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PROTEST EPIC

Hurricane

From Desire (1976)

Key: A Minor Tempo: 160 BPM Difficulty: Intermediate Capo: None

Featured Performance

Official Audio

The Story Behind the Song

This 8+ minute protest song tells the story of boxer Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, who was wrongly convicted of murder. Dylan visited Carter in prison and co-wrote the song with Jacques Levy.

The song helped bring attention to Carter's case, though he wasn't released until 1985. Dylan performed it on the Rolling Thunder Revue tour with violinist Scarlet Rivera providing the signature sound.

Guitar Chords

Chords used:

Am F C G Em

Playing Tips:

  • • Key of A Minor, no capo needed
  • • Tempo: 160 BPM - practice with a metronome
  • • Difficulty: Intermediate

More Performances

Quick Facts

Written:
1975
Recorded:
July 1975
Released:
1976
Length:
8:33
Producer:
Don DeVito

Official Lyrics

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

View Lyrics →

Notable Covers

  • Willie Nelson 1983
  • Live performances only primarily

Recognition

  • • Dylan's last major protest song
  • • Featured in 1999 film 'The Hurricane'

Related Songs

  • More songs coming soon