This week’s song is timeless. It was written by Bob Dylan in 1967 and feels as fresh now as then. It’s about the cruelty of the criminal justice system. If anything, the federal criminal justice system is crueler today thanks to the Kaiser of Chaos and his icy secret police.

The song describes life behind prison walls with a protagonist who “swears he’s not to blame” and is “crying out that he was framed.”

Bummer, man.

We begin with the songwriter:

The Band assumed ownership of the song when it appeared on Music From Big Pink. It features a heartbreaking falsetto vocal by Richard Manuel.

Nina Simone. Say no more.

The Hollies bring their soaring harmonies to bear on the Dylan classic.

A bluegrass version from Earl Scruggs:

Next, Chrissie Hynde at Bobfest, 1992:

I Shall Be Released is essentially a gospel song, especially when crooned by Aaron Neville:

Speaking of gospel:

Finally, Wilco with Fleet Foxes:

That’s it for this week. Raise a glass to everyone who is standing firm against the wannabe dictator. It’s what Captain America would want. Never argue with him.