Mr. Tambourine Man – Bob Dylan

About the song

Bob Dylan’s iconic song, “Mr. Tambourine Man,” is a lyrical masterpiece that has captivated audiences for decades. Released in 1965 as the opening track of his album Bringing It All Back Home, the song quickly became a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and leaving an indelible mark on popular music.

The song’s popularity is undeniable, as evidenced by its numerous cover versions and enduring appeal. Artists from The Byrds to Stevie Wonder have offered their unique interpretations of this timeless ballad. The Byrds’ rendition, in particular, played a pivotal role in popularizing the folk rock genre and introducing Dylan’s music to a wider audience.

“Mr. Tambourine Man” is a song that invites the listener on a surreal and introspective journey. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and cryptic symbolism, have sparked endless debate and interpretation. Is the titular character a guide, a muse, or perhaps a manifestation of the singer’s own subconscious? The song’s open-ended nature allows listeners to project their own experiences and desires onto the narrative.

The song’s enduring appeal lies not only in its lyrical depth but also in its infectious melody. The bright, expansive tune provides a perfect backdrop for Dylan’s evocative storytelling. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless quality and its ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

Whether you’re a longtime Dylan fan or discovering his music for the first time, “Mr. Tambourine Man” is a song that deserves a place in your musical library. Its haunting beauty, enigmatic lyrics, and enduring influence make it a true masterpiece of popular music.

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Lyrics

Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle mornin’ I’ll come followin’ you

Though I know that evening’s empire has returned into sand
Vanished from my hand
Left me blindly here to stand, but still not sleeping
My weariness amazes me, I’m branded on my feet
I have no one to meet
And the ancient empty street’s too dead for dreaming

Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle mornin’ I’ll come followin’ you

Take me on a trip upon your magic swirlin’ ship
My senses have been stripped
My hands can’t feel to grip
My toes too numb to step
Wait only for my boot heels to be wandering

I’m ready to go anywhere
I’m ready for to fade
Into my own parade
Cast your dancing spell my way
I promise to go under it

Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle mornin’ I’ll come followin’ you

Though you might hear laughing, spinning
Swinging madly across the sun
It’s not aimed at anyone
It’s just escaping on the run
And but for the sky, there are no fences facing

And if you hear vague traces of skipping reels of rhyme
To your tambourine in time
It’s just a ragged clown behind
I wouldn’t pay it any mind
It’s just a shadow you’re seeing, that he’s chasing

Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle mornin’ I’ll come followin’ you

Then take me disappearing through the smoke rings of my mind
Down the foggy ruins of time
Far past the frozen leaves
The haunted, frightened trees
Out to the windy beach
Far from the twisted reach of crazy sorrow

Yes, to dance beneath the diamond sky
With one hand waving free
Silhouetted by the sea
Circled by the circus sands
With all memory and fate, driven deep beneath the waves
Let me forget about today until tomorrow

Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle mornin’ I’ll come followin’ you