double LP "Self Portrait" in June 1970. This album featured few original songs and was met with negative reviews, notably from critic Greil Marcus.
October 1970: Release of "New Morning"
Considered a return to form after the poorly received "Self Portrait," Bob Dylan released the album "New Morning" in October 1970.
1970: End of an Era
In 1970, Bob Dylan's professional relationship with his manager Albert Grossman came to an end.
1970: Self Portrait Album Cover
In 1970, Bob Dylan's album Self Portrait featured one of his paintings, a portrait of a human face, on the cover.
1970: Release of New Morning
In 1970, Bob Dylan released the album 'New Morning,' which was later discussed in his memoir, 'Chronicles: Volume One.' The album marked a significant period in Dylan's career.
1970: Recording Session with Earl Scruggs
In 1970, Bob Dylan recorded with Earl Scruggs. These recordings would later become part of "Bob Dylan (featuring Johnny Cash) – Travelin' Thru, 1967 – 1969: The Bootleg Series Vol. 15," released in November 2019.
1970: Publication of "Tarantula"
Bob Dylan's book of prose-poetry, "Tarantula," which had been written several years earlier, was published in 1970 after Dylan suddenly informed Macmillan that he was ready to publish it. The book, which was later compared to "Finnegans Wake" and "A Season in Hell," received negative reviews upon its release.
1970: Release of "New Morning"
Bob Dylan continued to delve into country and rural themes with the release of "New Morning" in 1970.
August 1, 1971: Appearance at the Concert for Bangladesh
Bob Dylan made a surprise appearance at George Harrison's Concert for Bangladesh on August 1, 1971. This appearance was notable as Dylan's live appearances had become rare.
November 4, 1971: Recording of "George Jackson"
Bob Dylan recorded the protest song "George Jackson" on November 4, 1971, releasing it a week later.
1971: Dylan's Visit to Israel and Meeting with Rabbi Meir Kahane
Around the time of his 30th birthday in 1971, Bob Dylan made a visit to Israel. During this trip, he met with Rabbi Meir Kahane, known for founding the Jewish Defense League.
1971: Recording Sessions for "Self Portrait" and "New Morning" Albums
Between 1969 to 1971, Dylan had recording sessions for his albums "Self Portrait" and "New Morning".
1972: Support for John Lennon and Yoko Ono
Bob Dylan protested the attempted deportation of John Lennon and Yoko Ono in 1972 by sending a letter to the US Immigration Service in support of them.
1973: Signing with Asylum Records and Release of "Planet Waves"
After his contract with Columbia records expired, Bob Dylan signed with David Geffen's Asylum Records in 1973 and released the album "Planet Waves," which featured his backing group, the Band. This album included two versions of his song, "Forever Young." Columbia Records responded to Dylan's move by releasing "Dylan," a collection of studio outtakes.
1973: Writings and Drawings Publication
In 1973, more of Dylan's artwork became public with the release of his book Writings and Drawings.
January 1974: First Tour in Seven Years and Release of "Before the Flood"
In January 1974, Bob Dylan embarked on his first tour in seven years, backed by the Band. A live double album of the tour, "Before the Flood," was released on Asylum Records.
September 1974: Recording of "Blood on the Tracks"
Bob Dylan recorded the album "Blood on the Tracks" in September 1974, delaying its release and re-recording half of the songs with the help of his brother, David Zimmerman.
1974: Planet Waves Album Cover
Dylan's 1974 album Planet Waves showcased another one of his paintings on the cover.
1975: Baez Joins Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue
Joan Baez joined Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue tour in 1975, marking a renewed collaboration between the two artists.
1975: Official Release of The Basement Tapes
In 1975, Columbia Records officially released a selection of the "Basement Tapes", recordings initially made by Bob Dylan in 1967.
1975: Rolling Thunder Revue
In 1975, Bob Dylan toured with his Rolling Thunder Revue, which served as the backdrop for his film "Renaldo and Clara."
1975: Release of "The Basement Tapes" Album
In 1975, "The Basement Tapes" album was released, containing 24 tracks from the material Dylan and the Band had recorded in 1967.
1975: Rolling Thunder Revue and Release of "Hurricane"
In 1975, Bob Dylan began his Rolling Thunder Revue tour, which ran through late 1975 and early 1976 and featured a large group of performers. This same year, he released the song "Hurricane," which advocated for the innocence of the imprisoned boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter.
1975: Rolling Thunder Revue Tour
Bob Dylan embarked on the Rolling Thunder Revue tour in the fall of 1975, which would later be the subject of a documentary and live album released in 2019.
1975: Release of "Blood on the Tracks"
Bob Dylan's album "Blood on the Tracks" was released in 1975. Initially receiving mixed reviews, the album has since come to be considered one of his best.
1975: Release of "Blood on the Tracks" and "The Basement Tapes"
1975 marked the release of two significant albums by Bob Dylan. "Blood on the Tracks" was widely regarded as a return to form, while "The Basement Tapes," featuring recordings made with the Band, was finally released to the public.
