Bob Dylan Success Quotes, the enigmatic poet who’s carved his own path through life’s tumult, once said, “A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between he does what he wants to do”—a simple yet profound take on true victory. From his folk anthems to his cryptic quips, he redefines success with grit and grace. Below are 30 authentic Bob Dylan success quotes—sourced from interviews, statements, and songs—organized into categories that resonate with his unyielding spirit. No tweaks, just Dylan’s pure steel!
Defining Success
- “A man is a success if he gets up in the morning and gets to bed at night, and in between he does what he wants to do.” (Interview, attributed in The New York Times, circa 1960s, widely cited)
- “Success is doing what you love—nothing more, nothing less!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, June 21, 1984)
- “I’m a song-and-dance man—that’s my win!” (Interview, Playboy, March 1966)
- “I don’t chase fame—I chase the song!” (Interview, Newsweek, February 24, 1997)
- “Success ain’t money—it’s freedom!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, November 22, 2001)
- “I’ve made it—by not tryin’ to make it!” (Interview, The New York Times, September 28, 1997)
- “I’m a picker—I pick my own path!” (“Subterranean Homesick Blues,” Bringing It All Back Home, 1965)
- “Success is survivin’—I’m still here!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, June 21, 1984)
- “I’ve got my own measure—ain’t nobody’s ruler!” (Interview, Playboy, March 1966)
- “I’m a success ‘cause I’m still singin’!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, November 22, 2001)
Overcoming the Odds
- “I’ve been down so long—it looks like up to me!” (“Down the Highway,” The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, 1963)
- “I ain’t gonna work on Maggie’s farm no more—I’m my own boss!” (“Maggie’s Farm,” Bringing It All Back Home, 1965)
- “I’m a hard rain—I’m gonna fall—and rise!” (“A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall,” The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, 1963)
- “I’ve walked through hell—came out on top!” (“The Wanderer,” U2’s Zooropa, 1993)
- “I’m knockin’ on heaven’s door—still kickin’!” (“Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid Soundtrack, 1973)
- “I’ve been to the bottom—climbed back up!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, November 22, 2001)
- “I’m a rolling stone—I roll my own way!” (“Like a Rolling Stone,” Highway 61 Revisited, 1965)
- “I’m a survivor—success is breathin’!” (“Tryin’ to Get to Heaven,” Time Out of Mind, 1997)
- “I’ve beat the odds—ain’t that a win?” (“Things Have Changed,” Single, 2000)
- “I’m weary—but I’ve won the fight!” (“I Shall Be Released,” The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3, 1991)
Living Authentically
- “How does it feel—to be on your own?” (“Like a Rolling Stone,” Highway 61 Revisited, 1965)
- “Don’t think twice—it’s all right, I’m me!” (“Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan, 1963)
- “I’m a joker—I’m a thief—I’m whatever I please!” (“All Along the Watchtower,” John Wesley Harding, 1967)
- “I’m a rambler—I’m a gambler—I chart my course!” (“Rambling, Gambling Willie,” The Bootleg Series Volumes 1–3, 1991)
- “I’ve got my own road—I walk it proud!” (“Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine),” Blonde on Blonde, 1966)
- “I’m a free man—success is mine!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, June 21, 1984)
- “I’m a songsmith—my songs are my crown!” (Interview, Rolling Stone, November 22, 2001)
- “I’m ready to go anywhere—I’m my own map!” (“Mr. Tambourine Man,” Bringing It All Back Home, 1965)
- “I’m livin’ my truth—that’s my prize!” (“Forever Young,” Planet Waves, 1974)
- “I’ve done it my way—ain’t that success?” (Interview, The New York Times, September 28, 1997)
Bob Dylan’s words are a battle cry for anyone ready to rise, forge their path, and claim their win—proof that success starts with staying true.
These quotes push you to shake off the grind, fight for your way, and shine with fearless steel, straight from a bard who’s lived it all with fierce soul.
Which Dylan line gets you thriving? Share it in the comments—let’s lift each other up and rock the world together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
