
In 1962 Bob Dylan wrote one of his most famous songs, entitled 'Don't Think Twice (it's alright)'. Loosely based on an older song called 'Who's Goin' To Buy Your Chickens When I'm Gone'. The song had been taught to Bob Dylan by singer Paul Clayton who has also adapted the song into a creation of his own. The original liner notes called the song a 'Statement that you can maybe say to make yourself feel better... Like you were talking to yourself'. Nat Hentoff could scarcely have known how true that statement was. A sentiment that maintains some responsibility for the song's popularity today.
The lyrics have been known to change slightly depending on which version you're listening to. There has also been some debated as to who played guitar on the original recording. Some contend that Bruce Langhorne played on the original version, but Dylan historians offer disagreement and back it up with video footage of Dylan playing the challenging finger picked parts.
Irregardless of who played it, or what list of people deserve the writing credit; this is a very powerful song. It's been licenced for tv and film numerous times, and it lends an added element of emotion to a story, not too far from Nat Hentoff's ideas about it. In addition the song has been covered by countless artists, ranging from Peter, Paul, and Mary in 1963 to Kesha in 2012.
Don't Think Twice It's Alright [Bob Dylan 1962] from Dan Pick on Vimeo.