Mike Campbell: Farm Aid, Dylan & The Heartbreakers Legacy

Guitarist Mike Campbell is set to perform at Farm Aid in Virginia Beach, Virginia, marking a full-circle moment for the musician. In 1985, Campbell played Farm Aid's debut in Illinois with Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers, backing Bob Dylan. He previously recalled Dylan's performance of "Maggie's Farm" at that event.

Campbell's memoir details how he persuaded Dylan to tour with The Heartbreakers, rather than John Mellencamp's band, leading to the "True Confessions Tour." Now, years later, Campbell fronts his own band, The Dirty Knobs. They are currently touring in support of their fourth album, "Mission of Mercy."

Campbell, who spent four decades as Tom Petty's sideman, feels confident as a frontman. He describes The Dirty Knobs' performances as a "rock and roll soul healing," offering the audience a "great two-hour release from the wicked world." The band's sound is blues-rooted, distinct from The Heartbreakers, though they do play a few Heartbreakers songs.

Campbell views their concerts as a form of communal escape, akin to a church service. He tells audiences they belong to the band for the next two hours, encouraging them to forget external troubles and find beauty, bliss, and soulful healing through music.