I think I screwed up and said Bobby instead of Eddie Cochran. I was so worried about pronouncing Alis Lesley's name correctly that i completely blew the easy one. All apologies to the 700 comments I'm gonna get about this over the next 10 years.

“The beauty of simplicity will never be surpassed…”~Earl Scruggs

I was fortunate enough to play “the old Violin” with Paycheck many nights for the month of October 1993. John sang it differently every night & each time nobody else could touch him! Our band was John,Jeff Little,myself, Dean Townsend,Hank Miles,Dennis Russell & the great Walter Haynes. We also did “in memory of a memory” each night. I’ll never reach that high again on stage in this life!

Johnny Paycheck needs to be in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Bob Dylan is a living national treasure. Enjoy him while he is still with us.

The 100 plus songs written and performed by Townes Van Zandt have no equal. A master who's birthday and death day still spawn tribute nights at music venues nationally and internationally. Life changing.

I remember seeing Townes many times walking around on 6th Street in Austin in the late 80s-early 90s. He was usually completely unapproachable because he was so effed up he was barely able to talk and unable to walk without either his wife or David Fuller aka Blaze Foley propping him up and babysitting him. He was a very sad, tortured soul with an incredible body of work. He was an immense talent.

Best part of the coffee table story is afterward, some one told Townes what Steve Earle said. Townes said, "If Steve really thinks that, he's never met Bob's security." Supposedly, when asked about it, Dylan said, " I don't even own a coffee table"

Bob was dead on when he said no one else comes close to Hank Williams. Very very few singers make me feel/ experience the emotion and feelings the song and singer are trying to convey like Hank. When Elvis said I’m so lonesome I could cry was the saddest song he’d ever heard was exactly what I had thought from the first time I heard it. I can visualize him sitting home alone with time crawling by no radio or TV just that train whining low and I can hear that train and his feeling so lonesome and wondering where the woman he loved was and when and if she was even coming home. You can feel his deep deep pain that can only be understood if you’ve experienced it. No other song I’ve ever heard that when I listen to it it’s like a movie playing in my head and the emotional pain that accompanies his loneliness. That song is more about the misery, pain , betrayal, sadness and heartbreak than being alone. I can see that moon and the robin and the darkness when he sees that shooting star. A masterpiece from in my opinion the greatest singer/songwriter that ever lived. As great a singer that he was it’s his writing that is even more brilliant. I marvel that anyone can express so many different feelings and emotions and situations with such simplesity and minimal amount of wording.His brilliance is his ability to use short simple words in such a way as to communicate to the listener a story with simple and and minimal amount of our language. And he died at 29. I feel privileged to have lived during a time of phenomenal events. Man on the moon, polio vaccine, technology beyond comprehension not 100 years ago thought impossible etc. I put Hank Williams on that list and there are great singers and writers but Hank, to me, just seems on a different level than anyone. Thanks for reading from Dylan’s book . It brought back so many memories. I guess it’s the mark of greatness and very few have/ had that ability.

At the first Buffalo Chip in 1982 Johnny Paycheck was in the RV next to ours drinking whiskey and snorting cocaine the entire night before. When it was time for him to play the festival organizers were worried that he would not be able to navigate the very steep stairs leading up to the stage and had ‘spotters’ posted every couple of feet ready to catch him if he fell. Johnny came staggering out of his RV (which was in a roped-off area behind the stage) as wasted as I’ve ever seen another human being who was still conscious. He stood at the bottom of those stairs for a solid minute before running up them like a squirrel up a tree and played a flawless show. I still don’t know how he did it.

Awe, what a gift-to find out Bob Dylan "got" Johnny Paycheck and realized who and what he was and is sharing him with the rest of the world. Thanks, Otis, I ordered the book from the digital library as you read.

I love when Bob talks about Townes. He revered him. Thanks for the book tip Otis. Copy on the way.

Dylan has written some of the most breathtaking love songs out there. Townes Van Zandt wrote many himself. Never seen Dylan but I have sat on the curb with Townes on Congress Ave. and listened to him ramble. He was friendly but I looked around and he had wandered off.

Wow! first of all I had no idea that Bob Dylan appreciated country music old artists! secondly not only an all-time great poet and songwriter, but also listening to this an Author/writer as well! Pulitzer Prize winner and truly iconic gifted piece of Americanna!

I've had a long and full life. I've even have a few experiences that make for a good story. But when I listen to you I feel like I don't know nothin' and ain't done a thing worth talking about. I guess that's because you followed your passion while I chased the almighty dollar. I did the sensible thing, I guess. But sensible only gets you so far. Most of the real joys I've had in life came from going against the grain. I only wish I'd done it more often. Thank you for sharing your stories, your friends, and your music. You're the real deal and I love you for that. ✌❤

Bob is right on mentioning Hank Williams singing Cool Water. I've heard a multitude of versions but Hank brought out things no one else even touches.

