Celebrating Bob Dylan's 70th Birthday

Bob Dylan’s done it. He’s made it all the way to 70 years old. Considering the artist’s rather chaotic past, this is definitely an accomplishment to be celebrated. The folk legend has had an undeniable influence on American music and culture, and we here at Paste are thrilled that he’s still alive and kicking it. Want a way to say thank you but can’t be there with him to blow out the candles? Here are some things people across the world are doing to say, “We love ya Bobby Dee and have a great birthday.”

*In India, rocker Lou Majaw be doing what he does every year — a 10-hour-long tribute concert, dedicated to Mr. Zimmerman. Majaw started this ritual on Dylan’s birthday back in 1972 as a way to honor the legendary folk artist and has continued every May 24 since. Majaw has since pushed to make the artist’s birthday a national holiday but, to no avail. Now that’s some dedication. (Thanks to the The Telegraph for the heads up.)

*According to The Guardian, Bristol University is hosting an academic conference entitled “Seven Ages of Dylan.” Britain’s most learned Bob Dylan scholars gathered to analyze Dylan’s songs to determine whether or not the artist could really be considered a poet. Is there really any denying it after hearing Blonde on Blonde?

*Dylan’s hometown of Hibbing, Minn. will be hosting their annual “Dylan Days” festival May 26-29. Among the myriad of events designed to celebrate Mr. Dylan’s birth is a “Bobby Zimmerman Bus Tour” which shows off the artist’s childhood haunts and potential influences.

*Copia is offering a free copy of Dylan biography Revolution in the Air by Clinton Heylin. Download it here.

There’s still time. Grab your harmonica, throw on your suit coat and go out and celebrate the birth of a music legend.