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Man Gave Names to All the Animals is a song written by Bob Dylan that appeared on Dylan’s 1979 album Slow Train Coming and was also released as a single in some European countries. It was also released as a promo single in US. The single became a chart hit in France and Belgium.

However, the song also has detractors who consider it the worst song Dylan ever wrote. A 2013 reader’s poll conducted by Rolling Stone Magazine ranked “Man Gave Names to All the Animals” the 4th worst Bob Dylan song, although the hit single from Slow Train Coming, “Gotta Serve Somebody” placed second. I love’em both.

Man Gave Names to All the Animals has been covered by multiple artists, I’ve picked three of my favourites.

Johnny Cash – Man Gave Name To All The Animals (demo, 1981):

Townes Van Zandt – Man Gave Name To All The Animals (from the album Roadsongs):

Johnny Borrell(Razorlight) – Man Gave Names To All The Animals (2013):

A now for a great version.
Bob Dylan – Man Gave Names To All The Animals (München 21 Juni 1991), some funky guitar here!

– Hallgeir