5 Things to Know About Bob Dylan's Desire Album

Columbia released Desire on January 5, 1976. It was Dylan’s 17th studio album and a follow-up to Blood on the Tracks.

The album features a distinct sound driven by violin. Scarlet Rivera’s violin work gives the record a raw, gypsy-like energy.

Dylan co-wrote most songs with playwright Jacques Levy. This collaboration was a first for Dylan and brought a theatrical edge to the lyrics.

Desire includes the epic 11-minute track “Joey.” The song tells the story of mobster Joey Gallo, though it takes liberties with facts.

The album was a commercial success, reaching number one on the charts. It sold over two million copies in the U.S. alone.