Eric Burdon has said Bob Dylan does not possess a conventionally great singing voice, but argued that this does not lessen his importance as an artist. The Animals frontman’s remarks matter because they distinguish technical vocal ability from the capacity to communicate meaning and move an audience.

Speaking about the expectation that pop stars should have polished voices, Burdon said rock ’n’ roll belongs to everyone and that anybody can sing or deliver a message. He credited Dylan’s impeccable timing, songwriting and the emotional force of his words, saying these qualities reach listeners’ hearts more than the manner in which he sings them.