January 1976: Release of "Desire"
Bob Dylan released the album "Desire" in January 1976. Many of this album's songs were influenced by Dylan's new collaborator, Jacques Levy.
November 1976: Appearance at The Band's Farewell Concert
Bob Dylan appeared at The Band's farewell concert in November 1976, alongside Eric Clapton, Muddy Waters, Van Morrison, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell. This performance was filmed by Martin Scorsese and included in his 1978 film "The Last Waltz."
1976: Last Album to Reach Number One
1976 marks the year of Dylan's last album to reach number one in the US charts, before "Modern Times" achieved this feat in August 2006.
June 29, 1977: Divorce of Bob and Sara Dylan
Bob and Sara Dylan's marriage ended in divorce on June 29, 1977.
May 1978: Recording of Street-Legal
In April and May 1978, Dylan recorded the album Street-Legal at Rundown Studios in Santa Monica, California, with the same band and vocalists from his world tour.
September 1978: Las Vegas Tour
In September 1978, when Dylan brought his year-long world tour to the US, the press described his look and sound as a "Las Vegas Tour".
November 1978: Dylan's Contact with the Vineyard School of Discipleship
In November 1978, Bob Dylan, with the guidance of his friend Mary Alice Artes, reached out to the Vineyard School of Discipleship, marking the beginning of his exploration of Christianity.
1978: Release of "Renaldo and Clara"
Bob Dylan's film, "Renaldo and Clara," which mixed concert footage with narrative sequences, was released in 1978 to largely negative reviews.
1978: Release of "Renaldo and Clara", Featuring Baez
In 1978, Bob Dylan's film "Renaldo and Clara", filmed during the Rolling Thunder Revue tour, was released. Notably, Joan Baez played a significant role in the film, portraying the character "The Woman In White".
1978: Sara Dylan in "Renaldo and Clara"
Sara Dylan took on the role of Clara in Bob Dylan's film "Renaldo and Clara", released in 1978.
March 1979: Dylan's Attendance at Vineyard Bible Study Classes
From January to March 1979, Bob Dylan actively participated in Bible study classes held by the Vineyard School of Discipleship in Reseda, California. This indicates a period of religious study and engagement.
1979: Release of Slow Train Coming and Grammy Award
In 1979, Dylan released Slow Train Coming, his first contemporary gospel album, which featured Mark Knopfler on guitar and was produced by Jerry Wexler. Dylan won a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for the song "Gotta Serve Somebody".
1979: Start of Dylan's "Born Again" Christian Period
From 1979 to 1981, Dylan went through what is known as his "Born Again" Christian period, during which he released three albums and held some of the most confrontational concerts of his career.
1980: Beginning of Period Covered in Bootleg Series Vol. 16
Bob Dylan's "Springtime in New York: The Bootleg Series Vol. 16 (1980–1985)" released in September 2021, covers a specific period in Dylan's career, starting in 1980.
1980: Release of Saved and A Musical Retrospective
In late 1980, Dylan briefly played concerts billed as "A Musical Retrospective", restoring popular 1960s songs to the repertoire. His second Christian album, Saved, was released in 1980.
1980: Touring and Declarations of Faith
While touring in late 1979 and early 1980, Dylan chose not to play his older, secular works. Instead, he made declarations of his Christian faith from the stage.
1981: End of Dylan's "Born Again" Christian Period
From 1979 to 1981, Dylan went through what is known as his "Born Again" Christian period, during which he released three albums and held some of the most confrontational concerts of his career.
1981: Stephen Holden's Commentary on Dylan in The New York Times
In 1981, Stephen Holden wrote in The New York Times that "neither age (he's now 40) nor his much-publicized conversion to born-again Christianity has altered his essentially iconoclastic temperament".
1981: Release of Shot of Love
Dylan released his third Christian album, Shot of Love, in 1981. This album included his first secular compositions in over two years, alongside Christian songs.
1983: Release of Infidels and Unreleased Tracks
Dylan released Infidels in 1983, an album produced by and featuring Mark Knopfler on lead guitar. Notably, several songs recorded during the Infidels sessions were left off the album and later released on The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961–1991.
July 1984: Start of Recording for Empire Burlesque
Dylan started recording Empire Burlesque between July 1984 and March 1985.
1984: Dylan and Baez Tour with Carlos Santana
Bob Dylan and Joan Baez embarked on a tour together in 1984, this time accompanied by renowned musician Carlos Santana, showcasing their continued collaborations in the music world.
1984: Dylan Distances Himself from the "Born Again" Label
By 1984, Bob Dylan expressed his distancing from the label "born again" during an interview with Kurt Loder for Rolling Stone magazine, clarifying that it was a media term and not a self-identification.
March 1985: End of Recording for Empire Burlesque
Dylan ended recording Empire Burlesque between July 1984 and March 1985.
July 13, 1985: Live Aid Performance
On July 13, 1985, Dylan performed at the Live Aid concert at JFK Stadium in Philadelphia, backed by Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood.
