Bob Dylan’s “Make You Feel My Love” is a timeless ballad covered by over 450 artists, from Adele to Garth Brooks. But who actually wrote this iconic song, and why wasn’t it initially a Dylan hit? This article delves into the intriguing history of “Make You Feel My Love”, exploring its origins, its journey to becoming a global phenomenon, and the fascinating story of how it became a hit for other artists before Dylan himself.
The Genesis of a Masterpiece: Dylan’s “Time Out of Mind” Sessions
The story begins with the recording sessions for Dylan’s acclaimed 1997 album, “Time Out of Mind”. “Make You Feel My Love” emerged as a simple piano ballad, with alternate versions showcasing Dylan’s meticulous crafting of the song now available in the “Bootleg Series Vol. 17: Fragments”. Interestingly, Dylan wasn’t the first to release the song.
Billy Joel: An Unexpected Debut for “Make You Feel My Love”
While compiling a Greatest Hits album, Billy Joel’s record label suggested including a new track to boost sales. Dylan’s team offered “Make You Feel My Love”, and it was a pivotal moment for the song’s trajectory. Then-President of Columbia Records, Don Ienner, was captivated by the song, recognizing its potential as one of Dylan’s greatest love songs. Joel’s rendition became an adult contemporary hit, further propelled by a live performance on the Late Show with David Letterman, where he confessed to having goosebumps upon first hearing the track.
Dylan’s Release and the Ensuing Wave of Covers
A few months after Joel’s success, Dylan released his own version on “Time Out of Mind”, which went on to win a Grammy. However, the song’s journey was far from over. Something about “Make You Feel My Love” resonated deeply with artists, sparking a wave of covers. Adele, while recording her debut album “19”, connected profoundly with the song’s lyrics, describing them as the most beautiful she had ever encountered. The song became a cornerstone of her live performances and a global sensation.
The Power of Lyrics: A Song of Devotion
The enduring appeal of “Make You Feel My Love” lies in its lyrics: words of unwavering devotion and profound commitment. Some interpretations even suggest a religious undertone, with the lyrics echoing a Christ-like dedication: “I’d go hungry / I’d go black and blue / And I’d go crawling down the avenue / No, there’s nothing that I wouldn’t do / To make you feel my love.”
From Garth Brooks to Ed Sheeran: A Legacy of Interpretations
Beyond Adele, numerous artists have embraced “Make You Feel My Love,” each offering a unique interpretation. Ed Sheeran, Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson, and countless others have contributed to the song’s legacy, with over 450 recorded versions testament to its enduring power.
Dylan’s Strategic Move: The Business of Songwriting
So why did Dylan allow other artists to release “Make You Feel My Love” first? Dylan had a history of this, with songs from his “Basement Tapes” era becoming hits for other artists, like Manfred Mann’s rendition of “The Mighty Quinn”. This strategy generated substantial publishing revenue, suggesting that offering “Make You Feel My Love” to Joel was a shrewd business move.
Dylan’s Silence on His Favorite Version
Dylan himself remains tight-lipped about his preferred version of the song. In a rare interview on his website, he simply stated, “Yeah, one after the other, they all did…” leaving the ultimate interpretation to the listener. The enduring legacy of “Make You Feel My Love” speaks volumes about its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with artists and audiences across generations.
