Genius. Icon. Legend.

Words that describe Bob Dylan would seem hyperbolic if they weren’t so… well, true. The fact that the rock ‘n’ roll star has managed to remain relevant to contemporary musicians is a feat in its own; Dylan also has released new material that is just as good as any of his previous work (see 2006’s Modern Times).

Bob Dylan’s story is well-known—Minnesota boy hits the big time with acoustic guitars and political protest songs, and though he eventually goes electric, he never loses the deft song-writing skills or plaintive vocals that made him a folk hero to start. Along the way there were women loved and lost (singer Joan Baez, wife Sara Lownds), album hits and misses, and the inevitable growing up and older.

Through it all, Dylan has maintained his legacy both as a brilliant artist and an inspiration for generations of musicians who have followed. His iconic records are as fresh today as they were when they were released, and only the best of his peers can say the same (namely the Beatles). Much has been said and written of the musical master, but Dylan will always be somewhat of a mystery. He probably prefers it that way.

Bob Dylan performs at the Joint September 1 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $62, $92 and $172.

By Caitlin McGarry

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