All Along the Watchtower

About this song

Hendrix recorded his version as a cover of Bob Dylan's song of the same name, rewriting the music to expand and highlight the meaning of Dylan's lyrics. His arrangement drastically changes the song's instrumentation, and it is known for the solo that comes before the final verse.

What it's about

The song is built around a cast of characters from princes and businessmen to plowmen, servants, a joker and a thief, presenting many viewpoints that make up everyone's reality. Its conversation hints at tension between these realities and at the futility of trying to decide what is right and wrong.

Fun facts

• It's actually a cover of “A”.
• Sampled in 3 other songs, like “Rockman Rock (Parts 2 And 3) by The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu”.
• Covered 6 times, including “All Along the Watchtower by Frank Marino & Mahogany Rush”.
• Written by Bob Dylan.
• Produced by Jimi Hendrix.