I have sent that version of Old Violin to friends and posted on email years ago. It is so heartfelt. I'm glad I share that opinion with Bob, he would know. Paycheck was the real deal.

Great stuff. I had no idea about Johnny Paycheck. Dylan sure deserved that Nobel Prize.

Amen on Bob Dylan. Best song writer who ever lived.

Thanks for this video. Dylan is a true American genius. He continues to give everything he can to the world. Can’t wait to find the book…

One more copy sold as soon as I can afford it. Thanks, Otis, for a relaxed, thoughtful, informative and entertaining journey through the musical mind of this genius

Bob is a master wordsmith. Hank could bring a tear to a wooden eye. Cheers!

hatt amazes me about Dylan is that for me he is the greatest, yet he embraces and idolises these guys and their tales like i embrace every tale I hear about dylan.

I've been following you since you first showed up on YT. I thonk this episode is one of your best. I like look of you sitting in your living room and the door and window behind you. Your commentary of what Dylan says about Jones, Paycheck, Nelson and Williams is excellent. You have really grown and matured in your delivery on YT. Keep up the iconic work!

You did a great job with that book review, I enjoyed your show , as I do most of them , thanks Otis !!!

Hey, Otis: How come I'm almost and not even almost moved to tears hearing Bob talk about Hank Williams, the Johnnys and Pete Townshend, too? And Willie Nelson! There's something very moving about all this.

Thanks for another great story Otis. I don't know Steve Earle, but I can tell you he's never stood on our coffee table.

Bob insightful as ever. Thank you.

Time well spent listening to Otis.

Here's the Paycheck video Dylan mentioned. It's pretty damn great. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/rL6PjcKXuNq7nZs.html

Ottis, your comment about the demo being better than the full studio recording is dead on! That's why going to jam sessions and open mic nights can be so great. Even if you don't play, every once in a while you'll hear and see great talent that hasn't been screwed with and molded

When I was reading that passage about ordering a BLT, I couldn’t help but think how amazing it is to get to read Bob Dylan’s impression of 2022 and how it compares to the past.

Thank you Otis. The brilliance of Paycheck has never been brought to life like you and Dylan did in this clip. I hope we all learn to appreciate the master that Paycheck was. Definitely one of the greatest to ever do it both writing and vocals.

Thanks for your insights…Dylan never stops inspiring!

Always appreciate what you have to share. 🏆

I love Dylan, his songs, his individualism and his willingness to experiment, but I was a little skeptical about another rambling coffee table book of an icon's opinions. Social media has made everyone a critic, and I prefer an intriguing story to someones greatest hits list. After listening to your reading, I was surprised on the strength of his prose. Bob is a story teller at heart and the word play and passion that makes Blowin In The Wind and Highway 61 seer in your brain works as well with his description of Johnny Paycheck. Thanks Otis sharing your musical life.

Since you asked, Steve Earle famously (or infamously) was quoted in some promotional materials included with a then-new Townes record as saying “Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world, and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that.”

Great book , I like that this great artist , that is some what mystical in his privacy, write s a book on his favorite artist songs , it makes him human and accessible on his views of other song writers. I was amazed on how my favorites are the same as his and how this artist views makes me love his song writing a lot more special and puts him in a light of a regular guy , like the rest of us .

very true. how many times have we heard the demo version of a song, and thought "why the hell didn't they just release that?" it's so much more honest and it makes you feel something

.... We all know how great Bob is, but this gentleman is really a smart, cool, well-spoken and highly-informed guy too...

Thanks so much for reviewing this book, Otis. I really enjoyed “Chronicles, Vol. 1” and was looking forward to volume 2. The man writes prose as well as song. Looking forward to digging into this one. Thank you for all the videos you’ve posted this year. Your channel is one of the rare gems of KZfaq.

Excellent. I generally don’t watch stories about famous people anymore. Dylan’s music has always touched my soul, and this video explains who touched his. Thank you!

I of course love Johnny Paycheck and cover both him and Blue Bayou so of course the Grand Poobah of song is a great vindication. When Steve Earle praised Townes I am sure Bob would agree while Steve stood on his coffee table. Townes wrote the most unabashedly forlorn songs that gave little resolution, and scant advice. He just let you feel the emotion and that was all. The song of Townes that kills me and I have been playing for a while is At My Window. It spells out a day with another spent just allowing time to pass with no big plan or agenda. Townes did poetry similar to Bukowski in that the language was simple but moved you. Songs to me are like books or stories in 4 to 5 minute journeys. When all there was was radio I think the images of songs had a more stark background. Dylan understood how much the power of song can transport you out of your space into a world you really belonged in. A good song makes any background better.

Really happy I came across this video Otis. Great job!👏👍

Thank you once again Otis. Bless you sir, bless you.

i enjoy your channel so much. i really love hearing people talk about their jobs or passions and sharing that. i could talk about my job (an interesting one to me) all day with stories of people and the jobs we do so when i hear others i find it captivating. people are so interesting . you do a great job so thank you. you have a wonderful way of speaking and your love comes through. thank you again.

Otis I’ve been home from work due to some health issues for the past few months and please know I look forward to your content and hearing your music. Really takes me away and truly makes me feel better. Cheers and thank you !

This was great and I'm looking forward to reading the book. Thanks Otis!

Beauty episode Otis. The way you bring them all together is inspiring. We met Johnny Paycheck once on the Ian Tyson Show. At the time I didn't know much beyond Take This Job. Thank you for previewing the book. It's on the to buy list now. Listening to the whole episode now.

Bob is a real historian of music it's one of the reasons he was so successful.some times to know were your going you have to know were you come from.

this book has been on my radar. excited to hear this! thanks!

Thank you Otis!

Enjoyed your vid so much, and listened to some Johnny Paycheck tunes afterward. Thanks!

My dad, Eddie Adam's AKA Grizz Sawbuck worked with Paycheck on and off for many years. The old Violin was actually produced or being produced as early as 1983. My dad had the copy off the master duplicated on a cassette in 1983. Only the foundation of the cut was on it at the time. Keyboard, bass, drums, and guitar were on the track at that time. Another cut, I'm a Survivor was on it as well. It wasn't until he was in prison it was realesed by Mercury Polygram. Paycheck was a unique individual. The Edgar Allen Poe of Country Music. Little Darlin cuts were his best. My family worked with him and George Jones. Paycheck and all my family grew up in Greenfield/ WCH, Ohio area. He is well deserved to be in the Country Music Hall of fame . Not only Dylan, but George Harrison liked him as well. Elton John , and even Elvis. Yes !even Elvis invited him to dinner in Vegas. Wayne Newton never had a night off, one night he just happened to not be working for some reason , he immediately went over to hear Paycheck and wanted to listened to his band. Paychecks band was amazing. Gary Adams lead, Don Adams front man and bass, Steve Marple on drums, Dave Grey trumpet, Doug Jernigan steel, and Paul justice on fiddle. Paycheck was a singers singer. I'm glad he is finally getting the recognition he deserves.

Thank you For Your Hard Work!

This book easily qualifies for a prominent spot on my bookcase! Thanks Otis!

I have been reading this book myself, and the experience thus far have been uneven. To my mind, there are several stream of consciousness swings and misses. Your video encapsulates some of the home runs. Watching it has given me a fresh perspective on the chapters relating to Townes and Hank, and I now look forward with great anticipation to reading the chapter about Johnny.

that was a great 17 minute watch ! thank you I read the audible now reading the book text then may listen one more time it’s that good

anything about Bob Dylan, I love

Johnny figures in one of my favorite Nashville stories. Brent Mason tells of a 10:00 AM Johnny Paycheck session where the band shows up and there's no Johnny. The producer comes in and says: "Guys, come back tomorrow. Johnny flew in from Dallas and forgot to pack his false teeth, so he can't form words clearly. They're FedExing them in overnight."

Thanks Otis. Story Time was refreshing, well done.

Otis-I can’t wait to read Bob over the holidays and now your thoughtful review is making the wait more difficult!

This is why I truly have a love for all genres of music. The greatest songs come directly from the heart. Certain rhythms, sounds, or means of presentation may appeal more to my ears, but genuine feeling shines through.

New to your page, Otis. I love all the stories. I've got a lot of catching up to do. Bravo!

Excellent. Thank you

That was a particular moving version on this episode, Otis. I really enjoyed it, really special You have a way of telling a story like no other...

Very much enjoyed your video, especially your voice work, reading dynamic, subject matter speaks for itself. Thanks

Thanks for the word. I've been looking for something to read.

Another great video Otis. I am going to have to check out that book. I am always interested in Bob's takes when it comes to songs and songwriters.

I’m gonna grab that book and keep it on my coffee table. Thanks for the killer review

Outstanding video review. Thank you, Otis.

Thank you Otis for your Modern Sings readings. You made me want to read the bk. I’am old enough that I’ve heard most of the songs and artists that Dylan show cases in the bk so I guess I’d better get the book. Thanks, again.

