The first double album in rock history, "Blonde on Blonde," released in May 1966, represents for its author (who doesn't even bother to put his name or the album title on the cover) the culmination of his rock period, which began with "Bringing It All Back Home." The album's genesis was quite turbulent. First, Bob Dylan was exhausted by the number of concerts performed (more than four per week) with the Canadian electric band The Hawks, and a world tour after "Highway 61 Revisited." The reception was often tense, with regular boos due to his "rock" direction, which disconcerted some of his fans. "Judas!" a spectator shouted at him in England. Only one song was recorded during the initial sessions in New York with The Hawks between October 1965 and January 1966. Producer Bob Johnston then suggested using CBS's studios in Nashville, convinced that their relaxed and peaceful atmosphere and the availability of their musicians would allow Bob Dylan to unleash his creativity. The suggestion scandalized manager Albert Grossman and the CEO of Columbia. However, Bob Dylan ultimately decided to follow this wise advice. From The Hawks, he kept guitarist Robbie Robertson, whose precise style he admired, and Al Kooper, the brilliant impromptu organist from "Highway 61 Revisited." The result was a stunning masterpiece far exceeding the level of Dylan's standards.
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