Bob Dylan - When the Ship Comes In Lyrics

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who inspired Bob Dylan to write 'When the Ship Comes In'?

   The song was inspired by an incident where a hotel clerk refused Dylan a room due to his unkempt appearance. Joan Baez vouched for him, and this experience, combined with influences from Brecht and Weill's 'Pirate Jenny,' led to the creation of the song.

2. When was 'When the Ship Comes In' written?

   'When the Ship Comes In' was written in August 1963. Bob Dylan wrote it in a hotel room after being denied entry due to his appearance.

3. Which artists have covered 'When the Ship Comes In'?

   'When the Ship Comes In' has been covered by several artists, including Peter, Paul and Mary, who released it as a single in 1965, and The Pogues on their album Pogue Mahone.

4. What notable performance featured Bob Dylan singing 'When the Ship Comes In'?

   Bob Dylan performed 'When the Ship Comes In' during Live Aid on July 13, 1985. He was accompanied by Keith Richards and Ron Wood of The Rolling Stones.

5. How did critics react to Peter, Paul and Mary's version of 'When the Ship Comes In'?

   Critics praised Peter, Paul and Mary's version of 'When the Ship Comes In.' Billboard described it as an exciting rouser with an outstanding performance by the trio. Cash Box called it a rhythmic, fast-moving bluesy ditty with a warm-hearted theme.

6. What is unique about the lyrics and meter of 'When the Ship Comes In'?

   The lyrics and meter of 'When the Ship Comes In' are remarkably similar to those in the first six stanzas of the Egyptian Great Hymn to Aten from around 1500 BC, which celebrates the rising sun.