#AtoZ Dylan – “I” is for I Shall be Released

~ Martha Reynolds

“All I can do is be me, whoever that is.” ~ Bob Dylan

Dylan young

 

Written in 1967, “I Shall be Released” shows a heavy gospel influence, and whether you interpret the lyrics literally (as a prisoner about to be released from prison) or metaphorical (one’s own redemption), this song ranks up with Dylan’s greatest.

Click HERE for a link to the lyrics.

“I Shall be Released” has been covered widely, by Joe Cocker, Ricky Nelson, Aaron Neville, among many others. For me, Bette Midler’s version on her album The Divine Miss M is goosebump-worthy.

For a visual, I’m going with Chrissie Hynde:

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Published by Martha Reynolds

I am the bestselling author of nine novels, including the Swiss Chocolate trilogy and VILLA DEL SOL, which won the 2018 Book Award in Literary Fiction from the Independent Publishers of New England. My newest series includes the books A JINGLE VALLEY WEDDING, APRIL IN GALWAY, and ALL’S WELL IN JINGLE VALLEY. Find my books online at Amazon, locally at Stillwater Books (Pawtucket, Rhode Island) and Ink Fish Books (Warren, Rhode Island).

4 thoughts on “#AtoZ Dylan – “I” is for I Shall be Released”

  1. Martha, I always thought Chrissie Hynde’s was one of the best, but the version from Amnesty International- The Secret Policeman’s Other Ball is also great. Now? I can’t wait to go and check out Bette Midler’s version!

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

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