Shot of Love cover

Shot of Love

Bob Dylan · 1981

44 min · 10 tracks · blues · folk rock · jazz

A soulful blend of gospel-infused rock that navigates themes of love, faith, and redemption.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective moments of personal growth
  • soulful expressions of heartfelt love
  • late-night contemplations on faith
  • introspective journeys through redemption

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking upbeat party anthems
  • prefer instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Themes
spiritual redemption· Christian faith journey· personal struggle with belief
Career context
By the time 'Shot of Love' was released in August 1981, Bob Dylan was experiencing a creative resurgence following his critically acclaimed 'Slow Train Coming' (1979) and 'Saved' (1980). This album marked Dylan's third consecutive project with a strong Christian influence, reflecting his ongoing spiritual exploration during this period.
Stylistic neighbors
Leonard Cohen· Neil Young· Johnny Cash
Sounds like this from elsewhere
The Joshua Tree by U2 — Shares themes of spiritual searching and redemption with a similarly anthemic rock sound.
Various Positions by Leonard Cohen — Explores faith and personal struggle through poetic lyrics and a soulful, reflective atmosphere.
Into the Music by Van Morrison — Merges gospel influences with themes of love and spiritual awakening in a rich, soulful sound.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Shot of Love 4:21
  • 2 Heart of Mine 4:35
  • 3 Property of Jesus 4:36
  • 4 Lenny Bruce 4:35
  • 5 Watered‐Down Love 4:13
  • 6 The Groom’s Still Waiting at the Altar 4:05
  • 7 Dead Man, Dead Man 4:03
  • 8 In the Summertime 3:36
  • 9 Trouble 4:37
  • 10 Every Grain of Sand 6:12

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata