Bob Dylan Revives 59-Year-Old Deep Cut

Bob Dylan has embarked on his "Long Hot Summer Tour 2026," featuring a surprising return to his extensive back catalog. On the tour's second night in Woodinville, Washington, Dylan opened with "You Ain't Goin' Nowhere," a song he hadn't performed live since 2012. This followed his opening night's performance of "Baby, Won't You Be My Baby," a deep cut not played live in 59 years. The setlist shows minor adjustments between shows, with guest harmony vocals from guitarists marking a return to a practice phased out over two decades ago.

The tour's name, "Long Hot Summer Tour 2026," is noted from merchandise. The bill includes other artists like Lucinda Williams and the John Doe Folk Trio. Dylan's tour continues on June 7 in Woodinville and concludes on August 1 in Nashville. This focus on deep cuts from "The Basement Tapes" has prompted speculation and amusement, especially as Bruce Springsteen also recently performed a Basement Tapes standard live for the first time.