A Surprise Start at the Outlaw Music Festival
After nearly seven decades of performing, music icon Bob Dylan is still finding ways to surprise audiences. At 84, he shocked fans at the Outlaw Music Festival in Saratoga Springs, NY, over the weekend by opening his set with “Positively 4th Street.” This marked the first time Dylan has used the song to begin a show since 1989.
A review on the blog Flagging Down the Double E’s called the rare song choice “a killer opening,” adding, “Bob really leaned into the growl, while still belting to the rafters.” Concertgoers quickly shared videos online, capturing the moment and drawing praise from fans who hadn’t heard the track live in decades.
Fans React Online
Comments on a TikTok video of the performance showed how impressed people were. Several viewers said Dylan’s voice sounded the “best” it has in years, while others admitted they were jealous they missed the historic moment. The energy and surprise set the tone for the rest of the night, proving Dylan can still keep audiences on their toes.
“Positively 4th Street” is considered one of Dylan’s signature songs. Recorded during sessions for his 1965 album Highway 61 Revisited, it wasn’t included on the record but was released as a single that same year. It quickly became a fan favorite and a notable part of Dylan’s catalog.
The Story Behind the Song
Over the years, the meaning of “Positively 4th Street” has been debated by both fans and music critics. Many believe the song was inspired by Edie Sedgwick, a well-known model and muse to artist Andy Warhol. According to Far Out Magazine, Sedgwick was rumored to have had a relationship with Dylan shortly before his marriage to Sarah Lownds.
The lyrics paint a sharp and personal picture of disappointment, making it clear the subject was not on good terms with Dylan at the time. One of the song’s most famous verses makes that sentiment clear:
“I wish that for just one time you could stand inside my shoes / And just for that one moment I could be you / Yes, I wish that for just one time you could stand inside my shoes / You’d know what a drag it is to see you.”
While Dylan has performed “Positively 4th Street” at various times over the years, bringing it back to open a concert after more than three decades made the night unforgettable for those in Saratoga Springs.
