it is impossible to define just one Bob Dylan . There were several: the heir to folk and delta blues, the protest singer, the electric "Judas", the New Christian... Dylan was romantic, vengeful, communal, individualist, he introduced the Beatles to the "smoke", he was in a supergroup (the Traveling Wilburys) and sang in "We Are The World", he has been on permanent tour for almost a quarter of a century, he releases albums at a good pace (two albums in 2009) and rehabilitates the past at an even greater pace ("Bootleg Series"). And today he turns 70 years old.
Calleb Followill, lead singer of Kings Of Leon , said: "He's a huge hero. Anyone who's ever tried to write a song feels stupid when they hear one of his songs. We met on tour, I almost passed out."
Slash was equally effusive in his praise, saying, "I've played with some of the greats, but Bob Dylan is one of the greatest without a doubt."
Luke Pritchard, leader of The Kooks also spoke very highly of Dylan. He wrote in The Sun today: "People say he's a terrible singer, but his voice is unique. He wasn't just a musical pioneer, he was the icon of a generation."
Win Butler, from Arcade Fire , he adds: "Once your music is presented it is very difficult to listen to the radio again". (NME/Blitz)
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