← Back to Songs
BLESSING SONG

Forever Young

From Planet Waves (1974)

Key: G Major Tempo: 70 / 132 BPM Difficulty: Beginner Capo: None

Featured Performance

Live with The Band

The Story Behind the Song

Written for his son Jakob (later of the Wallflowers), the song exists in two versions on Planet Waves: a slow, tender version and an uptempo rock version.

The song has become a graduation standard and is frequently performed at weddings and funerals. Its simple blessing structure gives it universal appeal across generations.

Guitar Chords

Chords used:

G C D Em

Playing Tips:

  • • Key of G Major, no capo needed
  • • Tempo: 70 / 132 BPM - practice with a metronome
  • • Difficulty: Beginner

More Performances

Quick Facts

Written:
1973
Recorded:
November 1973
Released:
1974
Length:
4:57 / 2:48
Producer:
Rob Fraboni

Official Lyrics

Read the complete lyrics on Bob Dylan's official website.

View Lyrics →

Notable Covers

  • The Band 1976
  • Joan Baez 1977
  • Audra McDonald 1998
  • will.i.am 2012

Recognition

  • • Graduation ceremony staple
  • • One of Dylan's most beloved songs

Related Songs