11 Underrated Bob Dylan Songs: Dylan’s Hidden Gems

Hey there, music enthusiasts and fellow DJs! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, and today I’m thrilled to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart: the genius of Bob Dylan.

As a DJ and a voracious music fan, I’ve always found Dylan’s work to be a treasure trove of lyrical brilliance and melodic creativity. However, some of his songs, though equally brilliant, have flown under the radar. That’s why I’ve decided to put together a list of 11 underrated Bob Dylan songs.

These are the gems that don’t always make it to the top of the charts but deserve just as much recognition for their poetic depth and musical innovation. Whether you’re a lifelong Dylan fan or just getting acquainted with his vast discography, this list is sure to add some hidden masterpieces to your playlist.

So, let’s dive in and explore the lesser-known side of Dylan’s musical genius!

Here are the underrated Bob Dylan songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Bob Dylan Songs

Underrated Bob Dylan songs in a list format:

1. “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” (from “John Wesley Harding”, 1967, Columbia Records)

This charming and laid-back track from the album “John Wesley Harding” is a standout for its soothing melody and tender lyrics. Released in 1967 under Columbia Records, it marks a shift from Dylan’s earlier, more politically charged material. “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” is a cozy, country-tinged tune that showcases Dylan’s softer side. Its simplicity and warmth make it a hidden treasure, contrasting the more complex narratives he’s known for. The song’s gentle harmonies and unassuming charm are why it makes this list.

2. “Dear Landlord” (from “John Wesley Harding”, 1967, Columbia Records)

“Dear Landlord,” also from the “John Wesley Harding” album, is an often overlooked track. Dylan’s songwriting prowess shines here, with lyrics that resonate with themes of fairness and understanding. Released in 1967 by Columbia Records, this song’s bluesy feel and soulful delivery offer a deeper look into Dylan’s diverse musical range. It stands out for its poignant lyrics and the raw emotion that Dylan conveys, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate his lyrical genius.

3. “Most Likely You Go Your Way and I’ll Go Mine” (from “Blonde on Blonde”, 1966, Columbia Records)

This track from “Blonde on Blonde” is a vibrant, upbeat song that demonstrates Dylan’s ability to blend rock and blues seamlessly. Released in 1966 by Columbia Records, it’s a testament to his versatility as a musician and a songwriter. The song’s energetic rhythm and witty lyrics make it a standout track, yet it often gets overshadowed by other hits from the album. It’s chosen for this list because it encapsulates Dylan’s playful side, a quality that enriches his extensive catalog.

4. “Spanish Harlem Incident” (from “Another Side of Bob Dylan”, 1964, Columbia Records)

From the 1964 album “Another Side of Bob Dylan,” this song is a lyrical masterpiece. Released under Columbia Records, it showcases Dylan’s poetic flair, with vivid imagery and a haunting melody. The song’s romantic and mysterious tone sets it apart from his more direct protest songs, revealing a different aspect of Dylan’s songwriting. Its underrated status is precisely why it deserves more attention – it’s a song that transports the listener to another place and time.

5. “One More Night” (from “Nashville Skyline”, 1969, Columbia Records)

“Nashville Skyline,” released in 1969, features this beautiful, melancholic song. Under Columbia Records, Dylan explores a more country-influenced sound, and “One More Night” is a perfect example of this shift. The song’s simplicity in lyrics and melody is its strength, offering a heartfelt and sincere expression of longing. This track is a hidden gem for its ability to convey deep emotions in such a straightforward manner, a testament to Dylan’s versatility.

6. “Isis” (from “Desire”, 1976, Columbia Records)

“Isis,” from the 1976 album “Desire,” is a storytelling masterpiece. Released by Columbia Records, it’s a vivid narrative set to a dynamic melody that captures the listener’s imagination. The song’s epic feel and dramatic storytelling showcase a different aspect of Dylan’s songwriting. It’s chosen for its adventurous spirit and cinematic quality, making it a standout track that often doesn’t receive the recognition it deserves.

7. “You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” (from “Blood on the Tracks”, 1975, Columbia Records)

This track from the acclaimed “Blood on the Tracks” album, released in 1975, is a poignant and heartfelt song. Its relatable lyrics about love and loss, combined with a melodic, folk-country blend, exemplify Dylan’s skill in creating deeply personal and universally appealing music. The song’s emotional depth and catchy tune make it an underrated highlight in Dylan’s discography.

8. “Buckets of Rain” (from “Blood on the Tracks”, 1975, Columbia Records)

Also from “Blood on the Tracks,” “Buckets of Rain” is a gentle, reflective song that often gets overlooked. Its introspective lyrics and simple, melodic structure offer a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The song’s understated beauty lies in its ability to convey complex emotions in a subtle way, making it a hidden jewel in Dylan’s collection.

