Introduction
Bob Dylan wrote “The Times They Are a‑Changin’” in late 1963 and recorded it on October 24, 1963, at Columbia Studios in New York. Released as the title track of his 1964 album and as a single in the UK (March 8, 1965), it became emblematic of the 1960s social and political unrest . Dylan deliberately crafted it as a timeless anthem of change, drawing influence from traditional Irish and Scottish ballads .
The song’s enduring power is reflected in over 633 live performances by Dylan himself between 1963 and 2009 . Its message has resonated across generations, inspiring covers by artists including Nina Simone, Joan Baez, Simon & Garfunkel, Bruce Springsteen and Burl Ives .
Rory Feek, born April 25, 1965, found early success as part of the country duo Joey + Rory, and later pivoted to writing and solo projects after the passing of his wife, Joey, in March 2016 . In January 2021, he released his first solo album, Gentle Man, under Gaither Music, marking a deeply personal return to recording .
The lead single from Gentle Man is Feek’s rendition of “The Times They Are a‑Changin’”, released January 22, 2021 . Produced by Ben Isaacs and Matt Johnson, his version captures the song’s spirit of resilience amidst upheaval—infused with the authenticity of his small-town life and recent personal loss . Feek has shared that despite being born years after Dylan’s original, he felt the song’s message as if it “was written especially for today,” evoking both personal and national reflection .
The accompanying music video highlights community and shared experience, featuring neighbors of all ages and illustrating change’s universal impact . Through his rendition, Feek maintains fidelity to Dylan’s stirring call for awareness, while infusing it with a modern, compassionate perspective shaped by grief, hope, and renewal.