The Story Behind Rainy Day Women #12 & 35 By Bob Dylan And The Famous Phrase “Everybody Must Get Stoned”

March 21, 2025

Bob Dylan stood in the dim light of a small recording studio in 1966, feeling the weight of expectations on his shoulders. His voice echoed against the walls, raw and powerful, as he poured his heart into a new song. The world was changing fast—the voice of a generation was searching for new ways to express the hopes and frustrations of young people. It was during this time that Dylan crafted “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35,” a track that would soon become famous for its catchy refrain: “Everybody must get stoned.”

The song was not about what many thought at first; it wasn’t just a reference to drugs. Instead, it embodied the feeling of being overwhelmed by life’s challenges and seeking solace. Dylan, a master of wordplay, used double meanings to create layers within his lyrics. This ambiguity made the song both controversial and intriguing. As listeners began to dissect the lines, they found themselves questioning the very essence of existence and the pressures society placed upon them. It was as if Dylan was inviting everyone to share in his own struggles while boldly confronting the contradictions of life.

When “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” was released, it quickly climbed the charts but also sparked debate. Some hailed it as a rebellious anthem for the counterculture movement, while others criticized it as a celebration of drug use. Despite the controversy, Dylan remained steadfast in his beliefs and continued creating music that challenged the status quo. This courage to speak out through art not only solidified his position as a voice for his generation but also deepened his commitment to authenticity in his work.

Yet, the song’s impact reached beyond simple polarizations. It became a soundtrack for people feeling lost and seeking understanding. Thousands of fans sang along at concerts, their voices blending into one, creating a powerful sense of community. The phrase “Everybody must get stoned” transformed into a rallying cry, representing the idea that everyone experiences tough times but must find ways to uplift themselves. Dylan’s resilience shone through as he faced criticism and embraced the complexity of human emotion in his music, reminding listeners that they weren’t alone in their struggles.

This personal journey through creating “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” shaped Dylan not just as an artist but as a symbol of endurance. His lyrics became a mirror reflecting the challenges of life, while also offering a sense of hope. In times when the world felt heavy, Dylan taught that music could lighten the load. Through his work, he inspired countless individuals to confront their own realities and rise above them, proving that passion and resilience can create something beautiful, even from the rainiest of days.