I have my own particular way of using YouTube. Mostly I relate to historical documentation; popular, highly viewed postings usually fade quickly from my view, and thoughts. Lately, I have been completely over taken by classic outtakes of Bob Dylan—remarkable moments captured and now posted to “live forever” on YouTube. The following selections are my favorites, and I watch them in heavy rotation for inspiration.

“Bob Dylan on Booing and Walking Out—1966”: Dylan is discussing with his band yet another night of catcalls while playing on the road, and people’s reaction to his going electric. The band talks about how one paper said that some people walked out, while Dylan states that he read a paper that said everyone walked out. This is a favorite of mine. That feeling of what most people fear—complete rejection—occurs in this case in the form of an audience, yet Dylan has the irony and guts to turn the situation around, stating: “I’m going to walk out . . .” Or his more child-like reaction: “I’m going to tell them that Dylan got sick.” I admire that. A short moment of time captured for constant replay and remembrance on YouTube.

“Bob Dylan Gets Death Threat”: While backstage at an English concert, Dylan is told by his manager that they just received a death threat—that Dylan is going to be shot. Again, I bless YouTube for letting this documented moment repeat for eternity. What more is there to say? Dylan covers it: “I don’t mind being shot . . .  but I don’t dig being told about it.” Of course one would mind being shot, but this is irony and witticism full blast. A denial against those forces outside of us.

“Bob Dylan—I lied”: This ends my trio hero worship of Dylan. This clip exposes Dylan’s opposition to the media, which he said was always trying to pin him down. The CBS interviewer asks Dylan why he lied to the media. He replies: “The only person you’re going to have to think about lying twice to is either yourself or to God. The press isn’t either of them and I just figured they’re irrelevant.” Nice commentary on the media, or “media on media” on YouTube. Why wouldn’t it be a favorite clip of mine?

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