October 1985: Release of Biograph
In October 1985, Dylan released Biograph, a box set featuring 53 tracks, with 18 of them being previously unreleased.
1985: Shift from Rock and Roll to Folk Music
In a 1985 interview, Bob Dylan explained his transition from a focus on rock and roll music to American folk music.
1985: End of Period Covered in Bootleg Series Vol. 16
September 1985 marks the end of the period covered in "Springtime in New York: The Bootleg Series Vol. 16 (1980–1985)."
January 31, 1986: Birth of Desiree Gabrielle Dennis-Dylan
Desiree Gabrielle Dennis-Dylan, the daughter of Bob Dylan and Carolyn Dennis, was born on January 31, 1986. Their relationship and child remained largely private until later biographical accounts.
April 1986: Collaboration with Kurtis Blow
In April 1986, Dylan ventured into the world of rap music, contributing vocals to the opening verse of "Street Rock" on Kurtis Blow's album, Kingdom Blow.
June 4, 1986: Marriage of Dylan and Carolyn Dennis
Bob Dylan and Carolyn Dennis were married on June 4, 1986. This marriage was kept largely secret until biographical accounts revealed it later.
1986: Tour with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
Dylan toured with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in 1986 and 1987, sharing vocals with Petty on various songs throughout the performances.
1987: Tour with the Grateful Dead and Role in Hearts of Fire
In 1987, Dylan toured with the Grateful Dead and starred in Richard Marquand's movie Hearts of Fire.
1987: Baez Publishes "And A Voice to Sing With"
In 1987, Joan Baez published her second autobiography, "And A Voice to Sing With", which presented a less admiring perspective on Bob Dylan compared to her earlier memoir. This suggests a shift in her views on their relationship over time.
January 1988: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In January 1988, Bob Dylan was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Bruce Springsteen, during his introduction, praised Dylan by saying, 'Bob freed your mind the way Elvis freed your body.' This event highlighted Dylan's significant influence on music and culture.
June 7, 1988: Start of the Never Ending Tour
Dylan began what would be known as the Never Ending Tour on June 7, 1988. This tour featured a backup band that included guitarist G.E. Smith.
December 1988: Death of Roy Orbison and Success of Traveling Wilburys
In December 1988, Bob Dylan experienced both triumph and loss. His supergroup, the Traveling Wilburys, reached number three on the US albums chart with 'Traveling Wilburys Vol. 1,' but the success was overshadowed by the death of bandmate Roy Orbison.
1989: Dylan's Appearance on the Chabad Telethon
Bob Dylan's support for the Chabad Lubavitch movement became visible in 1989 when he participated in their telethon, showcasing his engagement with Jewish religious activities.
1989: Release of Oh Mercy
In 1989, Bob Dylan released 'Oh Mercy,' an album praised for its lyrical depth and cohesive sound. This album was also a focus in his memoir, 'Chronicles: Volume One.'
May 1990: Recording of Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3
In May 1990, despite the loss of Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan and the remaining Traveling Wilburys members recorded their second album, 'Traveling Wilburys Vol. 3.' This period showcased the group's resilience and Dylan's continued collaboration with fellow musicians.
1990: Release of Under the Red Sky
In 1990, Bob Dylan released 'Under the Red Sky,' featuring simpler songs and contributions from notable musicians like George Harrison and Elton John. The album received negative reviews and was dedicated to his daughter, Desiree Gabrielle Dennis-Dylan.
February 1991: Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In February 1991, Bob Dylan received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award from Jack Nicholson. During the ceremony, Dylan performed 'Masters of War' and made a speech referencing a commentary on Psalm 27. The performance was linked to the start of the Gulf War.
1991: Dylan's Second Appearance on the Chabad Telethon
Continuing his support for the Chabad Lubavitch movement, Bob Dylan appeared on their telethon again in 1991, further demonstrating his involvement with Jewish religious events.
1991: Allegations of Heavy Drinking
In 1991, biographers described Bob Dylan as drinking heavily, which reportedly impaired his performances. Dylan dismissed these allegations in a Rolling Stone interview, asserting that drinking did not interfere with his music.
1991: End of Period for Bootleg Series Volumes 1-3
The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3 (Rare & Unreleased) 1961–1991 features tracks from 1961 to 1991, showcasing unreleased material from various points in Dylan's career.
October 1992: Divorce of Dylan and Carolyn Dennis
Bob Dylan and Carolyn Dennis divorced in October 1992.
October 16, 1992: 30th Anniversary Concert Celebration
On October 16, 1992, Bob Dylan's 30th anniversary of his debut album was celebrated with a concert at Madison Square Garden. The event, dubbed 'Bobfest' by Neil Young, featured performances by artists like John Mellencamp and Stevie Wonder, and was recorded as a live album.
1992: Release of Good as I Been to You
In 1992, Bob Dylan released 'Good as I Been to You,' an album covering traditional folk and blues songs. The album, backed solely by his acoustic guitar, was noted for its quiet beauty and featured the song 'Lone Pilgrim.'
