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nice

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mmmmhmm well james i liked ur poem i think it is beautiful. u said u have written more. u should blog them. or u could do what i do and just blog part of them if u don't want to give it all away.

glad y'all enjoying - don't forget he's another pool player too

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hey all,

i been reading these post things. i always stay away from fan clubs. i got here by default. kinda surprised by a lot of what i'm readin'. don't get me wrong, i'm glad evryone's enjoying the shows. the thing i wanted to mention is that i detect some kind of subconscious idol worship beneath a lot of what's writ. maybe i'm wrong. the thing is he's a regular guy {and crazy too} with an exceptional developmental expressional interpretive style heralding from a hundred plus years of folk blues gospels. ya all can do what he does, in yer own way. hanging w/ him, playing pool, and joking is the guy i know. a crazy loon too. that's no disrespect, he's the first to admit it. this i guess is the other side of the worker, most don't see. he's especially wonderful with children. treats 'em fine with love. i have a friend when startin' her career when he showed up to see her. later, backstage, he came in, she asked him to stand in a foto w/ her, he was shy, and she said, "oh guys, f*** him, take pics of me." the next week they were on the cover of the village voice. an' ya know what....years later after her fame, he came back asking her to open shows for him in a few cities, and more. if you ever pass by the guy, just say hello, nice to see ya and keep on your journey. don't stop to shake hands for god's sake. he'll tell ya "uh, i'm not shaking hands today."

i guess, maybe the greatest thing is the inspiration or encouragement anyone might derive from the pleasure of appreciation of his work. one doesn't have to be stuck in a cubicle, unhappy working there. really man, i know times are tough. being a struggling writer/singer/whatever, not knowing where your next meal is coming from, well, it all works out if that's what yer callin' might be and ya believe in it.. im happy to see a lot of new introductions from our new denizens on the boulevard. that's somehow important.

ya'all writ good stuff...i enjoyed it. i guess i'm writin' this 'cause i'd love to see everyone's passion for a writer/singer bring the "you" to the table, work hard at your goals and see a new generation rise from these ashes, claiming our folk blues gospels heritages, and put it out there for the people. that's all. one's deepest appreciation could spur on the mystery of one's soul into communication for the people. if that happens, go small and stay away from the industry.

thanks, daffy duck

oh yeah, the guy who wrote that poem below: someone should tell him he's good and get over dylan and BEGIN with himself, that is, for his writin'.

glad y'all enjoying - don't forget he's another pool player too

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THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT.

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JUST GUITAR AND A BARKING BOX WRITING ON A MAILTRAIN WITH NO FAME
SOMETIMES I GET TIRED, YES TIRED, SO TIRED, OF THIS RUSTED STEEL AND ROSEWOOD GAME. WHERE'S THE BEAR MOUNTAIN PICNIC? WHERE'S MY GLORY HOLE JUST THE SAME. THIS TUNE SOUNDS A LITTLE STRANGE. WITH E AND G TUNED UP TO A B I'LL GIVE TICKETS AWAY FOR FREE. JUST AS LONG AS YOU CLIMB DOWN FROM THAT TREE. DONT MESS WITH NO BANJO SAID SHE. OR I'LL LET YOU TRADE MINE FOR ME. YOU KNOW SOMETHINGS HAPPENING HERE, BUT YOU DONT KNOW WHAT IT IS, DO YOU HP?
GREAT POEM MR HARMONICA P. HARMONICA'S CAN B VERY DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN THE WRONG HANDS.
I HOPE YOU'VE HAD PROPER TRAINING AND KNOW HOW TO OPERATE ONE SAFELY! I APOLOGIZE FOR BEING NONSENSEICAL TODAY. THATS A GREAT POEM BUT IT SURE IS A LONG ONE 2! MR. DYLAN USED TO TEACH ME HOW TO PLAY THE GUITAR BACK IN THE DAY AND I'VE ALWAYS BEEN A BIG FAN OF HIS WORK.
DO U NOTICE ANYTHING STRANGE ABOUT THE SONG "BALLAD OF HOLLIS BROWN"? THATS A LONG POEM 2! WELL TIME TO QUACKULATE SOME MORE SATTELITE ORBIT GEOMETRY. HAVE A HUGE DAY!

Wow!

