The Rich Tapestry of 'All Along the Watchtower' Covers: From Neil Young to XTC and Beyond
Bob Dylan's iconic song, All Along the Watchtower, has been covered countless times by musicians from various genres, each bringing their unique touch to this powerful piece. Notably, there is no official version of a song covering the original although that doesn't mean the covers are inferior. Most of Dylanrsquo;s live versions from his 1978 world tour are often considered second best, but there are many others that stand out for their exceptional interpretation.
Neil Young: A Cover with Depth
One notable exception is the version by Neil Young. His rendition of the song is not just a cover; it is a Young cover of a Hendrix song. In an interview, Dylan himself acknowledged that the song had become Hendrix's, though Young's rendition is a testament to his unique interpretation. Neil Young's cover, while paying homage to Hendrix, transforms the song itself into a masterpiece. This particular interpretation of All Along the Watchtower is often regarded as one of the best covers ever by any artist, showcasing Young's musicianship and emotional depth. This version is a testament to the versatility of the song and the enduring impact it has on musicians and listeners alike.
XTC's Unique Take: The Spooky Keyboards
Another standout version of All Along the Watchtower comes from the band XTC, featured on their debut album White Music in 1978. This recording is a unique occult-like melody driven by quirky, eerie synthesizers and showcases the early hint of Andy Partridge's fascination with dub music. XTC's version of the song is impossible to describe but is unlike any other cover, offering a fresh perspective that adds a layer of intrigue to the song. The spooky keyboards create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the song's chilling narrative.
The Mastery of Jimi Hendrix: The Best Cover of All
The version by Jimi Hendrix is perhaps the most famous and lauded interpretation of All Along the Watchtower. Hendrix’s cover is considered the best cover of the song, not just for Dylan, but for the entire repertoire. Dylan himself, in an interview, stated that Hendrix’s rendition of the song overwhelmed him because of Hendrix's ability to find new dimensions within the song. Hendrix's version not only captures the essence of the song but also expands upon it, making it an enduring masterpiece in its own right. The spaces Hendrix left in the song and his daring chord structures transformed the song into a testament of his genius.
Dave Matthews Band: A Live Staple
Even today, Dave Matthews Band (DMB) continues to perform All Along the Watchtower at the end of every gig. Dave Matthews' interpretation of the song, while derivative of Hendrix, adds a unique twist and emotional undercurrent that resonates with modern audiences. Matthews often imbues the song with a sense of reflection and introspection, adding to its timeless appeal. DMB's version, while not as technically complex as Hendrix's, is nonetheless a testament to the enduring power of the song.
Bob Dylan's Perspective: The Inspiration and Inspiration
When asked about his thoughts on the numerous covers of All Along the Watchtower, Bob Dylan said, It overwhelmed me really. He had such talent he could find things inside a song and vigorously develop them. He found things that other people wouldnt think of finding in there. He probably improved upon it by the spaces he was using. He continued, I took license with the song from his version actually and continue to do it to this day.
Dylan's comment highlights both the inspiration and the influence that Hendrix's version has had on him and other musicians. It is clear that Dylan values the reinterpretations of his work, recognizing the artistic merit and emotional depth they bring to the piece. The enduring appeal of All Along the Watchtower is a testament to the song’s timeless quality and the way it has resonated with different artists across generations.
From the haunting keyboards of XTC, to the raw emotion of Neil Young, to the pioneering technique of Jimi Hendrix, and the live staple of Dave Matthews Band, All Along the Watchtower continues to be a beloved and influential song in the world of music. Each cover adds to the rich tapestry of interpretations, making it a song that continues to evolve and inspire musicians and listeners alike.
The best version of All Along the Watchtower, continues to be a subject of much debate, but one thing is clear: the song has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Whether it's the raw power of Hendrix, the spooky keyboards of XTC, or the live performances of artists like Dave Matthews, All Along the Watchtower remains a beloved and influential song for all who love great music.