1993: Release of World Gone Wrong
In 1993, Bob Dylan released 'World Gone Wrong,' another album covering traditional folk and blues songs. This album, like its predecessor, was praised for its focus on acoustic performance and traditional music.
August 1994: Performance at Woodstock '94
In August 1994, Bob Dylan performed at Woodstock '94. Rolling Stone described his performance as 'triumphant,' marking a significant moment in his career as he revisited his roots with traditional folk and blues songs.
1994: Drawn Blank Publication
Random House published Drawn Blank, a book of Bob Dylan's drawings, in 1994.
1994: Bob Dylan's Artistic Pursuits
Since 1994, Bob Dylan has been actively involved in visual arts, publishing books of paintings and drawings and exhibiting his works in major galleries.
1994: Publication of Art Books
Since 1994, Bob Dylan has published nine books showcasing his paintings and drawings.
1996: Studio Sessions for "Time Out of Mind"
During 1996, Bob Dylan worked on recording sessions for his album "Time Out of Mind", which would later be revisited for his "Bootleg Series Vol. 17".
January 1997: Recording Sessions for New Album
In January 1997, Bob Dylan began recording sessions with Daniel Lanois at Miami's Criteria Studios. During this time, Dylan was hospitalized with a life-threatening heart infection but made a speedy recovery and continued his musical journey.
1997: Release of "Time Out of Mind" and Career Renaissance
Bob Dylan's album "Time Out of Mind" was released in 1997, marking a resurgence in his career and a period of critical acclaim.
1997: Release of "Time Out of Mind"
Bob Dylan's album "Time Out of Mind" was released in 1997.
1997: Kennedy Center Honor
In 1997, US President Bill Clinton presented Bob Dylan with a Kennedy Center Honor, recognizing his significant impact on American culture and music.
1997: Dylan Discusses Faith with Newsweek
In a 1997 interview with David Gates for Newsweek, Bob Dylan discussed his religious beliefs, indicating a complex and evolving relationship with faith.
1998: "The Man in Me" featured in "The Big Lebowski"
Bob Dylan's song "The Man in Me" was prominently featured in the 1998 film "The Big Lebowski."
1998: First International Academic Conference on Bob Dylan
In 1998, Stanford University held the first international academic conference on Bob Dylan in the US, marking the start of serious critical study of his lyrics.
1998: Release of The Bootleg Series Vol. 4
In 1998, Bob Dylan released The Bootleg Series Vol. 4: Bob Dylan Live 1966, featuring a recording of his controversial concert at the Manchester Free Trade Hall on May 17, 1966.
1999: Remastering of Street-Legal
In 1999, a remastered CD release of Street-Legal restored some of the songs' strengths that were lost due to the poor sound and mixing of the original release.
May 2000: Polar Music Prize
In May 2000, Bob Dylan was honored with the Polar Music Prize by Sweden's King Carl XVI.
2000: Oh Mercy and Film Feature
In 2000, Bob Dylan's song 'Most of the Time' from the album 'Oh Mercy' was prominently featured in the film 'High Fidelity.' This highlighted the lasting impact of the album, which was praised for its attentively written lyrics and cohesive sound.
September 11, 2001: Release of 'Love and Theft'
On September 11, 2001, Bob Dylan released 'Love and Theft,' an album that expanded his musical range to include rockabilly, Western swing, jazz, and lounge music. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album.
2001: Publication of "Down the Highway: The Life of Bob Dylan"
Howard Sounes's biography of Bob Dylan, "Down the Highway: The Life of Bob Dylan", was published in 2001, revealing previously private details about Dylan's marriage to Carolyn Dennis and their daughter.
2003: Gotta Serve Somebody: The Gospel Songs of Bob Dylan
In 2003, Bob Dylan revisited his evangelical songs for the project 'Gotta Serve Somebody: The Gospel Songs of Bob Dylan.' He also co-wrote and starred in the film 'Masked & Anonymous,' which received mixed reviews from critics.
December 2004: Publication of Chronicles: Volume One
In December 2004, Bob Dylan published 'Chronicles: Volume One,' the first part of his memoir. The book reached number two on The New York Times' Hardcover Non-Fiction best seller list and was nominated for a National Book Award.
2004: "Like a Rolling Stone" Ranked Greatest Song
Rolling Stone magazine ranked Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" as the greatest song in 2004, reflecting its lasting impact and influence on music.
2004: Victoria's Secret Advertisement
Bob Dylan's commercial profile started to rise in 2004 when he appeared in a television advertisement for Victoria's Secret lingerie.
2004: Explanation of Name Change
During a 2004 interview, Bob Dylan provided insights into his name change, stating "You're born, you know, the wrong names, wrong parents. I mean, that happens. You call yourself what you want to call yourself. This is the land of the free."
2004: "Like a Rolling Stone" Ranked #1 by Rolling Stone Magazine
In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" as the number one song on its list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
2004: Dylan's Interview with 60 Minutes
In a 2004 interview on the program "60 Minutes", Bob Dylan shared his thoughts on faith with interviewer Ed Bradley, making reference to his belief in a higher power and suggesting a connection between his relentless touring and a spiritual commitment.