Great video. Sounds like a great book. Bob Dylan is the perfect person to write such a book. Will make sure to buy a copy

You just introduced me to a great new book to read!! THANKS!!!!!

Thanks for this, and thanks for introducing me to Ray Wiley, I’m SO enjoying his music now.

Very enjoyable & from the sound of it I'm completely with Bob's philosphy on what makes music & artists great. Looking forward to getting the book.

Great show !! So much heartfelt quotes & information. I, typically, enjoy your content with a cup of coffee. Today, this afternoon, I enjoyed a good bourbon & coke with a good smoke. Thanks !!

Steve Earle has since backed down a bit in the coffee table comment in 2012 he said I was asked for a quote for a promotion for a TVZ album and I said it. He says in 2012 it's not that I actually thought Townes was better than Dylan I just thought that Townes needed the help.

Gotta get the book. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks Bob! Maybe now they will give Paycheck his due and put him in the hall of fame.

Dudes that’s crazy man, didn’t know Dillion was such a fan 😮Johnny paycheck belted out the hits, I loved the of the Merle songs he did also! R.I.P. Johnny Paycheck, legend! ✌️

Looking forward to this book. Thanks for the video.

I feel like a better person having heard this. Thank you!

I knew I should’ve bought it !! I seen this book yesterday when I was in a local record shop! You ever seen the tales from the tour bus? Johnny was a damn hoot! Can’t make that shit up! We love ya and we need, Uncle Otis!! Keep on keepin on! Thanks , again! ❤

The Old and In The Way is a somber and real reflection of growing old in the 2000's . A great read all the way through. Thanks for sharing

that shit about save the last dance for me just completely blew my mind

After a long time working tunneling undergrown I have got to hear some songs by Bob Dylan, i think he is good, and I will listen to more of his music

Wow.I must get that book.Superb job giving us the breakdown.

you sold me on the book..thanks..always enjoy your show

Great idea for a video man. I enjoyed it!

Otis, thank you so much for sharing this book. My understanding of the “signed yet unsigned” copies relate to Bob being ill, and he was unable to sing, but his publisher had all these orders for a signed copy. The publisher recommended that he use a machine which essentially allowed him to sigh, and their were multiple “pens” on a contraption, and each one signed a particular page. Dylan found out that these had been sold as “signed copies,” and he is in the process of reaching out to everyone that his people can find. He will send them a real signed copy if they will return their fake. People will sell anything on E-Bay, but to sell something that the Nobel Laureate is trying to make right would a sin against Dylan’s body of work, and his deep feelings for his fans who he respects to the point of making this effort to “make it right” to those fans. Dylan has a much dedicated heart to his fans than most of the musicians about whom he has written. This does sound like a great book, and too bad that there no more signed copies available! As always Otis, you’ve given us a great story, which includes many sub-stories within. Thanks! 😮

Thanks Otis

I bought the book on your recommendation. Thanks, Otis! I am enjoying it!!

Thank you Otis...I'm gonna buy a copy for sure. :)

Dear Otis Gibbs. Your music is wonderful and I love your video production of course, but MAN, your voice reading Bob Dylan's writings, I'd so love to hear you read the whole book. When I get the book, the voice singing the words to me in my head are going to be yours. So beautiful. Great job man.

Pay check was one of the first bands to play at Buffalo Chip in 82 or 83 he had missed his plane in rapid city, .but because he was wanted in a state next door. That's another story.. are cousin sent his number to him, on stage, they met a year before, became good friends.. John had gotten it, so he called em telling em he needed help they went got em brought em back to there home in Sturgis.. an Sturgis was still going on.. so i rolls up and he's has a joint in his mouth a beer in his hand and a bottle of jack in his left was singing camp fire songs.💥 Talk about blow your mind is a great memory one I'll never forget love your vids Mun major good👍 ..

Bob is a genius. (..thanks for putting this up. really enjoyed it).

Hey Otis, another fine presentation as always. I really appreciate what was said about the song Old Violin, and it's very true what Dylan says about how few if any could cover that song. The only person I could truly say captured the essence, phrasing and emotion of Old Violin was Darryl Singletary. The story goes that Darryl recorded it and wanted Johnny to do the recitation on it and get his blessing on it before he released it. Johnny however was in the hospital and near the end of his life, but managed to do the recitation before he passed away and also gave Darryl a big attaboy on his version. Give it a listen if you're so inclined someday. As always best wishes and continued success....Sincerely Hedrush✌️

I had purchased the book. Your review has inspired me to dig i to it, thx!

I had to pause this video and go listen to Hank Williams.