When I read this, I thought to myself, Dylan's canvas is bigger, Joni's
strokes are subtler and more precise. (I just came home from a terrific
opening night party, so that statement may be meaningless even to me by
tomorrow morning ;-) Dylan has certainly been influential, but a large number
of significant writers have listed Joni as an influence too.
As for the student surpassing the teacher, a prime example is: Schubert
studied with Salieri.
I wouldn't want to qualify anyone as "the best," it's just that, for whatever
reason(s), I love more of Joni's songs than Dylan's, and love them more
deeply. Plus I love her singing - especially of her own material (he says
emphatically).
Others? I've been immersing myself lately in Tom Waits, who continues to
astound and challenge. When I listen to Blue Valentine (the song), I think I
would pay money to hear him sing A Case of You or Come in From the Cold. That
raspy voice is nothing but emotion.
Just some random thoughts....
Roberto
Jim L'Hommedieu wrote:
> Clearly the race for 'best singer-songwriter' is between Bobby and Joni.
> Did Dylan ever write ANYTHING as good as the "Last Time I Saw Richard"? I
> don't think so. I know Bob was more Influential by far. I also think that
> sometimes the Student (Joni) surpasses the skills of the Teacher (Bob
> Dylan). For me, Joni is THE best. Others?
> All the best,
> Jim L'Hommedieu