2004: Harvard Freshman Seminar on Dylan
Richard F. Thomas, a Classics professor at Harvard University, initiated a freshman seminar titled "Dylan" in 2004, aiming to contextualize Dylan's work within both popular culture and classical literary traditions.
2005: Bob Dylan Drive
In 2005, 7th Avenue East in Hibbing, Minnesota, where Dylan lived from ages 6 to 18, was renamed Bob Dylan Drive.
2005: Release of No Direction Home
In 2005, Martin Scorsese's documentary 'No Direction Home' about Bob Dylan was released, covering his career from 1961 to 1966. The film received critical acclaim and won a Peabody Award and a Columbia-duPont Award.
2005: Baez Discusses Dylan in "No Direction Home"
In Martin Scorsese's 2005 documentary "No Direction Home", Joan Baez shared reflections on her relationship with Bob Dylan, offering personal insights into their connection.
May 3, 2006: "Theme Time Radio Hour" Premiere
Bob Dylan began his career as a radio presenter on May 3, 2006 with "Theme Time Radio Hour" on XM Satellite Radio. The show featured diverse music curated around a common theme, such as "Weather", "Weddings", or "Dreams".
August 2006: Modern Times Release
In August 2006, Bob Dylan released the album "Modern Times", which was critically acclaimed and reached number one on the US charts, his first album to do so since 1976.
2006: Bob Dylan Way
In 2006, a cultural pathway called Bob Dylan Way, was inaugurated in Duluth, Minnesota, Dylan's birthplace. It's a 1.8-mile path that connects important cultural and historical sites.
June 2007: Prince of Asturias Award
Bob Dylan received the Prince of Asturias Award in the Arts category in June 2007. The jury hailed him as "a living myth in the history of popular music and a light for a generation that dreamed of changing the world."
October 1, 2007: Dylan 07 Retrospective Release
Columbia Records released a triple CD retrospective of Bob Dylan's entire career, titled "Dylan", on October 1, 2007, marking a significant rise in his commercial profile.
October 2007: Cadillac Escalade Campaign
Bob Dylan participated in a multimedia campaign for the 2008 Cadillac Escalade in October 2007.
2007: Release of I'm Not There
Todd Haynes directed I'm Not There, a film "inspired by the music and many lives of Bob Dylan", released in 2007, featuring six actors portraying different facets of his persona.
2007: The Drawn Blank Series Exhibition
The Kunstsammlungen in Chemnitz, Germany, held the first public exhibition of Bob Dylan's paintings, called The Drawn Blank Series, in 2007. It displayed over 200 watercolors and gouaches based on his original drawings.
October 2008: The Bootleg Series Vol. 8 - Tell Tale Signs Release
October 2008 saw the release of "The Bootleg Series Vol. 8 - Tell Tale Signs", a compilation of Bob Dylan's live performances and outtakes from albums spanning "Oh Mercy" to "Modern Times".
2008: Pulitzer Prize Special Citation
In 2008, Bob Dylan was honored by the Pulitzer Prize Board with a special citation recognizing his significant impact on popular music and American culture, particularly for his poetic lyricism.
2008: Publication of Suze Rotolo's Memoir
In 2008, Suze Rotolo released her memoir, "A Freewheelin' Time", offering insights into her experiences in Greenwich Village during the 1960s and her relationship with Bob Dylan.
2008: Year of Cadillac Escalade Campaign
The Cadillac Escalade multi-media campaign featuring Bob Dylan was for the 2008 model of the vehicle.
2008: Pulitzer Prize Special Citation
The Pulitzer Prize jury awarded Bob Dylan a special citation in 2008 for "his profound impact on popular music and American culture, marked by lyrical compositions of extraordinary poetic power".
April 2009: "Theme Time Radio Hour" Finale
In April 2009, after 100 shows, Bob Dylan's "Theme Time Radio Hour" concluded. The final show's theme was "Goodbye", and he signed off with Woody Guthrie's "So Long, It's Been Good to Know Yuh".
April 28, 2009: Together Through Life Release
Bob Dylan released his 34th studio album, "Together Through Life", on April 28, 2009. It debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, making Dylan, at 67, the oldest artist to achieve this.
October 2009: Christmas in the Heart Release
Bob Dylan released "Christmas in the Heart", an album of Christmas standards, in October 2009. Royalties from the album were donated to charities like Feeding America and Crisis.
2009: Pepsi Super Bowl Ad with will.i.am
In 2009, Bob Dylan appeared with rapper will.i.am in a Pepsi advertisement that debuted during Super Bowl XLIII.
September 2010: The Brazil Series Exhibition
From September 2010 to April 2011, the National Gallery of Denmark exhibited 40 large-scale acrylic paintings by Dylan, known as The Brazil Series.
October 18, 2010: The Witmark Demos and Mono Recordings Release
October 18, 2010, saw the release of "The Bootleg Series Vol. 9: The Witmark Demos", featuring Dylan's early demo recordings, and "Bob Dylan: The Original Mono Recordings", a box set of his first eight albums in their original mono mix.