9. “Percy’s Song” (from “Biograph”, 1985, Columbia Records)

Featured on the “Biograph” compilation album, released in 1985, “Percy’s Song” is a narrative-driven piece that tells a compelling story. Dylan’s storytelling abilities are on full display here, with a melody that enhances the song’s narrative arc. This song is a testament to Dylan’s gift for weaving intricate tales into his music, making it a must-listen for fans of his narrative style.

10. “Changing of the Guards” (from “Street Legal”, 1978, Columbia Records)

From the 1978 album “Street Legal,” this song is an epic in its own right. The rich imagery and complex musical arrangement set it apart from many of Dylan’s other works. Its poetic lyrics and grandiose style make it a unique and powerful piece in Dylan’s oeuvre, deserving more recognition for its artistic merit.

11. “Up to Me” (from “Biograph”, 1985, Columbia Records)

Lastly, “Up to Me” from the “Biograph” collection is a deeply introspective song that resonates with themes of personal responsibility and introspection. Its reflective tone and lyrical depth highlight Dylan’s ability to turn introspection into art. The song’s emotional resonance and poetic beauty make it an underrated but essential part of Dylan’s discography.

Fun Facts: Underrated Bob Dylan Songs

“I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” (from “John Wesley Harding”, 1967, Columbia Records)

• Unexpected Genre Shift: This song marked a surprising shift for Dylan, moving away from his folk and protest song roots into a more country-influenced style. It was a precursor to the full-fledged country sound he would explore in his next album, “Nashville Skyline.”
• Cover Versions: “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” has been covered by a wide range of artists, including Marianne Faithfull and Norah Jones, showcasing its broad appeal across different musical genres.

“Dear Landlord” (from “John Wesley Harding”, 1967, Columbia Records)

• Alleged Inspiration: There’s speculation that “Dear Landlord” was written about Dylan’s manager, Albert Grossman, although Dylan has never confirmed this. The lyrics’ references to contractual and relational frustrations hint at a deeper story.
• Musical Simplicity: The song’s musical arrangement is notably simple, with a focus on Dylan’s voice and harmonica. This simplicity underscores the directness and sincerity of the lyrics.

“Most Likely You Go Your Way and I’ll Go Mine” (from “Blonde on Blonde”, 1966, Columbia Records)

• Live Collaboration: A unique version of this song was performed and recorded during Dylan’s famous “Before the Flood” tour with The Band in 1974. This live version is known for its energetic and powerful rendition.
• Remix Culture: In 2007, a remixed version of this song was released, produced by Mark Ronson. This brought the song to a new audience and demonstrated its versatility.

“Spanish Harlem Incident” (from “Another Side of Bob Dylan”, 1964, Columbia Records)

• Lyrical Imagery: The song is renowned for its poetic and vivid imagery, painting a romantic and mystical picture of the Spanish Harlem neighborhood in New York City.
• Influence on Other Artists: This track has inspired several other musicians and has been covered by artists like The Byrds, showcasing its influence beyond the folk genre.

“Isis” (from “Desire”, 1976, Columbia Records)

• Narrative Storytelling: “Isis” is a prime example of Dylan’s talent for narrative songwriting. The song tells a detailed story, complete with characters and a plot, which is somewhat unusual in popular music.
• Collaborative Creation: The song was co-written with Jacques Levy, a theatre director and songwriter, highlighting Dylan’s collaborative spirit during this period of his career.

“You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome When You Go” (from “Blood on the Tracks”, 1975, Columbia Records)

• Personal Reflections: Many critics and fans believe that this song, along with the rest of the “Blood on the Tracks” album, was influenced by the turmoil in Dylan’s personal life, particularly his separation from his wife, Sara.
• Popular Among Artists: This track has been covered by numerous artists, including Miley Cyrus and Madeleine Peyroux, showing its enduring appeal and versatility.

“Up to Me” (from “Biograph”, 1985, Columbia Records)

• Initially Unreleased: Interestingly, “Up to Me” was recorded during the sessions for “Blood on the Tracks” but didn’t make it onto the album. It was later released on the “Biograph” compilation.
• Lyrical Depth: The song is often noted for its introspective lyrics, which some interpret as reflecting Dylan’s thoughts on his career and personal journey.

And there you have it, folks – a journey through the lesser-known but equally fascinating corners of Bob Dylan’s musical universe. These tracks not only highlight his versatility but also remind us why he remains an icon in the world of music. Keep exploring, and you’ll always find new gems!

Thanks for reading.

TBone