Bob Dylan: nothing but mystery (Inspirations)

Part of the Inspirations series of short books introducing big characters.

Bob Dylan is the greatest popular songwriter of the second half of the 20th century. He reinvented lyric writing in popular song. He helped popularise folk music for a new generation. He was a leading light of the American civil rights movement, writing many of its most enduring anthems. He was a pioneer of folk-rock and country-rock. He is the ultimate example of the popular recording artist who follows his moods in the face of fierce opposition from fans and critics. Yet, so cloaked in mystery has his long career been, the question remains - who is Bob Dylan?

'Bob Dylan did what very, very few singers ever do. He changed popular singing. And we have been living in a world shaped by Dylan's singing ever since.' Bono

'Bob Dylan is the master. If I'd like to be anyone, it's him. And he's a great writer, true to his music and done what he feels is the right thing to do for years and years and years. He's great. He's the one I look to.' Neil Young

'I think Bob Dylan is a genius and a poet. I admire his spirit and his music.' Paul McCartney

'Bob freed your mind the way Elvis freed your body. To this day, wherever great rock music is being made, there is the shadow of Bob Dylan.' Bruce Springsteen

'I've never bought a Dylan record. A singing poet? It just bores me to tears. If I had ten Dylans in the final of American Idol, we would not be getting 30 million viewers a week. I don't believe the Bob Dylans of this world would make American Idol a better show.' Simon Cowell