About the song
Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a timeless anthem that has resonated with generations. Released in 1963 as part of his seminal album The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, the track quickly became a rallying cry for those seeking peace, freedom, and justice.
Dylan’s poetic lyrics, filled with rhetorical questions, invite listeners to contemplate the fundamental mysteries of life and society. The refrain, “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,” has become a symbol of both the elusive nature of truth and the enduring hope that answers can be found. The song’s ambiguous nature has sparked countless interpretations, making it a subject of ongoing debate and discussion.
While the song’s impact was immediate, its popularity and influence have only grown over time. In 1994, “Blowin’ in the Wind” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, a testament to its enduring significance. And in 2004, Rolling Stone magazine ranked it at number 14 on their list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time,” solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic rock.
Perhaps the most iconic version of “Blowin’ in the Wind” is the cover by Peter, Paul, and Mary. Released in 1963, their rendition became a massive commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. The trio’s harmonies and heartfelt delivery added a new dimension to the song, making it a beloved anthem for a generation.
In the decades since its release, “Blowin’ in the Wind” has been covered by countless artists, from Joan Baez to Jimi Hendrix to The Beatles. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transcend time and place, speaking to the universal human longing for peace, justice, and understanding. Whether you’re a seasoned music fan or a newcomer to Dylan’s work, “Blowin’ in the Wind” is a song that deserves to be heard and appreciated.
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Lyrics
How many roads must a man walk down
Before you call him a man?
How many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand?
Yes, and how many times must the cannonballs fly
Before they’re forever banned?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind
Yes, and how many years must a mountain exist
Before it is washed to the sea?
And how many years can some people exist
Before they’re allowed to be free?
Yes, and how many times can a man turn his head
And pretend that he just doesn’t see?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind
Yes, and how many times must a man look up
Before he can see the sky?
And how many ears must one man have
Before he can hear people cry?
Yes, and how many deaths will it take ’til he knows
That too many people have died?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind