Bob Dylan is one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Even though some of his later work may be a bit hit or miss, there’s no denying his skill with words and storytelling. What makes Dylan special isn’t just the music — it’s how he tells a story through his songs. From the political songs on The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan to the emotional heartbreak on Blood on the Tracks, Dylan always tried new things and pushed what a song could be.
But Dylan didn’t come up with his genius alone. He was inspired by other great songwriters, and he has openly talked about who he admires the most. Here are a few of them.
John Prine
John Prine was a folk singer with a gift for storytelling. Dylan called his songs “pure Proustian existentialism,” meaning they explore life and emotions in a deep, thoughtful way. Songs like Sam Stone and Lake Marie show how Prine could tell a story about ordinary people with honesty and beauty. Dylan admired that Prine’s music couldn’t be copied — it was entirely his own.
Gordon Lightfoot
Gordon Lightfoot might not be as famous as some pop stars, but Dylan considered him a mentor. Lightfoot’s songs, like The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald and If You Could Read My Mind, paint detailed pictures of people and events. Dylan loved how Lightfoot’s songs were rich in emotion and storytelling, and he has said that every time he hears one of Lightfoot’s songs, he wishes it would last forever.
Randy Newman
Randy Newman is known for songs with clever lyrics, social commentary, and emotion. Dylan admired Newman for writing songs that were simple but powerful, like Sail Away and Short People. Newman’s songs often tell stories with a mix of humor and seriousness, and Dylan respected how deeply they made you think, even when they seemed simple at first.
Paul McCartney
Even a legend like Dylan was in awe of Paul McCartney. Dylan praised McCartney for being able to play any instrument, write incredible melodies, and sing both rock songs and ballads perfectly. McCartney’s skill as a musician and songwriter inspired Dylan, showing how melody and story can work together beautifully.
Why Dylan’s Influences Matter
Dylan’s favorite songwriters all share one thing: they tell stories. They use music to explore life, emotions, and people. Dylan learned from them, but he also added his own twist. That’s why his songs still feel fresh and important decades later.
Listening to Dylan — and the artists he admires — reminds us that great songs are about honesty, storytelling, and emotion. It’s not just about chords or production. It’s about the story the song tells and the feelings it creates.
Bob Dylan shows us that the best music doesn’t just entertain — it makes us feel, think, and connect with life itself.