Bob Dylan’s latest release, “Murder Most Foul,” has made history by becoming his first song to reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This 17-minute track, released on March 27, 2020, reflects on the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and its profound impact on American society. The song marks Dylan’s first original release since his 2012 album, “Tempest.”
Dylan’s “Murder Most Foul” delves into the events surrounding Kennedy’s assassination on November 22, 1963, exploring the ripple effects that followed. The first verse is dedicated to the president’s death, while the remaining verses examine how this tragedy influenced various cultural and social facets of American life. Dylan weaves in references to the racial tensions of the era and the emergence of Beatlemania, highlighting the stark contrasts between pop culture and national grief.
In a manner reminiscent of his earlier work, Dylan’s song contains a rich tapestry of allusions. He references a total of 74 songs, including tracks by Joni Mitchell, Billy Joel, and Ella Fitzgerald. Beyond music, Dylan incorporates significant historical markers, such as the infamous quote from Lee Harvey Oswald, who claimed he was “just a patsy,” and the nickname “the Blood-Stained Banner,” associated with the final flag of the Confederacy.
Collaboration with Fiona Apple
Dylan enlisted the help of several musicians for “Murder Most Foul,” including acclaimed singer-songwriter Fiona Apple. Known for her perfectionism and critically acclaimed work, Apple initially hesitated to contribute, feeling underqualified for the task. However, Dylan sought her unique voice rather than conventional perfection. Reflecting on her experience, Apple described it as both encouraging and empowering.
Apple shared, “I couldn’t believe it. I had met him many years ago, but I don’t really know why I’m on the record. I told Bob I was really insecure about it, and he was really encouraging and nice. He was just like, ‘You’re not here to be perfect, you’re here to be you.'”
Dylan’s Historical Context
Dylan’s connection to the Kennedy assassination is not new. Shortly after the event, on December 13, 1963, he received the Tom Paine Award from the Emergency Civil Liberties Union. During this occasion, he faced backlash for his comments regarding Oswald. Dylan’s admission that he saw some of himself in Oswald elicited gasps and booing from the audience, showcasing the divisive nature of his reflections.
In his 1972 biography, “Bob Dylan,” the artist reflected on the surreal experience of performing soon after Kennedy’s assassination. He recalled feeling a disconnect between the act of entertaining and the national mourning that enveloped the country. Dylan candidly stated, “I know I had no understanding of anything. For me, it was just insane.”
“Murder Most Foul” stands as a testament to Dylan’s enduring legacy in music. As he continues to explore complex themes through his artistry, the song not only captures a pivotal moment in American history but also serves as a reminder of the profound connections between music, culture, and collective memory.
