Bob Dylan - Song To Woody Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is 'Song To Woody' by Bob Dylan written about?

   'Song To Woody' is written as a tribute to Woody Guthrie, an influential American folk musician who greatly inspired Bob Dylan. It expresses Dylan's admiration and appreciation for Guthrie's contributions to folk music and his impact on society.

2. When was 'Song To Woody' released?

   'Song To Woody' was released in 1962 on Bob Dylan's debut album, also titled 'Bob Dylan'.

3. What inspired Bob Dylan to write 'Song To Woody'?

   Bob Dylan was inspired to write 'Song To Woody' after discovering Guthrie's autobiography in 1960. This book deeply influenced him, leading him to seek out Guthrie and eventually meet him in January 1961. The song reflects the profound impact Guthrie had on Dylan's songwriting and life.

4. Which other musicians are mentioned in 'Song To Woody'?

   'Song To Woody' pays tribute not only to Woody Guthrie but also mentions other folk contemporaries such as Cisco Houston, Sonny Terry, and Lead Belly, acknowledging their contributions to the folk music scene.

5. Has Bob Dylan performed 'Song To Woody' live?

   Yes, Bob Dylan has performed 'Song To Woody' live on several occasions. Notably, he performed it solo at a star-studded concert in his honor at Madison Square Garden in October 1993. A live version recorded at Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium on March 16, 2000, was also released.

6. How does 'Song To Woody' relate to other works by Bob Dylan?

   'Song To Woody' is one of the two original compositions on Dylan's debut album. It uses the melody from Guthrie's song '1913 Massacre'. The song is central to Daniel Wolff’s book 'Grown-Up Anger', which explores connections between this song, labor history, and more.