Self Portrait
Bob Dylan · 1970
74 min · 24 tracks · blues · folk rock · jazz
An eclectic collection of covers and originals that melds folk, country, and blues with a reflective, laid-back vibe.
Why this album works
- Best for
- laid-back afternoon listening reflective moments of solitude easygoing sing-alongs with friends
- Context
- Released in 1970, 'Self Portrait' marked Bob Dylan's first album after the ambitious double LP 'Blonde on Blonde' and his return from a brief hiatus. At this point, he was navigating the complexities of fame and public expectation while exploring a more casual, introspective style.
- If you like
- blues, folk rock, jazz
Self Portrait is an album by Bob Dylan, released in 1970. An eclectic collection of covers and originals that melds folk, country, and blues with a reflective, laid-back vibe. The album received mixed reviews upon release but has since been recognized for its unique approach to folk and Americana music. Its unconventional structure and inclusion of live tracks contributed to discussions about artistic authenticity in the early 1970s, influencing subsequent artists in the genre. 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 Self Portrait sound like?
An eclectic collection of covers and originals that melds folk, country, and blues with a reflective, laid-back vibe. Rooted in blues and folk rock.
What makes Self Portrait by Bob Dylan notable?
The album received mixed reviews upon release but has since been recognized for its unique approach to folk and Americana music. Its unconventional structure and inclusion of live tracks contributed to discussions about artistic authenticity in the early 1970s, influencing subsequent artists in the genre. Released in 1970, 'Self Portrait' marked Bob Dylan's first album after the ambitious double LP 'Blonde on Blonde' and his return from a brief hiatus. At this point, he was navigating the complexities of fame and public expectation while exploring a more casual, introspective style.
Who is Self Portrait for?
Self Portrait works well if you're into laid-back afternoon listening, reflective moments of solitude and easygoing sing-alongs with friends.
How many songs are on Self Portrait?
Self Portrait has 24 tracks, running approximately 74 minutes.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 All the Tired Horses Standout 3:12
- 2 Alberta #1 2:57
- 3 I Forgot More Than You'll Ever Know 2:22
- 4 Days of 49 5:27
- 5 Early Mornin' Rain 3:34
- 6 In Search of Little Sadie 2:27
- 7 Let It Be Me 3:00
- 8 Little Sadie 2:00
- 9 Woogie Boogie 2:06
- 10 Belle Isle 2:30
- 11 Living the Blues 2:42
- 12 Like a Rolling Stone (live) Standout 5:18
- 13 Copper Kettle 3:34
- 14 Gotta Travel On 3:08
- 15 Blue Moon 2:29
- 16 The Boxer 2:48
- 17 The Mighty Quinn (Quinn the Eskimo) (live) 2:48
- 18 Take Me as I Am (or Let Me Go) 3:03
- 19 Take a Message to Mary 2:46
- 20 It Hurts Me Too 3:15
- 21 Minstrel Boy (live) 3:32
- 22 She Belongs to Me (live) 2:43
- 23 Wigwam Standout 3:09
- 24 Alberta #2 3:14
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