February 26, 2025: The Dylan & The Band Special

This episode of High Cotton Radio dives deep into the legendary collaboration between Bob Dylan and The Band, exploring their tumultuous 1966 world tour, Dylan’s shift to electric rock, and the music that emerged from their time together. Hosts Zulu Doc and DJ Unit are joined by returning guest River City Willie, who curates a playlist celebrating Dylan's evolution alongside The Band.

The show opens with Lead Belly’s "Where Did You Sleep Last Night?", setting the tone before launching into the history of Dylan’s controversial move to electric music. The discussion centers around Dylan’s 1966 world tour, where he and The Band—then known as The Hawks—faced relentless booing from folk purists. The infamous Royal Albert Hall Concert is revisited with live recordings of "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue" and "Tell Me Mama," showcasing the tension and energy of the era.

As the episode progresses, the hosts explore Dylan’s post-accident seclusion in Woodstock and the legendary Basement Tapes sessions. They highlight the impact of this period, playing rare gems like "Long Distance Operator" and "Tough Mama." The conversation reflects on how The Band transitioned from backing Dylan to becoming an iconic group in their own right.

With reflections on Dylan’s 1974 comeback and his enduring influence, the episode is a must-listen for fans of classic rock, folk, and Americana. River City Willie’s passion for the era shines through, making this an insightful and engaging journey into one of the most pivotal collaborations in music history.