"New Morning" is the eleventh studio album by Bob Dylan, released on October 21, 1970, by Columbia Records. It followed the controversial Self Portrait and received a warmer reception from fans and critics alike, largely due to the return of Dylan's familiar singing voice. The album reached No. 7 on the U.S. charts and went gold, marking Dylan's sixth UK number one album.
The production process was somewhat rushed due to the negative feedback surrounding Self Portrait, although much of New Morning was already in progress before Self Portrait was released. Dylan recorded in various sessions, collaborating with musicians like George Harrison and exploring themes of love and life’s complexities. Notably, the album includes the successful track "If Not for You," which was later covered by George Harrison and Olivia Newton-John.
In Chronicles, Vol. 1, Dylan reflects on the album's creation, revealing that several songs were initially written for a musical adaptation of The Devil and Daniel Webster, though he ultimately withdrew from that project. The recording sessions involved both original compositions and covers, with some tracks being discarded in favor of others.
Despite being viewed as a lesser success compared to Dylan's later work,
New Morning is appreciated for its lyrical depth and has been regarded as a significant entry in his discography. The album captures a pivotal moment in Dylan's career as he navigated the complexities of artistry and personal expression.
