The Most Popular Bob Dylan Song, Ranked

Choose the song you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 06:31
Bob Dylan’s profound impact on music, with his exceptional songwriting and distinctive voice, leaves fans often debating which of his tracks stands out as the most influential. It's a testament to his wide-ranging discography that listeners from different generations find themselves drawn to different tunes. Having a clear ranking helps not only in celebrating Dylan's work but also provides new listeners a starting point to engage with his music. This live ranking collects opinions from all over the world, reflecting how diverse tastes come together in appreciation of a single artist. By participating and casting your vote, you contribute to a dynamic, real-time reflection of which songs resonate the most today. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to his music, your input is valuable in shaping this ongoing conversation about Bob Dylan's enduring legacy.

What Is the Most Popular Bob Dylan Song?

  1. 1
    50
    votes
    Like a Rolling Stone
    Columbia Records · Public domain
    This song is often considered Dylan's masterpiece and has been called one of the greatest songs ever recorded. Its lyrics and melody are both iconic and it has been covered by countless artists.
  2. 2
    27
    votes
    This song is perhaps Dylan's most famous protest song and has become an anthem for the civil rights movement. Its simple melody and powerful lyrics have made it a classic.
  3. 3
    27
    votes
    Another iconic protest song, this one has been used in numerous films and TV shows, as well as political campaigns. Its message of change and social justice still resonates today.
    The Times They Are A-Changin' is a folk song that was written and performed by Bob Dylan. It was released as the title track of his 1964 album. The song served as a social commentary on the rapidly changing times during the 1960s, specifically addressing issues of civil rights, social unrest, and political activism.
    • Genre: Folk
    • Release Year: 1964
    • Album: The Times They Are A-Changin'
    • Lyrics: Critically acclaimed, focusing on social change and resistance
    • Length: 3 minutes and 15 seconds
  4. 4
    13
    votes

    Tangled Up in Blue

    Bob Dylan
    This song is often considered one of Dylan's greatest works, with its complex lyrics and storytelling. It has been covered by many artists and is a fan favorite.
    Tangled Up in Blue is a folk rock song by Bob Dylan. It was released in 1975 as the opening track of his album 'Blood on the Tracks'. The song tells a complex story of love, loss, and introspection, with Dylan utilizing a non-linear narrative structure. It is widely regarded as one of Dylan's greatest compositions, showcasing his lyrical prowess and poetic storytelling.
    • Year of Release: 1975
    • Album: Blood on the Tracks
    • Genre: Folk Rock
    • Track Number: 1
    • Song Length: 6:34
  5. 5
    21
    votes
    This song has become a classic rock staple and has been covered by countless artists. Its simple lyrics and melody make it a powerful and emotional song.
    Knockin' on Heaven's Door in other rankings
  6. 6
    22
    votes

    Mr. Tambourine Man

    Bob Dylan
    This song was a hit for The Byrds and has become one of Dylan's most popular songs. Its dreamlike lyrics and melody make it a favorite among fans.
    Mr. Tambourine Man is a folk rock song written and performed by Bob Dylan. It was first released in 1965 as a single and later included in Dylan's album 'Bringing It All Back Home'. The song is known for its lyrical depth and poetic imagery, which explores themes of escapism and the power of music to transport the listener. With its catchy melody and vivid storytelling, 'Mr. Tambourine Man' became an instant hit and is often considered one of Dylan's most iconic and influential songs.
    • Genre: Folk rock
    • Release Year: 1965
    • Album: Bringing It All Back Home
    • Length: 5 minutes and 29 seconds
    • Lyricist: Bob Dylan
  7. 7
    9
    votes
    This song has been covered by numerous artists, including Jimi Hendrix, who turned it into a rock classic. Its lyrics and melody are both haunting and powerful.
    All Along the Watchtower is a song written and originally recorded by Bob Dylan. It was released in 1967 as part of his album 'John Wesley Harding'. The song later gained widespread recognition and popularity when it was covered by Jimi Hendrix in 1968. It has since become one of Dylan's most famous and influential compositions, often hailed as a masterpiece of songwriting and musicianship.
    • Release year: 1967
    • Album: John Wesley Harding
    • Cover version artist: Jimi Hendrix
    • Cover version year: 1968
    • Genre: Folk rock
    All Along the Watchtower in other rankings
  8. 8
    7
    votes
    This song is a classic breakup song, with its bittersweet lyrics and melody. It has been covered by many artists and is a fan favorite.
    Don't Think Twice, It's All Right is a folk song written by Bob Dylan in 1962. It is known for its melancholic yet resilient lyrics, expressing a farewell and acceptance of a failed relationship. The song showcases Dylan's trademark lyrical style and storytelling ability, while also featured his distinctive acoustic guitar playing.
    • Genre: Folk
    • Year: 1962
    • Album: The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan
    • Length: 3:40
    • Recording Date: August 1962
  9. 9
    7
    votes

