T h e A w f u l T r u t h
(how sweet life can be)
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Date |
7/7/87 |
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Subject |
"Soon" (G & I Gershwin) |
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Author |
Anonymous |
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Where You Can Hear It |
"You Don't Know Me" |
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Submitted |
8/2/99 |
One of my all-time favorite Dylan performances was at the Gershwin tribute, held at the Brooklyn Academy of Music in New York in 1987. Although it was only one brief song, "Soon", it was nevertheless a more enjoyable concert-going experience to me than an "ordinary" Dylan show. Unfortunately, the PBS broadcast of the event didn't do justice to Dylan's performance.
Firstly, the broadcast version edits out approximately 30 seconds of the harmonica solo at the end of the song, truly some of Dylan's best harmonica playing. Secondly, the broadcast doesn't capture the "mood" in the hall, which was one of great expectation and some nervousness, as Dylan was clearly out-of-place at such a show, alongside Tommy Tune and Drew Barrymore, etc. There was a distinct increase in audience mumbling and chatter before Dylan was announced to perform, everyone wondering what he would do and whether or not it would be "appropriate". Lastly, and most regretfully, the televised version ended as the song ended, omitting my favorite part of the show. When Bob finished singing, he stood center stage and bowed during his (quite lengthy) applause. Eventually, the applause just stopped, and Bob just stood there, center stage, apparently waiting for some cue as to where or when to exit. The audience realized the gaffe, and a big laugh came up from the entire hall. Then Bob, with a sheepish grin, quickly exited stage right, followed by laughter and applause.
It was the unpredictability of the event that made it more enjoyable, even "suspenseful" if you will, for me to attend than an "ordinary" show. Hopefully, though it's not likely, PBS will someday replay the show and not edit out some of Bob's best work.
another submission had this to say about the recording of "Soon" currently available:
" just so you know, you can hear "soon" on the four-cd set "you don't know me." it may also be on a new hard to find installment. i believe the recording on "you don't know me" is complete, as it ends with applause. the sound quality is lacking, though, akin to a microphone placed next to a tv speaker. still a fantastic performance and on of my favorites in the set…"