Bob Dylan is one of the best American songwriters. Rising to fame during the 1960s, it’s hard to find someone who doesn’t know this incredible artist. He was very involved in the Civil Rights and antiwar movements, reflected in his songs of that time. He really became popular though on May 27, 1963. But why? And how? Click through the slideshow to find out.
About Bob Dylan
Before we get into the day Bob Dylan achieved international fame, let’s learn a little bit more about this folk star. Bob Dylan was born on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota by the name of Robert Allen Zimmerman. At only about 20 years old, he moved to New York City to pursue music. He released his debut album in 1961 titled “Bob Dylan.” While it didn’t do great, this didn’t stop him.
Bob Dylan’s First Release
Bob Dylan’s first album was released by Columbia Records and contained folk, blues, and protest music. In this album, he released two original songs, one of which paid respect to Woody Guthrie – “Song to Woody”. The album didn’t grow popular for a few more years later. In 1995, it hit 13 on the UK Top 75 chart.
Why is May 27 an Important Day?
On May 27, 1963, Bob Dylan released his second album, “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan.” This album skyrocketed his career.
The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan
“The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” included 13 songs, 11 of which were original pieces. It was a folk and blues album and started with the song, “Blowin’ in the Wind.” The overall length of the album is 50:04.
Inspiration for The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan
“The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan” played a huge role during the Civil Rights movement as many of the songs on the album were eye-openers. He drew inspiration from his own thoughts, newspaper headlines, and folklore. Many of the songs on this album became anthems for peace during rallies and protests.
The Songs on the Album
- “Blowin’ in the Wind”
- “Girl from the North Country”
- “Masters of War”
- “Down the Highway”
- “Bob Dylan’s Blues”
- “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall”
- “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right”
- “Bob Dylan’s Dream”
- “Oxford Town”
- “Talkin’ World War III Blues”
- “Corrina, Corrina”
- “Honey, Just Allow Me One More Chance”
- “I Shall Be Free”
Charts
1963 US Billboard 200 = Position 22
1965 UK Albums Chart = Position 1
Other Popular Bob Dylan Albums
Bob Dylan’s musical talents and successes didn’t end with his second album. He’s produced many booming works like “Self Portrait,” “John Wesley Harding,” and “Bringing It All Back Home.”
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Michael Ochs Archives / Michael Ochs Archives via Getty Images.