Bob Dylan's revolutionary influence on 1960s culture made him an enduring hero to John Mellencamp, who spent his early career performing Dylan covers extensively in bars. When the two eventually met and became friends, Mellencamp was delighted to establish a personal connection with the songwriter he regarded as the supreme practitioner of the craft.

Their friendship took an unusual turn when Dylan began contacting Mellencamp late at night to read lyrics from works in progress. Mellencamp eventually asked Dylan to stop these calls, explaining that his genuine admiration for all of Dylan's output made him unsuitable as a critical sounding board. Despite this awkward moment, Mellencamp has expressed continued gratitude for the friendship and his relationship with a musician he continues to consider without peer.