2010: Joni Mitchell's Criticism
In a 2010 interview with the Los Angeles Times, Joni Mitchell sparked controversy by accusing Bob Dylan of plagiarism and criticizing his vocal style.
April 12, 2011: Bob Dylan in Concert – Brandeis University 1963 Release
On April 12, 2011, Legacy Recordings released "Bob Dylan in Concert – Brandeis University 1963", a recording of Dylan's performance at Brandeis University on May 10, 1963.
July 2011: Gagosian Gallery Representation
In July 2011, Gagosian Gallery, a prominent contemporary art gallery, announced that they would be representing Bob Dylan's paintings.
2011: "Like a Rolling Stone" Remains #1 in Rolling Stone's Updated List
In 2011, Rolling Stone magazine reaffirmed Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" as the number one song on its updated list of "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
2011: "Like a Rolling Stone" Ranked Greatest Song
Reaffirming its enduring impact, Rolling Stone magazine again ranked Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" as the greatest song in 2011.
May 2012: Presidential Medal of Freedom
Bob Dylan received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Barack Obama in May 2012, who acknowledged him as "not a bigger giant in the history of American music."
September 11, 2012: Tempest Release
Bob Dylan released his 35th studio album, "Tempest", on September 11, 2012. The album includes a tribute to John Lennon ("Roll On John") and a 14-minute title track inspired by the sinking of the Titanic.
November 2012: Revisionist Art Exhibition
Dylan's second show at the Gagosian Gallery, titled Revisionist Art, opened in November 2012. The exhibition featured 30 paintings that transformed and satirized popular magazines, including Playboy and Babytalk.
2012: Last Album of Original Material
Before the release of "Rough and Rowdy Ways" in June 2020, Bob Dylan's last album consisting of original songs was released in 2012.
2012: Dylan's Response to Plagiarism Allegations
Bob Dylan addressed the plagiarism allegations, including the use of Henry Timrod's verse in his album Modern Times, in a 2012 Rolling Stone interview with Mikal Gilmore, defending his practice as "part of the tradition."
February 2013: New Orleans Series Exhibition
In February 2013, Dylan showcased the New Orleans Series of paintings at the Palazzo Reale in Milan.
August 2013: Face Value Exhibition
Britain's National Portrait Gallery in London hosted Dylan's first major UK exhibition, Face Value, in August 2013, showcasing 12 pastel portraits.
August 2013: Volume 10 of Dylan's Bootleg Series Released
In August 2013, Volume 10 of Dylan's Bootleg Series, Another Self Portrait (1969–1971), was released. The album contained 35 previously unreleased tracks, including alternative takes and demos from Dylan's 1969–1971 recording sessions during the making of the Self Portrait and New Morning albums.
November 2013: Release of Bob Dylan: Complete Album Collection: Vol. One
Columbia Records released a boxed set containing all 35 Dylan studio albums, six albums of live recordings and a collection of non-album material as Bob Dylan: Complete Album Collection: Vol. One, in November 2013.
November 2013: Légion d'Honneur
Despite initial controversy, Bob Dylan was awarded France's highest honor, the Légion d'Honneur, in November 2013 by the minister of culture, Aurélie Filippetti.
November 2013: Mood Swings Exhibition
The Halcyon Gallery in London presented Mood Swings in November 2013, an exhibition where Dylan displayed seven wrought iron gates he created.
December 2013: Dylan's Stratocaster Auctioned
The Fender Stratocaster played by Bob Dylan at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival was sold for \$965,000 in December 2013, making it the second most expensive guitar ever sold.
June 2014: Handwritten Lyrics Auctioned
Bob Dylan's handwritten lyrics for "Like a Rolling Stone" were auctioned for \$2 million in June 2014, setting a record for a popular music manuscript.
November 2014: Release of "The Lyrics: Since 1962" and "The Bootleg Series Vol. 11: The Basement Tapes Complete"
In November 2014, "The Lyrics: Since 1962" was published. The book offered variant versions of Dylan's songs, sourced from out-takes and live performances. Also, a comprehensive edition of the Basement Tapes, songs recorded by Dylan and the Band in 1967, was released as The Bootleg Series Vol. 11: The Basement Tapes Complete.
February 2015: MusiCares Person of the Year
In February 2015, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences bestowed upon Bob Dylan the MusiCares Person of the Year award, recognizing both his philanthropic work and his artistic contributions.
February 2015: Release of "Shadows in the Night"
In February 2015, Dylan released "Shadows in the Night", featuring ten songs written between 1923 and 1963, which have been described as part of the Great American Songbook.
November 2015: Release of "The Bootleg Series Vol. 12: The Cutting Edge 1965–1966"
In November 2015, "The Bootleg Series Vol. 12: The Cutting Edge 1965–1966" was released, consisting of previously unreleased material from the three albums Dylan recorded between January 1965 and March 1966.
2015: Dylan Mural in Minneapolis
A 160-foot-wide mural of Bob Dylan created by Brazilian street artist Eduardo Kobra was revealed in downtown Minneapolis in 2015.
