Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan’s impact on culture transcends music. His topical lyrics, protest statements, and anti-establishment appearance made him an icon of the civil rights and anti-war movements of the 1960s.

Dylan’s early music drew on elements of folk, R&B, gospel, and Beat Generation poetry to create an original sound.

After establishing himself in the folk community, Dylan created controversy when he played an electric set at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. His “plugged in” performance was met with boos but spoke to his shift in musical style and attitude.

Dylan’s entry in TIME 100: The Most Important People of the Century speaks to his legacy. He is referred to as a “master poet, caustic social critic and intrepid, guiding spirit of the counterculture generation.”