Bob Dylan’s catalog has been covered countless times, with artists from every corner of the music world taking on his legendary songs. It’s not surprising, given the sheer volume of timeless tracks he’s written.
With so many covers out there, it’s easy to wonder which one Dylan himself holds dear. After all, his music has inspired countless renditions, each bringing a different flavor to his words.
Finally, Dylan has shared his favorite, and it comes from a name you might not expect: Johnny Rivers.
Which One Stands Out Among Dylan’s Endless Covers?
Bob Dylan’s songs have been covered more times than you can count. His timeless anthems have made nearly every musician take a shot at covering a Dylan track.
With so many renditions out there, it’s almost as if Dylan’s music has become its own institution. There’s no shortage of “six-string prayers” honoring his iconic work.
But out of all these versions, which one does Dylan himself favor? The answer may surprise you.
The Influence of a Legend
Few artists have left their mark on as many musicians as Bob Dylan. With a career spanning nearly six decades, his poetic lyrics and powerful songwriting have inspired countless artists to follow a more authentic creative path.
Dylan’s ability to craft captivating melodies and deliver moving performances has solidified his status as a music icon. His influence is undeniable, no matter who you ask.
This influence is most evident in the vast array of covers of his songs. Some of the greatest musicians of our time have paid tribute to Dylan with their own renditions of his legendary tracks.
A Legacy That Shaped Legends
Bob Dylan’s influence stretches far and wide, touching the likes of David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix. These iconic artists, and many more, owe part of their creative spark to Dylan’s unmatched lyrical power.
Unlike others, Dylan’s career was never driven by commercial trends or corporate pressure. His authenticity and moral compass set him apart, making him a true pioneer.
In his memoir Chronicles One, Dylan singles out a favorite cover of his work. It’s not a nod to a celebrity friend or an obscure track—it’s a cover so brilliant that even Dylan himself couldn’t ignore its impact.
Johnny Rivers’ Take on “Positively 4th Street”
The Bard revealed his favorite cover, and it’s Johnny Rivers’ version of “Positively 4th Street.” Dylan praised it, saying, “Of all the versions of my recorded songs, the Johnny Rivers one was my favorite.”
Dylan felt a connection with Rivers, noting they were cut from the same musical cloth. He admired how Rivers captured the spirit of the song like no other artist had.
In fact, Dylan admitted he liked Rivers’ version better than his own. He felt Rivers nailed the attitude and melody, even surpassing what Dylan originally put into it.
The Story Behind “Positively 4th Street”
“Positively 4th Street” may have ended up as a B-side, but it’s one of Bob Dylan’s finest tracks. Originally meant to be an A-side, it was bumped by mistake, giving it a unique spot in his catalog.
Despite this mix-up, the song remains one of Dylan’s most cherished works, even hailed as the best B-side ever. Its biting lyrics and timeless sound continue to resonate with fans.
Johnny Rivers, known for his folk and blues-rock hits in the ’60s and ’70s, took on the song with remarkable flair. Rivers had worked alongside music legends like Elvis Presley, but his rendition of this Dylan classic truly stood out.
Johnny Rivers’ Take on Dylan’s Heartbreak Anthem
Johnny Rivers released his version of Bob Dylan’s breakup anthem “Positively 4th Street” in June 1968, three years after Dylan first debuted it during his electric Judas phase. Rivers included the track on his underrated solo album Realization, which eventually caught Dylan’s attention and praise.
The song is often considered the twin to “Like A Rolling Stone,” filled with the same biting wit and emotional punch. Rivers’ rendition keeps the spirit alive, with a smoother organ sound adding a unique touch.
The final verse, one of the best breakup lines ever written, seals the song’s greatness. The powerful words, “I wish that for just one time you could stand inside my shoes,” leave a lasting impact, marking this track as one of Dylan’s finest.
Dylan’s Fury in a Masterful Take
Rivers’ version of “Positively 4th Street” captures the same biting contrast Dylan delivered. His honeyed acoustic intro sets a calm tone, masking the bitterness that’s about to unfold in the lyrics.
As the song progresses, Rivers doesn’t shy away from the scorn in Dylan’s words. He skillfully handles the emotional weight, blending sweetness with simmering anger.
By the time the chorus hits, Rivers turns Dylan’s wrath into his own, creating a beautifully crafted and subtle “goodbye” that earns every bit of praise from the legend himself.