Bob Dylan: Performing Artist: The Early Years 1960-1973

This is my first discovery of Paul Williams' writing. Not only is it an extremely informative work on one of the greatest artists of our age, but the writing itself is a true pleasure to read. I fell in love with Williams' voice in the first ten pages and immediately went to find more of his works. In doing so, I discovered that he passed on a few years ago. His writing was so intimate and his passion made so plain, that it actually bothered me on a personal level to find he was gone. It really did draw me in that much.Read this book is you're a Dylan fan. Even if you know it all about Dylan, it's not just the information (though that is considerable and often amazing in depth) that makes this a worthwhile read, it's the passion for the subject and for music and for LIFE in general. Come for the great musical artist being discussed, stay for the artist discussing him.Yes, I suppose this isn't so much a review as it is my personal letter to Mr. Williams. From one writer to another:Mr. Williams, you were one hell of a wordsmith, and I hope someday to reach your level. Just when I was beginning to doubt the work and sacrifice of this path, I find your book and remember that this is a goal worth striving for. Thank you for your work. I hope you're having a hell of a time up there.

Kept chair side to consult as I listen through the immense journey and library of language, thought, dreams and supporting musicians of the song or album. Have all three vol.s: Early, Mid and Later. If you have interest or a need to know, like I need, then Williams lays out generally what you are looking for and information that never even occurred to you. As opposed to Wikipedia (my previous source) where one never knows what one can count on and what is a guess or mistake. Once again: Want to know? Then must have!

Very well written

This first Dylan book by Paul Williams, the inventor of an early 'rock publication' of criticism, CRAWDADDY, focuses on Dylan as PERFORMER, which emphasizes the energy of the earliest recordings, many black blues, and steeped in Christian language of death, as well as the transition to WRITER of song, with Blowing in the Wind, as recorded by Peter, Paul, and Mary, as facilitated by Dylan's manager, who is generally depicted as a scruffy, scheming Jewish businessman, which, on occasion, Williams slips into with Dylan himself. Williams profile of Dylan's early transition as a folk artist in New York, to song writer and performer is excellent, and a good guide for anyone who seeks to learn from another's experience, whether in the 'song-writing' capitols of Nashville, New York, or LA.and shows a great respect for the context, and well documented 'borrowing of traditional 'folk' methods, without damning Dylan the artist for this, as Williams shows or argues this is the essence of all artistic creation. Williams' reference to other published work about Dylan is thoughtful, nuanced, and polite when he differs. As other reviewers note, this is an essential book of Dylan biography and criticism, and outstanding for emphasis on the thoughtful interpretation, while downsizing biographical personal detail. Politically, and theologically, I believe the book leaves a bit to be desired, but that's why many more will be written.One particular theme, that of a focused writer comes thru in Williams analysis of Dylan writing 'Times They Are A Changing,' in 1963 at the height of the civil rights movement after performing with Baez at the March on Washington, a tune most recently 'covered' by long time Nashville sideman, and country rock star,Charlie Daniels. Of course, it remains to be seen which way the times are changing. now, as well as then.

Quick service and a nice clean book. A book you can dip in and out of.

Nobody knows how to write about Dylan but Dylan himself. Gooey, stinky fanboy.

Paul Williams is probably the best understander of Bob's music (IMHO) and his writing is a joy. So depending on the bards period in which you're intested this covers 74-86 brilliantly.