    Forever Young

    Teddy Park
    This song has become an anthem for generations of fans, with its message of hope and optimism. It has been covered by countless artists and is often played at graduations and other milestone events.
    Forever Young is a song by the South Korean girl group Blackpink. It was released on June 15, 2018, as the fifth track from their debut EP, Square Up. The song was written by Teddy Park and produced by Teddy and R.Tee. Forever Young is a vibrant and high-energy track with a combination of EDM, pop, and hip-hop elements. It showcases Blackpink's powerful vocals and dynamic rap verses, along with catchy hooks and a catchy chorus.
    • Release Date: June 15, 2018
    • Album: Square Up
    • Genre: K-pop, EDM, Hip hop
    • Songwriter: Teddy Park
    • Producers: Teddy Park, R.Tee
  10. 10
    6
    votes

    Just Like a Woman

    Bob Dylan
    This song features some of Dylan's most poetic lyrics and has been covered by many artists. Its melody and lyrics are both haunting and beautiful.
    Just Like a Woman is a famous song by Bob Dylan, featured on his 1966 album, Blonde on Blonde. It is often regarded as one of Dylan's most popular and enduring compositions. The song is a poignant and introspective portrayal of a complex relationship with a woman. It showcases Dylan's exceptional storytelling abilities and his unique blend of folk, rock, and blues influences.
    • Album: Blonde on Blonde
    • Year: 1966
    • Genre: Folk rock, Blues rock
    • Length: 4:52
    • Lyrics by: Bob Dylan

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Ranking factors for popular song

  1. Commercial success
    Analyze the sales figures, chart performance, and certifications of the song. A popular Bob Dylan song will likely have strong sales numbers and high chart positions.
  2. Critical acclaim
    Consider the reviews and ratings that the song has received from music critics and publications. A popular Bob Dylan song would have received widespread critical praise.
  3. Influence and legacy
    Evaluate the impact of the song on the music industry and popular culture. A popular Bob Dylan song would be one that has left a lasting mark on music history and is frequently cited as an influential work.
  4. Radio airplay
    Look into the frequency with which the song was played on the radio throughout the years. A popular song would have a history of extensive radio airplay.
  5. Streaming numbers
    Consider the number of streams the song has received on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube. A popular song will have a large number of streams and views.
  6. Awards and nominations
    Check if the song has received any prestigious music awards or nominations, such as Grammy Awards or other music industry accolades.
  7. Live performances and concert attendance
    Look at the frequency with which the song has been performed live by Bob Dylan and how well the performances were received by audiences. A popular song would typically be a staple of his concerts.
  8. Covers and adaptations
    Consider the number of cover versions and adaptations by other artists, as well as their popularity. A popular Bob Dylan song would have inspired many covers or reinterpretations.
  9. Public opinion
    Analyze the general perception and opinions of the song among fans and the wider public. A popular song would be well-liked and frequently discussed among his fanbase.
  10. Timelessness
    Evaluate the song's ability to remain relevant and popular across different time periods and generations. A popular Bob Dylan song would be able to transcend trends and continue to resonate with listeners.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Bob Dylan song. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or song is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2177 views
  • 187 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each song once every 24 hours. The rank of each song is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular bob dylan song

Bob Dylan is one of the most iconic singer-songwriters of all time, known for his poetic lyrics and distinctive voice. With a career spanning over six decades, Dylan has amassed a vast catalog of music that has resonated with fans around the world. From protest songs to love ballads, his music has touched on a wide range of topics and emotions. In this article, we'll dive into the question of what is the most popular Bob Dylan song, and explore some of the factors that have contributed to his enduring popularity. Whether you're a die-hard Dylan fan or simply curious about his music, this is a topic that is sure to spark some lively discussion.

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