About the song
Bob Dylan, the enigmatic bard of American folk, has penned countless classics throughout his illustrious career. Among these masterpieces, “Cold Irons Bound” stands out as a testament to his enduring songwriting prowess. Released in 1997 as part of the critically acclaimed album Time Out of Mind, this track garnered Dylan a Grammy Award and cemented its place in the annals of folk music history.
The genesis of “Cold Irons Bound” is as serendipitous as it is inspiring. Inspired by a spontaneous drumbeat played by David Kemper, Dylan seized the moment and began crafting a song that would resonate with listeners for years to come. Kemper’s unique rhythm provided the foundation for a haunting melody that perfectly captured Dylan’s introspective lyricism.
The song’s title, “Cold Irons Bound,” evokes imagery of constraint and confinement, reflecting the themes of isolation and longing that permeate Dylan’s work. The lyrics delve into the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of mortality, regret, and the search for meaning. Dylan’s signature raspy vocals lend a raw and authentic quality to the song, further enhancing its emotional impact.
Despite initial reservations from producer Daniel Lanois, who believed the song lacked a strong melody, “Cold Irons Bound” ultimately proved to be a resounding success. Its Grammy Award win and enduring popularity serve as a testament to Dylan’s timeless songwriting ability and the song’s universal appeal.
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Lyrics
I’m beginning to hear voices and there’s no one around
Now I’m all used up and I fee so turned-around
I went to church on Sunday and she passed by
And my love for her is taking such a long time to die
God, I’m waist deep, waist deep in the mist
It’s almost like, almost like I don’t exist
I’m 20 miles out of town, Cold Irons bound
There’s a wall of pride high and wide
Can’t see over to the other side
It’s such a sad thing to see beauty decay
It’s sadder still to feel your heart torn away
One look at you and I’m out of control
Like the universe has swallowed me whole
I’m 20 miles out of town and Cold Irons bound
There’s too many people, too many to recall
I thought some of ’em were friends of mine
I was wrong about ’em all
Well, the road is rocky and the hillside’s mud
Up over my head nothing but clouds of blood
I found my own, I found my one in you
But your love just hasn’t proved true
I’m 20 miles out of town, Cold Irons bound
20 miles out of town, Cold Irons bound
Well the winds in Chicago have turned me to shreds
Reality has always had too many heads
Some things last longer than you think they will
Some kind of things you can never kill
It’s you and you only I’m thinking about
But you can’t see in, and it’s hard looking out
I’m 20 miles out of town, Cold Irons bound
Well the fat’s in the fire, and the water’s in the tank
And the whiskey’s in the jar, and the money’s in the bank
I tried to love and protect you because I cared
I’m gonna remember forever the joy we’ve shared
Looking at you and I’m on my bended knee
You have no idea what you do to me
I’m 20 miles out of town Cold Irons bound
20 miles out of town, Cold Irons bound