February 3, 2023 —– Chart #181
Hey folks, welcome to another edition of Chart of the Week. “My Back Pages” is a song written by Bob Dylan and released in 1964 on his album “Another Side of Bob Dylan.” The song is a reflection on Dylan’s past and his changing views on politics, love, and life. It has been described as a turning point in Dylan’s career, marking the transition from his early protest songs to a more introspective and personal style of songwriting. The song’s introspective and personal nature set it apart from Dylan’s earlier works and showcased his developing songwriting style.
The song was commercially successful, reaching #30 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has since become one of Dylan’s most enduring works. In a 2004 interview, Dylan spoke about the meaning behind the song, saying “It was about looking back, that’s all. Just looking back.”
The song has been covered by a number of other artists, including The Byrds, who released a hit version of the song in 1965 that reached #1 on the charts. Other notable covers have been done by Jimi Hendrix, The Crickets, and Roger McGuinn. These covers demonstrate the song’s timelessness and versatility, as each artist brings their own unique interpretation to the song.
The original recording of “My Back Pages” features Dylan on vocals and guitar, backed by Al Kooper on organ, Harvey Brooks on bass, and Bobby Gregg on drums. Kooper, Brooks, and Gregg were members of Dylan’s touring band at the time, and their contributions to the recording helped to create a tight, cohesive sound that supports Dylan’s introspective lyrics.
Musically, “My Back Pages” is characterized by its intricate chord structure, which includes elements of folk, rock, and classical music. The song’s use of a descending chord progression in the chorus creates a sense of nostalgia and regret, complementing the theme of looking back on one’s past. Dylan’s fingerpicking style on the acoustic guitar adds to the song’s folksy feel, while the addition of organ and drums gives the song a rock-infused energy.
You might find this one more familiar . . . . The Byrds: https://youtu.be/1G9TJk853ps
“My Back Pages” is a seminal song in Bob Dylan’s discography that reflects on his past and the changes he experienced throughout his life and career. The song’s commercial success and enduring popularity, combined with its timeless themes and intricate musical structure, have cemented its place as one of Dylan’s most important works. I hope you enjoy playing this one.
Keep rockin my friends,
Stan Bradshaw