George Harrison on Why Bob Dylan Was the “Looniest,” Yet “Most Consistent Artist” He Ever Knew
Complete normalcy and greatness rarely ever walk hand in hand. Rather, the finest minds to grace any field typically have something “off” about them. “Off” given that they see something we don’t, and consequently, their perspective influences their “abnormal” actions. One exceptional talent and thinker who certainly falls under this category is Bob Dylan.
Many famous artists have attested to Bob Dylan’s eccentric personality. David Crosby once stated that Dylan was as “crazy as a f—ing fruit fly,” per the LA Times. Furthermore, Dolly Parton also attested to that fact, as she told the Daily Mail, “I love his music but he’s a weird buckaroo.”
Given those testimonies, it seems some of the music industry’s biggest acts share a mutual perception about Bob Dylan. One other person who agreed with that notion was Dylan’s friend and collaborator, George Harrison. Harrison Admired Bob Dylan’s Eccentric Personality.
Bob Dylan and George Harrison climbed to the top at the same time, but in different genres of music. However, by the end of the 80s, their paths converged as the infamous supergroup, the Travelin’ Wilburys, was formed in 1988. Dylan and Harrison were acquaintances before this, but through their partnership, a more solidified friendship seemingly formed.
Concerning Harrison’s affinity for Dylan, Harrison stated, “Bob Dylan is the most consistent artist there is. Even his stuff, which people loathe, I like.” “Every single thing he does represents something that’s him. He may write better songs tomorrow, sing high on this album and low on another, go electric or acoustic, go weird or whatever, but the basic thing that causes all this change is an incredible character named Bob Dylan,” he added, per the Express.
Out of complete admiration and awe, George Harrison also divulged, “He’s the looniest person I know!” While Harrison did not define his definition of “looniest,” per his prior comments, it seems he’s alluding to Dylan’s ever-changing ways and personality. In other words, Harrison was impressed by Dylan’s ability to find the inspiration and means to reinvent himself on a whim.
Source: americansongwriter.com/Peter Burditt
