On this day in music history: October 21, 1970 - “New Morning”, the 12th studio album by Bob Dylan is released. Produced by Bob Johnston, it is recorded at Columbia Recording Studios, Studio B & Studio E in New York City from June - August 1970. Issued just four months after the controversial and poorly received “Self Portrait”, Dylan will emerge with a much more coherent and tightly produced album that will be attract raves from both critics and fans. Some will speculate that the album is rushed out in response to the negative backlash that Dylan receives following the release of “Self Portrait”, when most of “New Morning” had been recorded prior to the release of “Portrait”. It will produce the classic “If Not For You” which will also be covered by George Harrison on his solo debut “All Things Must Pass” and a version by Olivia Newton-John will be her first US hit in 1971. “New Morning” will peak at #7 on the Billboard Top 200, and is certified Gold in the US by the RIAA.