Empire Burlesque
Bob Dylan · 1985
46 min · 10 tracks · blues · folk rock · jazz
A fusion of pop sensibilities and Dylan's poignant storytelling wrapped in a slick, synthesized production.
Why this album works
- Best for
- poignant storytelling with flair late-night reflective listening experience thoughtful melodies for introspection
- Context
- Released on June 10, 1985, 'Empire Burlesque' came during a transitional phase for Bob Dylan, following his 1984 album 'Infidels'. This album marked a notable shift towards a more commercial sound, influenced by the 1980s music scene, reflecting both personal and artistic reinvention as he embraced new production techniques.
- If you like
- blues, folk rock, jazz
Empire Burlesque is an album by Bob Dylan, released in 1985. A fusion of pop sensibilities and Dylan's poignant storytelling wrapped in a slick, synthesized production. 'Empire Burlesque' received mixed reviews upon its release but has gained recognition for its bold departure from Dylan's earlier styles. The album peaked at No. 33 on the Billboard 200 chart and included the hit single 'Tight Connection to My Heart', showcasing Dylan's ability to adapt to contemporary trends while still delivering incisive lyrics. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
New to Bob Dylan? Read our guide on where to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Empire Burlesque sound like?
A fusion of pop sensibilities and Dylan's poignant storytelling wrapped in a slick, synthesized production. Rooted in blues and folk rock.
What makes Empire Burlesque by Bob Dylan notable?
'Empire Burlesque' received mixed reviews upon its release but has gained recognition for its bold departure from Dylan's earlier styles. The album peaked at No. 33 on the Billboard 200 chart and included the hit single 'Tight Connection to My Heart', showcasing Dylan's ability to adapt to contemporary trends while still delivering incisive lyrics. Released on June 10, 1985, 'Empire Burlesque' came during a transitional phase for Bob Dylan, following his 1984 album 'Infidels'. This album marked a notable shift towards a more commercial sound, influenced by the 1980s music scene, reflecting both personal and artistic reinvention as he embraced new production techniques.
Who is Empire Burlesque for?
Empire Burlesque works well if you're into poignant storytelling with flair, late-night reflective listening experience and thoughtful melodies for introspection.
How many songs are on Empire Burlesque?
Empire Burlesque has 10 tracks, running approximately 46 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Tight Connection to My Heart (Has Anybody Seen My Love?) Standout 5:19
- 2 Seeing the Real You at Last Standout 4:18
- 3 I’ll Remember You 4:12
- 4 Clean Cut Kid 4:14
- 5 Never Gonna Be the Same Again 3:06
- 6 Trust Yourself 3:26
- 7 Emotionally Yours Standout 4:36
- 8 When the Night Comes Falling From the Sky 7:18
- 9 Something’s Burning, Baby 4:51
- 10 Dark Eyes 5:04
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