2015: Ranked First on Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Songwriters
Rolling Stone magazine placed Bob Dylan at the top of their 2015 list of the 100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time, further solidifying his influential legacy.
March 2, 2016: Sale of Dylan's Archive
The sale of Bob Dylan's extensive archive, comprising approximately 6,000 items, to the George Kaiser Family Foundation and the University of Tulsa was announced on March 2, 2016.
October 13, 2016: Nobel Prize in Literature
On October 13, 2016, Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, a controversial choice, "for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition."
November 2016: Release of "The 1966 Live Recordings"
In November 2016, "The 1966 Live Recordings" was released, including every known recording of Dylan's 1966 concert tour.
November 2016: The Beaten Path Exhibition
The Halcyon Gallery hosted an exhibition in November 2016 featuring a collection of drawings, watercolors, and acrylic works by Dylan. The exhibition, titled The Beaten Path, depicted American landscapes and urban scenes inspired by Dylan's travels across the USA.
2016: Nobel Prize in Literature
Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016, a testament to his groundbreaking contributions to songwriting and his creation of new poetic expressions within the American song tradition.
March 2017: Release of "Triplicate"
In March 2017, Dylan released "Triplicate", a triple album of 30 recordings of classic American songs. This marked his 38th studio album.
June 5, 2017: Nobel Lecture Publication
Bob Dylan's Nobel Lecture, reflecting on his award and literary influences, was published on the Nobel Prize website on June 5, 2017.
2017: Premiere of Girl From the North Country
The musical Girl From the North Country, written and directed by Conor McPherson, premiered in London in 2017, using Dylan's songs to narrate Depression-era stories set in Duluth, Minnesota.
April 2018: Contribution to Universal Love EP and Launch of Heaven's Door Whiskey
In April 2018, Bob Dylan contributed to the "Universal Love" EP, a compilation of reimagined wedding songs for the LGBT community. He recorded a version of "She's Funny That Way," changing the pronouns to reflect same-sex couples. This same month, Dylan launched his own whiskey brand, Heaven's Door, offering three varieties: straight rye, straight bourbon, and "double-barreled" whiskey.
October 2018: Mondo Scripto Exhibition
In October 2018, the Halcyon Gallery hosted an exhibition of Dylan's drawings called Mondo Scripto. The artwork featured Dylan's handwritten lyrics with each song accompanied by an illustration.
November 2, 2018: Release of More Blood, More Tracks
On November 2, 2018, Bob Dylan released "More Blood, More Tracks," the 14th volume of his Bootleg Series. The album is composed of all of the recordings Dylan made for his album "Blood On the Tracks." It was available as a single CD and as a six-CD Deluxe Edition.
April 2019: Milestone of 3,000 Shows for the Never Ending Tour
By April 2019, Bob Dylan and his band, which prominently included long-time bassist Tony Garnier and multi-instrumentalist Donnie Herron, had performed over 3,000 shows as part of the Never Ending Tour, a testament to their enduring presence on the music scene.
2019: Release of Rolling Thunder Revue Film and Live Recordings
In 2019, Netflix released the documentary "Rolling Thunder Revue: A Bob Dylan Story by Martin Scorsese," a blend of concert footage, documentary elements, and fictional narratives. A corresponding box set, "The Rolling Thunder Revue: The 1975 Live Recordings," was also released, featuring five complete Dylan performances from the 1975 tour and previously unheard rehearsal recordings.
2019: Use of Autopen
In November 2022, Dylan apologized for using an autopen to sign books and artwork that were later sold as "hand-signed" from 2019 onwards.
2019: Retrospectrum Exhibition
Retrospectrum, the largest retrospective of Dylan's visual art to date, featuring over 250 works in various media, debuted at the Modern Art Museum in Shanghai in 2019.
March 26, 2020: Release of "Murder Most Foul"
Bob Dylan released "Murder Most Foul" on March 26, 2020, a 17-minute song about the assassination of John F. Kennedy. He shared the song on his YouTube channel with a brief message.
April 17, 2020: Release of "I Contain Multitudes"
On April 17, 2020, Bob Dylan released "I Contain Multitudes," a new single with a title taken from Walt Whitman's "Song of Myself."
September 21, 2020: Theme Time Radio Hour Special on Whiskey
On September 21, 2020, Bob Dylan revived his radio show, Theme Time Radio Hour, with a special two-hour episode focused on "Whiskey". This coincided with his launch of Heaven's Door, a whiskey brand he created and actively marketed.
December 2020: Sale of Song Catalog to Universal Music Publishing Group
In December 2020, Bob Dylan sold his entire song catalog to Universal Music Publishing Group. The deal included all rights to over 600 songs, transferring both songwriter income and copyright control to Universal. It was estimated to be worth between $300 million and $400 million.
2020: Release of "Rough and Rowdy Ways"
Bob Dylan released "Rough and Rowdy Ways" in 2020, adding to his collection of critically acclaimed albums in later years.
