'Was an error in judgment': Bob Dylan apologizes to fans for sending machine-signed copies of book, artwork
MALIBU, CALIFORNIA: Grammy award winner, Bob Dylan, 81, has admitted to making a mistake after fans received limited edition copies of his new book, 'Philosophy Of Modern Song' with automatic signatures rather than handwritten ones as promised. Dylan while acknowledging it was an "error of judgment" also expressed "deepest regret" for the gaffe.
Dylan made a rare public statement on Friday, November 25. The Lifetime Grammy honorary who has released 29 studio albums, addressed to fans and followers and revealed in a Facebook post that he began using a mechanical autopen in 2019 after he developed a bad case of vertigo.
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"I’ve been made aware that there’s some controversy about signatures on some of my recent artwork prints and on a limited-edition of Philosophy Of Modern Song. I’ve hand-signed each and every art print over the years, and there’s never been a problem," the 'Blowin' in the Wind' singer wrote on Facebook. He continued, "However, in 2019 I had a bad case of vertigo and it continued into the pandemic years."
Fans of the star had paid $600 for what was supposed to be a hand-signed copy of 'Philosophy Of Modern Song', which was published on November 1 and is the first new writing from Dylan since 2004. The book contains more than 60 essays focusing on songs from other artists like Hank Williams and Nina Simone, reported People.
Dylan said he had developed vertigo in 2019, and when the pandemic happened shortly after, it became impossible for him and his team of five to take part in signing sessions as he had in the past. "However, in 2019 I had a bad case of vertigo and it continued into the pandemic years. It takes a crew of five working in close quarters with me to help enable these signing sessions, and we could not find a safe and workable way to complete what I needed to do while the virus was raging," his statement read further. "So, during the pandemic, it was impossible to sign anything and the vertigo didn't help."
Dylan said eventually someone suggested he use an autopen to help make sure he met his deadlines, and that he was assured autopens were frequently used in similar situations. "With contractual deadlines looming, the idea of using an auto-pen was suggested to me, along with the assurance that this kind of thing is done 'all the time' in the art and literary worlds," he wrote. "Using a machine was an error in judgment and I want to rectify it immediately. I'm working with Simon & Schuster and my gallery partners to do just that." Dylan signed his statement, "With my deepest regrets," as per the report.
Dylan's book publisher, Simon & Schuster apologized and promised a refund on November 22, as they said in a statement. "To those who purchased THE PHILOSOPHY OF MODERN SONG limited edition, we want to apologize. As it turns out, the limited edition books do contain Bob's original signature, but in a penned replica form," the statement read. "We are addressing this immediately by providing each purchaser with an immediate refund," it further read.
The statement from the legend was taken in a positive light with many fans reacting to the post. Some among them said, "Let’s let this sink in, folks: BOB DYLAN has taken the time to reach out to us to take responsibility and apologize for what might have upset some of us. An absolute worldwide legend, having sold 100M+ albums over SEVEN DECADES. In these times, when it’s often more about being famous than having the courage to stay the course on one’s artistic vision while managing to stay utterly relevant artistically and culturally, Mr. D, in a remarkable display of humility, reminds us that the only gift he’s given to the world that surpasses his once-in-my-lifetime talent is his simple, grateful, respectful humanity. What an example. Wow."
Another user commented, "I must admit my heart skipped a beat when I saw his post. I know it’s really him and not the usual imposter. Now I love Bob Dylan and cherish all his work but wouldn’t pay a lot of money to have him autograph it even if I could afford it. So I just can’t relate to all this drama. He did what he thought best during a tough situation. He graciously apologized and will make it right. Now go donate to charity." On wrote, "I hope your vertigo gets better! Love you no matter what."
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