About the Song
“Blowin’ in the Wind” by Bob Dylan stands as an anthem of the turbulent 1960s, a time of social upheaval, civil rights movements, and a questioning of authority. Released in 1963 on Dylan’s album “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan,” this song quickly became an emblem of the era’s spirit and ideals.
At its core, “Blowin’ in the Wind” is a simple yet profound meditation on the universal themes of peace, freedom, and justice. Through a series of rhetorical questions, Dylan challenges listeners to confront the injustices of the world and to consider their own role in bringing about change. The refrain, “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,” evokes a sense of searching, of seeking answers in the face of uncertainty.
Musically, the song is deceptively simple. Accompanied by little more than Dylan’s acoustic guitar and harmonica, “Blowin’ in the Wind” has a stripped-down, folk-inspired sound that allows the lyrics to take center stage. Dylan’s voice, raw and emotive, carries the weight of the song’s message, conveying a sense of urgency and conviction.
What sets “Blowin’ in the Wind” apart is its ability to transcend its historical context and speak to audiences across generations. Its message of social justice and equality remains as relevant today as it did over half a century ago. The song has been covered by countless artists, from folk singers to rock bands to gospel choirs, each adding their own interpretation to its timeless lyrics.
In the decades since its release, “Blowin’ in the Wind” has become more than just a song; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of music to inspire change. As Dylan himself once said, “Songs are meant to be sung. That’s all, really.” And with “Blowin’ in the Wind,” he gave voice to a generation, sparking a movement that continues to resonate to this day.
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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 fly,
before she sleeps in the sand?
And how many times must a cannon ball fly,
before they’re forever banned?
The answer my friend is blowing in the wind,
the answer is blowing in the wind.
How many years can a mountain exist,
before it is washed to the sea?
How many years can some people exist,
before they’re allowed to be free?
And how many times can a man turn his head,
and pretend that he just doesn’t see?
The answer my friend is blowing in the wind,
the answer is blowing in the wind.
How many times must a man look up,
before he sees the sky?
And how many ears must one man have,
before he can hear people cry ?
And how many deaths will it take till we know,
that too many people have died?
The answer my friend is blowing in the wind,
the answer is blowing in the wind.
The answer my friend is blowing in the wind,
the answer is blowing in the wind.
(Fading out)