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Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid

by Bob Dylan

Released: July 13, 1973

Country rock, folk rock, film score

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid" is Bob Dylan's twelfth studio album and his first soundtrack album, released on July 13, 1973, by Columbia Records to accompany the Sam Peckinpah film of the same name. Dylan also had a cameo appearance in the film, portraying the character "Alias". The soundtrack primarily features instrumental music that was inspired by the movie itself.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

The song has since become one of Dylan's…

The song has since become one of Dylan's most recognizable and enduring compositions.

The album remains a pivotal entry in Dylan's…

The album remains a pivotal entry in Dylan's discography, blending his distinctive musical style with the cinematic atmosphere of the Western genre.

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Bob Dylan - Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid

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Reception

The album is notable for its iconic track "Knockin' on Heaven's Door", which became a significant hit, reaching the Top 20 charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. "Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid" achieved commercial success, certified gold by the RIAA, and peaked at No. 16 on the US charts and No. 29 in the UK.

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The Complete Album Story

The album is notable for its iconic track "Knockin' on Heaven's Door", which became a significant hit, reaching the Top 20 charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. The song has since become one of Dylan's most recognizable and enduring compositions.

"Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid" achieved commercial success, certified gold by the RIAA, and peaked at No. 16 on the US charts and No. 29 in the UK. The album remains a pivotal entry in Dylan's discography, blending his distinctive musical style with the cinematic atmosphere of the Western genre.