Last Update: 06/03/2026 at 6:25 AM EST

Mid-day Briefing: Bob Dylan

Sunday, May 17, 2026 · 6:45 PM EDT

Key developments

CULT FOLLOWING

Dylan and Costello perform 'Tears of Rage'

Bob Dylan and Elvis Costello performed together during a road stretch that included dates in the United Kingdom and later the United States, eventually landing on 'Tears of Rage' in St. Louis, Missouri. Costello described the song as emerging from a soundcheck invitation and a quick two-person setup, with shifting harmony moments on stage. Dylan also floated a studio collaboration, including Johnnie and Jack material, but it did not come together.

Why it matters

It documents a rare Dylan-Costello pairing and shows the collaboration briefly extended beyond the stage.

Sources & driving stories

CULT FOLLOWING · Ewan Gleadow

Cult Following coverage
THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER

Lucinda Williams recounts Dylan influence and praise

In a Philadelphia interview tied to her performance support of 'World's Gone Wrong,' Lucinda Williams described Bob Dylan as a central influence. She said 'Highway 61 Revisited' has long been her favorite Dylan album, recalled meeting him at Folk City in Greenwich Village in the 1970s, and said Dylan later praised her version of Skip James's 'Hard Time Killin' Floor Blues'.

Why it matters

It adds a fresh firsthand anecdote about Dylan's influence on a major peer and his direct recognition of her work.

Sources & driving stories

THE PHILADELPHIA INQUIRER · Dan DeLuca

The Philadelphia Inquirer coverage

Worth noting

WORTH NOTING

Rare 'I Shall Be Released' upload

The Dylan rarity from the Costello performance circulated on YouTube and drew listener praise, adding a separate signal that the duet resonated beyond the room.

Still unclear

OPEN QUESTION

Will Dylan and Costello record together?

The reported studio idea, including Johnnie and Jack material, remains unresolved and could indicate whether the partnership extends beyond live appearances.

OPEN QUESTION

Does Dylan’s praise of Williams lead anywhere?

Her account suggests an ongoing personal connection that could surface again in future performances, interviews, or collaborations.