When the collaboration between the iconic songwriter Bob Dylan and the contemporary pop star Post Malone was first set in motion, excitement buzzed in the air. It was a fusion of musical eras that held immense promise. Yet, as time passed, the fervor diminished, leaving many wondering: how did this once-promising partnership fall apart?
Several years ago, Michael Cash, a producer situated in Woodstock, New York – a town steeped in Bob Dylan’s legacy – conceptualized an idea with substantial potential. Reflecting on a relatively obscure project from the mid-2010s called “Lost on the River: The New Basement Tapes,” Cash was inspired to amplify the concept. This initial endeavor involved artists like Elvis Costello, Rhiannon Giddens, and Marcus Mumford recording songs based on newly discovered Dylan lyrics. Cash, predominantly rooted in hip-hop, saw an opportunity to expand this notion further. He envisioned a collection of Dylan tracks reimagined by modern-day artists such as Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Post Malone. Collaborating with T Bone Burnett, who produced the original project, Cash’s vision gained traction. He aimed to create an album that breathed new life into Dylan’s lyrics within a contemporary musical landscape.
Cash initiated contact with Jeff Rosen, Bob Dylan’s long-time representative, proposing the idea of Post Malone covering a Dylan song. Malone’s admiration for Dylan, evidenced by a Dylan tattoo on his bicep and a pre-fame cover of Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right,” caught Rosen’s attention. After weeks of anticipation, Cash received the green light. Rosen conveyed Dylan’s willingness to craft a song specifically for this endeavor.
On November 18, 2020, Cash received the lyrics for “Be Not Deceived.” The song explored themes of innocence lost and the struggles of disenfranchised youth finding their way in a leaderless world. Cash was captivated by the poignant beauty of Dylan’s words. A connection was established between Cash and Post Malone, who, upon hearing the lyrics, was moved to tears.
Located on a tranquil country lane, Cash’s Woodstock studio provided the backdrop for recording the song. Malone, accompanied by his mother, girlfriend, and a film crew, delved into the creative process. Although he harbored hopes that Dylan himself might attend the sessions, Cash expressed skepticism about the reclusive artist’s presence. Nevertheless, the recording session was productive, with Cash, Malone, and a team laying down a version of the track.
Yet, the project hit a stumbling block. Despite making significant progress, Malone’s commitment waned, and the song remained unfinished. Efforts to reignite Malone’s enthusiasm proved futile. The anticipation that had once fueled the collaboration transformed into uncertainty and stagnation. Eventually, Dylan’s team decided to retract the lyrics.
What precipitated this downfall remains shrouded in mystery. Post Malone remains silent on the issue, while Cash alludes to a lack of clear communication and unmet expectations. While Cash had envisioned a complete album of Dylan collaborations involving renowned artists like Drake, the project was never realized. He continues to hope for the completion of “Be Not Deceived” and the restoration of rights to use Dylan’s lyrics.
In retrospect, Cash reflects on the experience with a mix of disappointment and philosophical acceptance. The collision of two musical worlds that initially held immense promise ultimately spiraled into a surreal and unrealized venture. While the collaboration’s demise is disheartening, Cash remains optimistic that the work of two influential musicians will eventually find its way to the public, a testament to the power of artistic expression transcending eras.
