About the song
On July 13, 1985, the world witnessed one of the most iconic moments in music history during Live Aid, the monumental concert aimed at raising funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Among the many unforgettable performances was a powerful rendition of “Blowin’ in the Wind,” delivered by the legendary Bob Dylan, accompanied by Rolling Stones’ guitarist Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood. This collaboration brought together three titans of rock and roll on one stage, creating an indelible moment that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
“Blowin’ in the Wind,” originally released by Bob Dylan in 1963 on his album *The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan*, is one of the most celebrated protest songs of all time. The song’s poignant lyrics, which pose a series of rhetorical questions about peace, war, and freedom, have made it an anthem for social change and civil rights movements. Upon its release, “Blowin’ in the Wind” quickly became a symbol of the 1960s counterculture and solidified Dylan’s reputation as a voice of a generation.
By 1985, the song had already secured its place in music history, and its performance at Live Aid only further cemented its legacy. Bob Dylan, known for his evocative songwriting and distinctive voice, was joined by Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, whose guitar prowess added a raw, dynamic edge to the live rendition. Their collaboration was a testament to the enduring power of the song and its relevance across different eras and musical genres.
Live Aid, organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure, was a global event that featured performances by some of the biggest names in music, aiming to harness the power of rock and roll to address a critical humanitarian crisis. Dylan’s performance with Richards and Wood stood out not only for its star power but also for the timeless message of “Blowin’ in the Wind,” reminding viewers of the ongoing struggle for peace and justice.
This particular rendition of “Blowin’ in the Wind” at Live Aid remains a poignant reminder of music’s ability to bring people together and inspire change. The collaboration between Bob Dylan, Keith Richards, and Ronnie Wood exemplified the unifying power of music and the enduring impact of a song that continues to resonate with listeners around the world.
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Lyrics
How many roads must a man walk down
Before you call him a man?
How many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand?
Yes, and how many times must the cannonballs fly
Before they’re forever banned?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind
Yes, and how many years must a mountain exist
Before it is washed to the sea?
And how many years can some people exist
Before they’re allowed to be free?
Yes, and how many times can a man turn his head
And pretend that he just doesn’t see?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind
Yes, and how many times must a man look up
Before he can see the sky?
And how many ears must one man have
Before he can hear people cry?
Yes, and how many deaths will it take ’til he knows
That too many people have died?
The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind