The Byrds Begin The Folk-Rock Revolution

It was on this date 45 years ago that the Byrds released “Mr. Tambourine Man”—their debut album, which is credited with starting what’s been termed the “folk-rock revolution”.

No one saw it coming.

Back in 1965, the Beatles were truly “it”, so the emergence of this variation of sound went largely unnoticed by many at the time. Of course, radio listeners and album buyers embraced it—and the #1 single, the title track, helped to launch a sound that is still being heard today.

The guitars and backbeat of the British invasion were successfully joined to the harmonies and lyrical depth of folk music—to create a distinct new sound.

Roger McGuinn had that sound in his head—and decided to draw upon the genius of Bob Dylan to make it real. Newly signed to Columbia Records, McGuinn had access to a demo of “Mr. Tambourine Man” even before Dylan himself (another Columbia artist) could record it for his own album.

On January 20, 1965, the Byrds—McGuinn, David Crosby, Gene Clark, Michael Clark and Chris Hillman—entered the studio to record what would eventually become the only Dylan song to hit #1 on the pop charts.

Here is a video of the Byrds performing this classic on the Frankie Avalon show—only their SECOND TV appearance:



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPqAvgN6Tyw


Even Bob Dylan was impressed—his reaction after hearing the Byrds’ version of his song was, “Wow, man you can even dance to that!”

Although the Byrds achieved their huge commercial success for only about two years, they are still considered one of the most influential bands of the 60’s.

In 1991, the Byrds were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, marking the last time the original five members performed together. Gene Clark died later that year from a heart attack—and Michael Clarke passed away from liver problems in 1993.

To this day, the sustained-note sound of that twelve string Rickenbacker guitar remains an integral part of a sound that essentially began 45 years ago.

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