About the song
Bob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man” is a song that has transcended its time, resonating with audiences of all ages. Released in 1965 as the opening track of his album Bringing It All Back Home, it quickly became a cultural touchstone, influencing countless musicians and captivating listeners with its enigmatic lyrics and infectious melody.
The song’s popularity is undeniable. It has been covered by a diverse range of artists, from folk legends like Judy Collins to pop icons like Stevie Wonder. The Byrds’ version, in particular, became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying their status as pioneers of folk rock. Dylan’s song has also been featured in numerous films, television shows, and books, cementing its place in popular culture.
One of the reasons for “Mr. Tambourine Man’s” enduring appeal lies in its evocative lyrics. Dylan’s words paint vivid imagery, inviting listeners to embark on a surreal journey. The title character, a mysterious figure who plays a tambourine, is often interpreted as a symbol of inspiration or a muse. The narrator’s plea for the tambourine man to play a song and let him follow suggests a desire for guidance or escape.
The song’s musical arrangement is equally captivating. The Byrds’ version, with its jangly guitars and harmonies, helped to define the sound of folk rock. The melody is both catchy and haunting, creating a sense of longing and wonder.
“Mr. Tambourine Man” is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and connect with audiences on a deep level. It is a song that continues to inspire and intrigue, reminding us of the enduring beauty and mystery of the human spirit.
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Lyrics
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Though I know that evening’s empire has returned into sand
Vanished from my hand
Left me blindly here to stand, but still not sleeping
My weariness amazes me, I’m branded on my feet
I have no one to meet
And the ancient empty street’s too dead for dreaming
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Take me on a trip upon your magic swirling ship
My senses have been stripped
My hands can’t feel to grip
My toes too numb to step
Wait only for my boot heels to be wandering
I’m ready to go anywhere, I’m ready for to fade
Into my own parade
Cast your dancing spell my way, I promise to go under it
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
Though you might hear laughing, spinning, swinging madly across the sun
It’s not aimed at anyone
It’s just escaping on the run
And but for the sky there are no fences facing
And if you hear vague traces of skipping reels of rhyme
To your tambourine in time
It’s just a ragged clown behind
I wouldn’t pay it any mind
It’s just a shadow you’re seeing that he’s chasing
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you
And take me disappearing through the smoke rings of my mind
Down the foggy ruins of time
Far past the frozen leaves
The haunted frightened trees
Out to the windy beach
Far from the twisted reach of crazy sorrow
Yes, to dance beneath the diamond sky
With one hand waving free
Silhouetted by the sea
Circled by the circus sands
With all memory and fate
Driven deep beneath the waves
Let me forget about today until tomorrow
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey, Mr. Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come following you