Exploring Bob Dylan's Concert Legacy: Behind the Scenes at the Going Electric Tribute Concerts
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Recently, Tulsa's iconic Cain's Ballroom, once graced by Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, hosted the electrifying concerts Going Electric: An Evening of Dylan Songs Circa '65. Presented by the Bob Dylan Center to coincide with their exhibit of the same name, the two shows featured a stellar lineup of musicians covering Dylan's songs from his "Momentum Years" of 1963-1966. The event was a tribute to the same period covered in the Center's exhibit, A Complete Unknown.
The star-studded lineup for the tribute concert was curated by music director Lee Ranaldo and Dylan Center director Steven Jenkins. As an exclusive backstage guest at Cain's, I had the privilege of spending the day with the artists, witnessing rehearsals, and interviewing each musician who graced the stage. From the early seated show to the late standing performance, I had a front-row seat to the magic that unfolded on stage.
In this behind-the-scenes look at the Going Electric concerts, you'll get insights and quotes from the artists themselves, along with video clips of their performances. Stay tuned for in-depth interviews with many of the artists in the upcoming "Bonus Track" Q&As, exclusively for paid subscribers. Join now to access these exclusive interviews and more.
The lineup for the concert was carefully curated to bring together a diverse group of musicians who shared a deep appreciation for Dylan's music. From Sonic Youth's Steve Shelley to Wilco's Mikael Jorgensen and Nels Cline, the house band was a powerhouse of talent. With singers like Robyn Hitchcock, John Doe, and Sunny War, each artist brought their unique interpretation to Dylan's timeless songs.
Rehearsals for the concert took place the day before the shows, with musicians coming together for the first time to practice their setlist. Despite the limited rehearsal time, the performances came together seamlessly, with each artist bringing their own flair to the iconic songs. From matching Dylan's varied meter to creating unique arrangements, the musicians poured their hearts into every note.
As showtime approached, the backstage area buzzed with excitement as musicians prepared for their performances. From last-minute chord changes to final wardrobe adjustments, the energy was palpable. With a delay due to the long will-call line, the audience eagerly awaited the start of the show.
The performances were a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan's music, with each artist bringing their own interpretation to his classic songs. From Emma Swift's powerful rendition of "Queen Jane" to John Doe's spirited take on "Maggie's Farm," the concert was a celebration of Dylan's timeless artistry. With each artist sharing their personal connection to the songs, the evening was a tribute to the enduring impact of Dylan's music.
In conclusion, the Going Electric concerts at Cain's Ballroom were a fitting tribute to Bob Dylan's iconic songs from the '60s. With a lineup of talented musicians and heartfelt performances, the evening was a celebration of Dylan's enduring legacy. Join Flagging Down the Double E’s to stay updated on all things Bob Dylan and explore the rich history of his concerts.