5

I saw Dylan, along with Willie Nelson and John Mellencamp, in Allentown PA on July 14. The whole experience was beautiful. Being a resident of the Harrisburg area I originally was hoping they would be in Hershey, but the road trip and slight adventure of going to a new area proved to be more of a vacation for me. We went to Coca Cola Park, a brand new baseball field, built in 2006 which was absolutely beautiful and spotless. Food was surprisingly inexpensive, only $2 for a hot dog and $3.25 for fries, considering how much more it could have cost. There was great corn on the cob dipped in seasoning and butter, something new. Workers were extremely efficient, polite and sharp. There were lines but they moved quickly. The seating and field was spacious and comfortable. And as a woman I did not have to wait in line for the ladies' room (what a great investment they made!)
Wish I could have snuck in my digital camera (I wouldn't use a flash I promise) but oh well. Security was a little scrupulous, especially towards the end.
The evening started out with Willie Nelson, a big Texas flag behind him as the background. He sounded great, just about the same as the past. He played "You were always on my mind" so I was happy. What a beautiful day for a concert, the weather was just perfect. Sunny, clear and dry, comfortable outdoor weather. The setting sun shone on the stage and performers.
Then out came John Mellencamp. What a different experience to hear his songs live. I've heard him on the radio all the time but the same songs sounded so amplified and rich onstage. He looks great! There was a woman playing the violin, and I wondered if it was the same violinist as was on the Rolling Thunder Revue. It wasn't though bc her name was Maryanne not Scarlet Rivera. She was amazing though!
Then....the anticipation...The sun had set by the time Dylan was to come out. Blue lights illuminated the stage background and everyone cheered. Then the stage went dark and this dramatic classical music started playing, for effect. The band began appearing in the dark, and then the announcer introduced, well, you probably know if you've seen the show, they basically gave a short synopsis of Dylan's career and I don't remember what else was said because my brain was on cloud nine and suddenly the lights came on and Dylan started playing. He opened with Leopard-Skin-Pill-Box Hat. I see the song list at the beginning of this blog, and notice that it skipped Leopard Skin Pill Box Hat. ? Dylan wore a white hat with red flower on it, a black shimmery suit and red scarf. The band had on gray suits and hats. (do they wear the same outfits everywhere they go?) The colored light background changed with each song, simple but elegant. They played Highway 61, Rolling Stone, Don't Think Twice, and a lot of the new songs. My feet hurt from standing so long but it was so worth it. A nice day and evening made for a clear night sky, and it was great to be with all those people and Bob under the stars. I'd stay there all night if I could, until the sun came up, heck I'd be up for breakfast with Bob!

Summerfest

5

I'm seventeen. My parents raised me on their favorite music, and one of their most played artists was Bob Dylan. I always enjoyed hearing him, but I didn't fully comprehend the majesty of his work until I started listening on my own time. I've now been a fan for over a year (which, I'll admit, sounds incredibly short when put into words).

This was the fourth concert I've ever attended, but my first time seeing Dylan. It was also the first show I bought my own ticket for. Experiences like these prove unforgettable. Just like how I felt as a toddler sitting spellbound by the stereo, I experienced a similar sensation when Dylan and his band took the stage.

He is no longer the cherub-faced folk singer of the early '60s, and I didn't go there expecting that. I've heard and seen enough to know better. This is Bob Dylan, after all. He's changed so much throughout his entire career - in his style, voice, and even face - that it's unfair to try to typecast him into just one of these molds. At this point in time he's sixty-eight years old, has a wizened old growl of a voice reminiscent of legendary blues singers like Howlin' Wolf, and has rearranged his old songs into entirely new concepts. I've heard plenty of complaints about this, but if you go to a concert expecting to hear your favorite songs played note-for-note, you're better off staying at home in front of the turntable or stereo. As for his voice, Dylan uses what he's got masterfully and effectively. I have always liked his voice(s). Fans of his music should already be quite used to the out-of-the-ordinary.

There have been plenty of positive reviews on his best performances of the night, so I'll let those speak for themselves. I just want to mention one that seemed to have been overlooked. I'd never heard I'll Be Your Baby Tonight live until then, and I liked the way he sang it.

thanks for the input on my poem

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a couple of people have commented that they liked my poem. And even if Bob himself never sees it, and i'm still hoping he will, i appreciate the good feed back.

