Experience Bob Dylan’s Incredible Farm Aid Performance in Pro-Shot Video

## The Legacy of Bob Dylan at Farm Aid

Forty years ago, Bob Dylan’s spontaneous remarks during Live Aid sparked the creation of the first Farm Aid, orchestrated by notable artists like Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp in Champaign, Illinois. Recently, Dylan made a significant return to the Farm Aid stage to commemorate its 40th anniversary at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

### Anticipation Surrounding Dylan’s Performance

Dylan’s participation in the event was announced just days prior, leading to speculation about his performance. Fans wondered whether he would collaborate with his usual road band or replicate his surprise set from 2023 alongside parts of the Heartbreakers. Questions also arose about whether he would show his face, maintain his signature hoodie, or allow for projections of his performance.

Ultimately, Dylan donned the hoodie in a less concealing manner than in previous shows and permitted both projection screens and a livestream, a notable shift given his past tendencies to remain hidden from the audience. Although the stage was dimly lit, making it difficult for many in attendance to see him clearly, these adjustments were significant for Dylan’s appearances over the years.

### A Setlist of Classics

The performance featured a condensed selection of songs from his Outlaw show, including fan favorites like “All Along The Watchtower,” “I Can Tell” (a Bo Diddley cover), “To Ramona,” “Highway 61 Revisited,” and “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.” Intriguingly, Dylan opted not to perform “Maggie’s Farm,” a staple in his previous Farm Aid appearances.

Earlier that night, Margo Price had already taken on the classic, performing it alongside Billy Strings and Jesse Welles.

### A Star-Studded Lineup

Dylan joined an impressive lineup at Farm Aid, which featured artists such as Kenny Chesney, Waxahatchee, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Steve Earle, Lukas Nelson, and Wynonna Judd. Notable board members, including Neil Young, John Mellencamp, and Willie Nelson, also took to the stage.

Following Dylan, Neil Young delivered a passionate performance that began with his politically charged song “Big Crime,” followed by powerful tracks including “Rockin’ In The Free World” and “Old Man.”

### Closing Celebrations

Willie Nelson closed the evening with a set filled with iconic songs, inviting many guests from throughout the event to join him for renditions of “Will the Circle Be Unbroken?” “It’s Hard To Be Humble,” and “I’ll Fly Away.” Bob Dylan, however, was the only notable guest who chose not to participate in this closing celebration.

What are your thoughts on Bob Dylan’s return to Farm Aid and the impact of his performances over the years?