Bob Dylan

A complete unknown, just like a rolling stone…

You’ve probably heard those words a million times. Maybe you’ve sung them at the top of your lungs in a dodgy Camden pub, whisky in hand, feeling like the folk rock poet himself. Or you’ve experienced some Camden characters doing this instead. Bob Dylan—the man, the myth, the absolute enigma—has shaped modern music more than most artists ever could dream of. He’s been a voice of protest, a symbol of reinvention, and at times, a total wildcard.

But did you know Camden has its own slice of Dylan history? From legendary gigs to a cinematic tribute, let’s take a deep dive into Dylan’s ties to our beloved rock ‘n’ roll borough.

Bob Dylan in Camden: The Folk Rock Poet and his connection to London’s Legendary Music Scene

Camden has long been a haven for musical legends, a place where rock ‘n’ roll, punk, and folk have collided to create something magical. As live music promoters in Camden, we feel a deep connection to the artists who have graced our iconic venues. And few artists have shaped modern music quite like Bob Dylan, the folk rock poet himself.

Bob Dylan in the 1960s, around the time he released Masters of War. Photograph: Bettmann Archive

Dylan at the Roundhouse – A Rare Intimate Performance

Dylan performed at Camden’s Roundhouse on 26th April 2009, in what was an unforgettable gig for the lucky few who managed to secure tickets. Just 3,000 standing tickets were available, yet over 100,000 people tried to get them. The demand was insane, but those who made it into the venue witnessed something special – a living legend in an intimate setting, playing a setlist that spanned his career.

The atmosphere was electric, with die-hard fans packed together, eager to catch a glimpse of the man who changed music forever. Roger Daltrey from The Who was spotted on the terrace, while Bill Nighy was in the balcony, reportedly a massive Dylan fan who listens to his music daily. Some fans in the audience had seen Dylan over 140 times, with one man even dedicating an entire room in his house as a shrine to the artist. That’s the level of devotion Dylan inspires.

As for the setlist, it was a mix of old and new, featuring classics like Like a Rolling Stone and Blowin’ in the Wind, alongside tracks from Love and Theft. Dylan, as always, was unpredictable – grinning like the Joker at times, barking out lyrics in ways that made some songs nearly unrecognisable. His voice may have been rough, but the energy was undeniable. The band followed his every move, with the occasional dirty look from Dylan when they didn’t keep up.

Even back then, Dylan’s relationship with the audience was, well, distant. He was there to perform, not to charm. But that’s part of his mystique, and despite his apparent reluctance to engage, the crowd left knowing they had witnessed something historic.

The Blood In My Eyes Video – A Camden Shoot

Beyond the Roundhouse gig, Dylan has another important connection to Camden. His 1993 music video for Blood In My Eyes was filmed around the area, capturing the spirit of the neighbourhood in a way only he could. The video shows Dylan wandering through the streets, donning a top hat and suit, before heading into a classic British café. It’s a moody, atmospheric clip that perfectly fits the song’s bluesy, aching tone.

It’s fascinating to think of Dylan roaming Camden’s streets, considering how the area has always been a hub for counterculture and musical rebellion. The video almost feels like a nod to the folk and punk spirit that has kept Camden alive for generations.

The Legacy of a Folk Rock Poet

To understand why Dylan’s presence in Camden matters, you have to appreciate the sheer weight of his influence. He didn’t just write songs—he revolutionised music. The way we think about lyrics, storytelling, and genre fluidity in music owes so much to him. He took folk music and made it political, poetic, and deeply personal, inspiring everyone from The Beatles to David Bowie. His words have sparked movements, soundtracked protests, and been studied like literature.

And let’s not forget that he won a bloody Nobel Prize in Literature—something no other rock musician has achieved (very Rock’n’Roll to not show up though). His ability to blend folk, blues, rock, and gospel into something entirely unique is why he’s still relevant after more than six decades in the industry. Whether you love or hate his ever-changing voice, you can’t deny his impact.

A Complete Unknown – Have You Seen It Yet?

Speaking of Dylan’s mystique, the new biopic A Complete Unknown is set to delve into his early years, with none other than Timothée Chalamet playing the young Dylan. Have you seen it yet?

I watched it recently, and I have to say—it was a very enjoyable watch and I still have no idea who Bob is. What really stood out was how natural and lifelike the scenarios were. There were no over-the-top Hollywood dramatic scenes, no forced emotional climaxes. Just a dude, his guitar, his Royal Enfield, and a life filled with music. Sure, he was sometimes a bit of a dickhead, but that’s Dylan. The film does a fantastic job of making him feel like a real person, not just a mythical rock star. Plus, seeing him jam and get advice from legends like Joan Baez and Johnny Cash? Incredible.

And of course, chapeau to Timmy, who delivers an insanely good performance, capturing every nuance of Bob Dylan’s voice, mannerisms, and rebellious spirit. After five years of intense preparation—studying Dylan’s music, playing guitar, and mastering his vocal style—he’s proving himself to be an incredible musician in his own right.

Seeing Dylan Live

Seeing Bob Dylan live is something every music lover should do at least once in their life. I finally got the chance this past November, when he played at the Royal Albert Hall. And let me tell you—it was mesmerising.

The sound was impeccable, the band was tight, and Dylan’s presence alone was enough to send shivers down my spine. But, as expected, there was almost zero engagement with the audience. He barely acknowledged us, like he just wanted to finish the set and leave. I had heard this about him before, so I was prepared. And honestly? It didn’t matter.

Most of the songs were completely unrecognisable at first—only the lyrics gave them away. But that was part of the magic. Hearing different versions of some of my favourite Dylan tracks was an incredible experience. He’s never been one to play things safe, and that unpredictability is what makes seeing him live so unique.

Was he warm and chatty? Not at all.
Was it an unforgettable experience? Absolutely.

Another concertgoer told me during the gig that the very first time Dylan performed at the Royal Albert Hall, no less than The Beatles were seated in the front row. Later on, they even joined him backstage—where, apparently, they smoked their first joint together. A historic moment in rock ‘n’ roll and probably a very hazy one for all involved!

Keeping Camden’s Spirit Alive

Moments like these remind us why live music is so important. The connection. The community. The talent. Camden has been home to these legendary performances for decades, and it’s our job to keep that spirit alive. At CMDN Live, we don’t just look back at history—we create it, supporting artists at every stage of their journey. Whether it’s an emerging band at Camden Assembly or a legend like Dylan gracing our venues, Camden remains a powerhouse for live music.

Camden has always been a place for musical legends, from the days of punk at the Electric Ballroom to modern indie and alternative gigs at venues like the Camden Assembly. Keeping this legacy alive is what we do as live music promoters. Dylan’s performances in Camden, along with his video shoot here, remind us that this borough isn’t just a home for music—it’s a part of music history.

And that’s why we keep doing what we do. To make sure that the next generation of artists, whether they’re folk poets like Dylan or hard-hitting rock bands, continue to find a home in Camden. Because once live music disappears, so does the soul of this place.

So, if you haven’t already, make sure you’re out there supporting live gigs. You never know—you might just catch a future legend in the making.

Here’s to the past, present, and future of live music in Camden. Long may it live.

Sources:

• Barnflakes Blog – Late Review: Dylan at the Roundhouse, 2009
• The Guardian – Bob Dylan Live Reviews & Audience Reactions
• The Roundhouse Archives – Bob Dylan’s Historic Performances
• Rolling Stone – Bob Dylan’s Live Evolution Over the Decades
• BBC – The Beatles and Bob Dylan: A Historic Backstage Meeting