If you havent read the poem please do. it is just a few replys below this one title "Dylan at summerfest" with a poem titled "The Night I Saw You" My names is James Ketchum

if anyone wants to read my six page poem tittled "Ballad of Bobby Dylan" you can e-mail me and I'll send it to you. It is not as good as Bob, I'll never be able to write like him, but i think it's pretty good. Some of it's a bit corny but I put myself in it. Bob means everything to me and no one i know can understand why. I hope some of you out there get it- get what he's done and what he's said. I know he's no messiah, but I do think he's as close to one than any one else the world has seen in the last millenium or so

my e-mail-
harmonicapoet@yahoo.com

The night you saw HIM

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Maybe Bob didn't see your poem - I did - an like it very much

Keep On Keeping On - Frank

bad concert sound

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My friend saw him in London Canada about 2 years back and had same kind of experience. And I must say the same about a concert I heard nearly 30 years ago, in Hamilton Ont. Very disappointed by the sound, esp the first 4 songs were just noise...sad but apparently true. As a sound guy though, I will say it takes a few songs to get the sound right perfected...I'm an esp big fan of his gospel songs...esp the lyrics...extremely meaningful and insightful...and encouraging/uplifting.

Unforgettable

5

When it appeared that Bob would not be in Minnesota this summer, I decided to take a little road trip to see the first three concerts on the summer leg of this year's tour. I told my husband of my plans, and, surprisingly, he offered to go with me (he's not much of a fan but my obsession seems to have opened his mind and heart a bit over the past few years).

Our first stop was Milwaukee, and it did not disappoint. "Forgetful Heart" was the highlight for me, and I thought it was more powerfullyy delivered than on the album. Other highlights for me were "I'll Be Your Baby Tonight," "Po' Boy," "Highway 61 Revisited," I Don't Believe You...," "Love Sick," and "Jolene." It was a real treat to hear two songs from the new album.

Compared to last November (Minneapolis and LaCrosse), the sound system seemed vastly improved and the new keyboard had a much clearer and more distinctive sound. It's always great to see Bob animated and face the crowd. He seemed happy to be performing, and he connects better with the audience when he's happy.

North Country Girl

Lovely poem with a sentiment shared by many

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I really appreciated your poem, James, and believe it expresses what many of us who adore Bob feel. His passion and grace, while continuing to share his life journey, touch all of us who make the effort to pay attention - really pay attention. While I would have loved to follow him in the Rolling Thunder era, I'm happy to have the chance to see him at this period of his life.

North Country Girl

Beg To Differ

1

The show totally sucked! The whole concert sounded like zydeco. He did every song in a staccato-zydeco style. It all ran together. His voice sounded bad, it was too low. Song selection sucked, even when he played a good song like "I don't believe you" he had to do it in his new zydeco style. I am a huge Dylan fan - don't get me wrong but I feel the truth needs to be told. If he keeps playing like this I want to warn you ticket buyers what is coming. People around me were leaving in droves. Everyone one knows that Bob likes to change things but this time it came out terrible. I was really disappointed because I went because I had a feeling it would be one of his great ones - just the opposite.

Bob in Madison

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How did you know he was rehearsing at the Barrymore?? I work at the Concourse, and got word he was staying there Saturday and Sunday before the show, June 28 and 29, but did not catch a glimpse of him, but was def freaking out! The Milwaukee show was absolutely fantastic and one of the best i've seen in a few years. The song selection was perfect, Bob sounded great and the band was right on all night and just plain rocked, probably the best i've heard them since Larry played with him.

Summerfest with Bob

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This was my sixth time seeing Bob (first was January 3, 1974, in Chicago). He and his band were so tight, so good. The sound was very similar to the last two albums but even better. They were hot. Unfortunately, our seats were not good, so it was hard to feel connected. I was kicking myself for not buying them during the pre-sale. Still, I was glad I was there. Bob is still going strong.

Dylan at summerfest

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My name is James ketchum. Seeing Bob Dylan for the first time was a dream come true. I discovered him two years ago and fell in awe. And for the past two years dylan has been like my friend. I have no good father figure in my life but Dylan has been like that to me... like a father who will never know me. I have read a bunch of books written bout him including Chronicles. I have seen many videos of him and my favorite movie is I'm Not there. I wrote a six page poem about him and also wrote a song called Song To Bobby, a take on the first song he wrote

I also wrote this poem when I got home from this concert

The night I saw YOU

I saw you on stage in all your glory
I saw you continuing your life long story
I heard your voice graveled with age
I never saw you in your heyday but in this later stage

You seem like a king or an angel from my thoughts
You seem like a soldier who so boldly has fought
I was far but saw you clearly still
I stood on tip toes and took my fill

You sang with such passion you sang with such grace
And the ravages of nearly 70 years showed on your face

I yelled to you but was drowned by the crowd
I yelled and yelled but they were too loud

I will never forget the night I saw you
The night I watched as you did what you do

For years I’ll be speaking of this, the night I saw my friend
And though you’ll never speak directly to me, never know me or my name
I want you to know I’d follow you to whatever end
And I gladly gaze at you in you electrifying fame

I dont know if Bob dylan might read this, but I hope he does.