2020: Release of "Rough and Rowdy Ways"
Bob Dylan's album "Rough and Rowdy Ways" was released in 2020, later serving as the core inspiration for his 2021-2024 world tour.
February 2021: Release of "1970" and Dylan@80 Conference
In February 2021, Columbia Records released "1970," a 3-CD set of recordings from Dylan's "Self Portrait" and "New Morning" sessions. The University of Tulsa Institute for Bob Dylan Studies organized "Dylan@80," a virtual conference to celebrate Dylan's 80th birthday. This three-day event featured over 50 scholars, journalists, and musicians from around the world.
July 2021: Shadow Kingdom Livestream Performance
In July 2021, Bob Dylan presented a 50-minute performance, "Shadow Kingdom: The Early Songs of Bob Dylan," streamed live on the Veeps platform. Filmed in black and white with a film noir aesthetic, Dylan performed 13 songs in a club setting with an audience.
September 2021: Announcement of the "Rough and Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour, 2021–2024"
In September 2021, Bob Dylan's touring company revealed plans for a new series of tours, officially titled "Rough and Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour, 2021–2024". Notably, this tour marked a change in Dylan's approach to setlists, shifting from varied selections to a more consistent repertoire, largely featuring songs from his 2020 album.
November 30, 2021: Retrospectrum Exhibition in Miami
An expanded version of the Retrospectrum exhibition, including a new series of paintings called "Deep Focus" inspired by film imagery, opened at the Frost Art Museum in Miami on November 30, 2021.
2021: Recording of "Blowin' in the Wind" on Ionic Original
Bob Dylan's performance of "Blowin' in the Wind" was recorded in 2021 using the Ionic Original format. This recording was auctioned in July 2022.
May 10, 2022: Opening of the Bob Dylan Center
The Bob Dylan Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, opened on May 10, 2022, to house and display Dylan's vast archive, furthering the study and appreciation of his work.
July 7, 2022: Auction of "Blowin' in the Wind" Ionic Original Recording
On July 7, 2022, an innovative recording of Bob Dylan performing "Blowin' in the Wind" was auctioned at Christie's in London. The 2021 recording, made using a new technology called Ionic Original, was produced by T Bone Burnett and sold for £1,482,000 (approximately $1,769,508).
November 1, 2022: The Philosophy of Modern Song Publication
Bob Dylan's third full-length book, The Philosophy of Modern Song, featuring 66 essays on songs by various artists, was published on November 1, 2022.
December 2022: Dylan Reaffirms Religious Outlook in The Wall Street Journal
In December 2022, Bob Dylan, speaking with Jeff Slate of The Wall Street Journal, reaffirmed his belief in salvation and damnation, further elaborating on his religious convictions and his engagement with scripture.
January 2023: Release of "The Bootleg Series Vol. 17: Fragments – Time Out of Mind Sessions (1996–1997)"
In January 2023, Bob Dylan released a multi-format album titled "The Bootleg Series Vol. 17: Fragments – Time Out of Mind Sessions (1996–1997)". This release included a remix of his 1997 album, aiming to capture a raw sound closer to the original recordings, as well as unreleased outtakes from those studio sessions and a disc of live performances.
June 2023: Release of Shadow Kingdom Soundtrack
In June 2023, the soundtrack to Dylan's "Shadow Kingdom" performance was released on both 2 LP and CD formats.
2023: Ranked Fifteenth on Rolling Stone's Greatest Singers
In 2023, Rolling Stone magazine included Bob Dylan in their list of the Greatest Singers of All Time, placing him fifteenth, acknowledging his unique vocal style and impact.
2023: Release of "Shadow Kingdom"
Bob Dylan released "Shadow Kingdom" in 2023, an album featuring a mellower Americana interpretation of his earlier rock material.
September 17, 2024: Dylan's Performance in the Outlaw Music Festival Tour
On September 17, 2024, Bob Dylan will perform as part of the Outlaw Music Festival Tour, sharing the stage with notable artists such as Willie Nelson.
2024: End of "Rough and Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour"
The "Rough and Rowdy Ways World Wide Tour" is scheduled to end in 2024.
November: Publication of "The Philosophy of Modern Song"
In November 2022, Bob Dylan published "The Philosophy of Modern Song," a collection of 66 essays on songs by other artists. The book received mixed reviews, with praise for its eclectic selection and criticism for its uneven writing style and lack of female songwriters.
November 1: Release of Bootleg Series Vol. 15
On November 1, 2019, "Bob Dylan (featuring Johnny Cash) – Travelin' Thru, 1967–1969: The Bootleg Series Vol. 15" was released. The set includes outtakes from Dylan's albums "John Wesley Harding" and "Nashville Skyline," as well as recordings with Johnny Cash from 1969 and Earl Scruggs from 1970.
September: Release of Bootleg Series Vol. 16
In September 2021, Bob Dylan released "Springtime in New York: The Bootleg Series Vol. 16 (1980–1985)," featuring rehearsals, live performances, outtakes, and alternative takes from the albums "Shot of Love," "Infidels," and "Empire Burlesque."