Who / What
"Rough and Rowdy Ways" is the thirty-ninth studio album by the American singer-songwriter Bob Dylan. It is a 2020 release of original songs, marking his return to original material after several albums covering traditional pop standards.
Background & History
The album was recorded at Sound City Studios between January and early March 2020. It was released on June 19, 2020, through Columbia Records. This album followed a trio of releases where Dylan focused on covering traditional pop standards, making it his first album of original songs since 2012's *Tempest*.
Why Notable
The album is notable as a significant late-career artistic statement from one of the most influential figures in popular music, ending an eight-year hiatus from releasing original material. Its release was a major cultural event, receiving widespread critical acclaim for its lyrical depth and musical direction. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart, demonstrating Dylan's enduring relevance.
In the News
As a recent and highly acclaimed studio album, "Rough and Rowdy Ways" solidified Bob Dylan's ongoing artistic vitality in the contemporary music landscape. Its release was a notable event in 2020, discussed extensively in music journalism and criticism for its thematic weight and craftsmanship.