Milwaukee Concert, July 1

5

Third time I have been able to see Bob play. Great show, enjoyed the new material as well as the older stuff that was tweaked to give it a little different style. The band was tight.

Milwaukee Show Rocks!

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Bob and his band showed once again last night that they are the best band in the world. After several days of rehearsal at the Barrrymore Theater in Madison (what fun it would have been to be at those sessions!) the legendary Never Ending Tour continued with this show on the shores of Lake Michigan. Bob was in fine voice and the sound folks had both Bob and his keyboard/organ appropriately penetrating the airwaves throughout the night. You will see from the setlist that Bob pulled from the past and present to provide us with a fine performance. Thank you Bob for keeping on. See you on down the road again sometime soon.

Two from Together Through Life were part of this delightful evening. Forgetful Heart - this penetrating song shows off Bob's true crooning ability. Jolene was uplifting and fun. Keep it up Bob!

Dylan & Nelson show

5

Willie Nelson's and Bob Dylan's kick-off show in Milwaukee was fantastic! I wish the subsequent baseball stadiums that they're heading off to weren't all so far away from where I live (Saint Paul, MN).

This was the fourth time that I've been privileged to see/hear Bob Dylan and I have to say that he is a master showman. Bob's delivery of the music was powerful, his band was tight, and the light-show was put together very well. I loved hearing his new versions of some of his older standards, as well as hearing some new songs.

Bob Dylan rocks!

going july 4th in indiana...

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I was wondering what time the show ends. gotta catch a train back to chicago, and unfortunately the last train is at 9:40pm!! I would hate to leave in the middle of his set. also...the 4:30 gate opening for pre-sale tickets...how does that work? My ticket doesn't say anything special. just wondering =)

this was my first ever concert and i thought it was amazing.

5

I never really knew that bob could put on such a great seering show and only adressing the audience once! I was very eager to see the new songs from the CD and i loved seeing "Jolene" and "Forgetful Heart". I didnt evn know half the songs cuz im sorta new with bob dylan but ive heard of many. Bob was really on with the organ playing really funky fills the whole time. My favorite performance tho was highway 61 they just killed that song it made me like the live version more than the studio version. I hope to be seeing many more dylan shows in the future

this was my first ever concert and i thought it was amazing.

5

I never really knew that bob could put on such a great seering show and only adressing the audience once! I was very eager to see the new songs from the CD and i loved seeing "Jolene" and "Forgetful Heart". I didnt evn know half the songs cuz im sorta new with bob dylan but ive heard of many. Bob was really on with the organ playing really funky fills the whole time. My favorite performance tho was highway 61 they just killed that song it made me like the live version more than the studio version. I hope to be seeing many more dylan shows in the future

this was my first ever concert and i thought it was amazing.

5

I never really knew that bob could put on such a great seering show and only adressing the audience once! I was very eager to see the new songs from the CD and i loved seeing "Jolene" and "Forgetful Heart". I didnt evn know half the songs cuz im sorta new with bob dylan but ive heard of many. Bob was really on with the organ playing really funky fills the whole time. My favorite performance tho was highway 61 they just killed that song it made me like the live version more than the studio version. I hope to be seeing many more dylan shows in the future

Great Show

5

I thought this was the best show I've seen with this line up. Organ was turned up in the mix all night, Bob took center stage and delivered a very strong debut for Forgetful Heart, and the horn on Summer Days made for a different and enjoyable rendition of that song.

I enjoyed it all and thought it was a very strong performance. Bob's vocals were strong all night. I don't know exactly why, but I really liked It Ain't Me, Babe, the second song of the night, with Bob on guitar. I mentioned to my friend about half way through it, that I thought we were going to be in for a good one, and we were!

set list

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looks like dylan is off to a good start.
the kid

Jolene!!!!

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Jolene!!!!

stellar time

5

bob gave the impression of absolutely being in the moment, born to do this. even though this wasn't all ballpark show proper, this has been my favorite of the two dozen or show dylan shows i've seen. something about the first night of a new tour, the band new to me i hadn't seen before, the 2 breakouts (especially the very haunting "forgetful heart"), a fabulous "blind willie mctell," bob soloing a lot on guitar early on in the show, on piano late, really meaning it on both instruments, the best "honest with me" i've ever heard, and my favorite live "po' boy" ever. the weather cooperated beautifully. judging from this killer opening night, this could really be a spectacular tour.

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the whole world is my throne