10 Most Influential American Acts On British Rock
3. Bob Dylan
During the '60s Bob Dylan became America's voice. His early days as a folk musician gave credence to the protest movement, with the evocative imagery conjured up by his lyricism. During the early part of the '60s the folk revival was the music of the youth, and in many ways the leading American sound at the time.
After the British Invasion, however, many American acts, including Dylan, began adopting a more blues-inspired from of rock 'n' roll. Conversely, the Beatles (arguably the most influential group going) were in awe of Dylan, even before he went electric. The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan (1963) was one of the records that gave the Beatles pause when it came to crafting their own songs.
Dylan going electric has gone down in history as one of the pivotal moments in modern rock. It informed musicians of the power that comes with crossing musical boundaries. Everyone from Joe Strummer (the Clash), Syd Barret (Pink Floyd), David Bowie and Bryan Ferry has looked to Dylan for inspiration when it came to blending genres.