In high school - that's when I first fell in love with his music and his voice. 'Blonde on Blonde' above everything. I vaguely remember 'Desire' coming out. I definitely remember 'Street Legal' and 'Slow Train Coming.' The first time I saw Dylan was on that tour: '79 in L.A.

In this quote, Todd Haynes reflects on his personal connection to the music of Bob Dylan. He describes how he first fell in love with Dylan's music and voice during high school, with "Blonde on Blonde" being his favorite album. Haynes goes on to mention other important albums in Dylan's discography, such as "Desire", "Street Legal", and "Slow Train Coming", highlighting his deep engagement with Dylan's work over time. The mention of seeing Dylan live in 1979 in L.A. further emphasizes the significance of Dylan's influence on him.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Haynes’s passion for music and film, as he is known for his work as a director and screenwriter, particularly in films that explore themes of music and culture. His relationship with Dylan's music was formative and is indicative of the role music plays in shaping personal and professional identity. Haynes’s reference to these particular albums shows how Dylan's evolution as an artist had a profound impact on him, both as a listener and a creative individual.

Haynes's mention of specific albums like "Blonde on Blonde" and his memories of hearing "Desire" and "Street Legal" signal the influence that Dylan had on him during his formative years. These albums represent important phases in Dylan's career, and for Haynes, they serve as markers of his growing admiration for Dylan's evolving sound. The inclusion of seeing Dylan live in 1979 further personalizes the connection, as it marks a significant event in his life as a fan of the artist.

Ultimately, this quote underscores how Bob Dylan's music became a touchstone for Todd Haynes during his youth, influencing both his personal tastes and his creative work. The quote not only highlights Haynes's admiration for Dylan but also shows the deep emotional and cultural connection that music can have on an individual, particularly during pivotal moments of their life.