Dylan, Still Relevant?
After six decades of albums, Bob Dylan is arguably the most prolific artist still around from the 1960s. Although his family members don’t speak highly of him, nobody can deny that he is one of the most influential singer-songerwriters of all time. From Blood on the Tracks to Nashville Skyline to the Wonder Boys Soundtrack, Dylan has proven that he’s a talent that covers multiple decades and generations.
All this being said, one has to wonder if he is jeopardizing his career by churning out albums in the 21st century. Although he did showcase his talent when Wonder Boys came out, the majority of his work post-1990 has been poorly received. Although I haven’t heard his new album yet, I have a suspicion that it might be along the lines of his recent Christmas albums; in essence, ruining his legacy.
Personally, I prefer his work from the 60s even before he was famous; this work was truly legendary, as it changed the shape of folk forever. I don’t listen to folk today, but I would never even think of listening to folk music had it not been for Bob Dylan’s passion – or at least the passion he used to have.
There is no denying that Dylan is a forefather of folk-rock, and a true legendary figure in rock and roll; however, I would argue that by churning out albums he is jeopardizing his legacy.
Although Dylan performs constantly, I don’t believe that his heart is in it anymore. At his most recent tours, he is known to play an insanely short set and only play one encore tune. I am a huge Dylan fan, as I love Highway 61 Revisited and Blonde on Blonde, but I have a feeling that his passion for his for work is waning.