WASHINGTON _ Members of the Minnesota congressional delegation on Thursday celebrated native son Bob Dylan for his Nobel Prize.
Dylan, who was born in Duluth and grew up in Hibbing, was awarded the 2016 Nobel Prize in literature "for having for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition."
Democratic Sen. Al Franken highlighted Dylan's roots in the state, from when he played with the Grateful Dead at what is now Vikings Stadium 30 years ago, to having his likeness painted in Minneapolis.
"Bob Dylan is a renowned lyricist and musician, but he's more than that in Minnesota," Franken said in a Facebook post. "His history can be traced across our state, and he's a part of us."
Rep. Rick Nolan, whose district includes Hibbing, said it was "well-earned recognition."
"His words have helped shape social movements and define our American tradition," he said.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar said Dylan's Minnesota roots were clear in songs like "Girl from the North Country."
