By Stig Editor 
New Book on Bob Dylan Dives into His Transformative 1960s Era
A new book, Decade of Dissent: How 1960s Bob Dylan Changed the World, by author Sean Egan, explores Bob Dylan’s most influential period during the 1960s, a time when he reshaped music and culture. Released on May 20, 2025, the biography spans Dylan’s rise as a folk icon with albums like The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan to his controversial shift to electric rock with Highway 61 Revisited and Blonde on Blonde, culminating in his retreat from the spotlight after his 1966 motorcycle crash. Drawing on exclusive interviews, the book examines how Dylan’s poetic lyrics and political consciousness revolutionized popular music, cementing his status as a cultural icon.
Egan highlights Dylan’s multifaceted role in the 1960s as a folk hero, civil rights advocate, and revolutionary voice, capturing the era’s turbulence through songs like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’.” The book details his infamous “Judas” moment when he went electric, a move that alienated folk purists but birthed folk-rock, influencing countless artists. It also explores his retreat by the decade’s end, marked by the release of Self Portrait in 1970, which some saw as a deliberate step back from fame. Egan argues this period solidified Dylan’s legacy as one of the greatest musicians ever.
Dylan’s background in Hibbing, Minnesota, is a key focus, with Egan noting how its cultural isolation shaped his rebellious spirit, even if he didn’t face financial hardship. The book delves into how this environment influenced his protest songs, which became anthems for social change, though Dylan himself resisted being labeled a spokesperson for any movement. His 1966 motorcycle crash, which Egan suggests was partly an escape from relentless pressure after releasing three groundbreaking albums in just over a year, marked a turning point, leading to the introspective Basement Tapes and a shift in his public persona.
The book has sparked discussion among fans, with some on X praising its deep dive into Dylan’s early drafts and creative process, while others appreciate its fresh insights into his cultural impact. However, some critics might argue it focuses too heavily on the 1960s, potentially overlooking Dylan’s later reinventions, like his Grammy-winning *Time Out of Mind* in 1997. Egan himself hopes the book appeals to both new listeners and longtime fans, offering a window into why Dylan’s 1960s work remains relevant amid ongoing social struggles.
Decade of Dissent arrives as Dylan’s legacy continues to be celebrated, following recent projects like the Becoming Led Zeppelin documentary on Netflix and the upcoming biopic *A Complete Unknown. As Dylan, now 84, continues his Never Ending Tour, this book serves as a timely reflection on the decade that defined him, reminding readers of his unparalleled ability to challenge norms and inspire change through music. It’s a must-read for those seeking to understand the roots of his enduring influence.