Listen To Bob Dylan’s Surprise Cover Of Chuck Berry’s ‘Roll Over Beethoven’
Bob Dylan live in 2006 - Reinoud Slagter / Youtube
Bob Dylan recently performed a surprise cover of Chuck Berry’s “Roll Over Beethoven” during a performance in Clearwater, Florida. He has been mixing things up during his current run of dates, dazzling audiences by delivering unique renditions of songs such as Johnny Cash’s “Big River” and his own “When I Paint My Masterpiece.”
Bob Dylan’s Musical Influences and Tour Plans
Dylan has publicly declared his love for Chuck Berry, calling him a “rock & roll songwriter.” In a 1987 interview with Rolling Stone, he said, “I never tried to write rock & roll songs ’cause I figured he had just done it.” Dylan felt that “a new generation had come along…it was an all-consuming way of life.”
Although several artists have covered “Roll Over Beethoven,” including The Beatles, Electric Light Orchestra, Carl Perkins, and Jerry Lee Lewis, this is the first time Dylan has covered the song.
Dylan’s current tour is set to conclude on April 6th in Austin, Texas, but he will be returning to the road soon afterwards. This summer, he is set to headline several outdoor shows across America alongside Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Robert Plant.
“I have to admit I’m really excited to be touring with Bob Dylan,” Willie Nelson said in a statement. “I’ve always admired his work and his music, and I cannot wait to share the stage with him.”
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Bob Dylan’s Bold Setlist Choices
Dylan is known for his non-traditional song arrangements and mixing up his setlists on tour. This has frustrated some fans, as evidenced by a fan shouting “Play something we know” during his performance in Fort Lauderdale earlier this month. However, Dylan responded in characteristically clever fashion by delivering a new arrangement of “When I Paint My Masterpiece.”
Clearly, Dylan is not content to just play the hits, and his love for Chuck Berry inspired his latest addition to his setlist, “Roll Over Beethoven.” Dylan has a deep respect for Berry’s legacy, and his willingness to take on one of Berry’s most famous songs shows how much he values rock & roll and its founding artists.
Bob Dylan’s cover of “Roll Over Beethoven” is yet another example of his willingness to take risks and push boundaries as a musician. His respect for Chuck Berry and his love for rock & roll have inspired him to deliver a unique, unforgettable performance. Dylan’s current tour may be coming to a close, but it’s clear that he has no intention of slowing down anytime soon.
