On Sunday, May 24, Caffe Lena will celebrate the 85th birthday of Bob Dylan with a special evening of live music honoring one of the most influential songwriters ever.
Hosted by Michael Eck, the respected roots musician and longtime chronicler of the region’s music scene, the concert brings together a diverse lineup of Capital Region artists, each offering their own take on Dylan’s work. Eck himself has been recognized among the area’s leading songwriters, earning multiple wins from the Capital Region Thomas Edison Music Awards (The Eddies).
Caffè Lena holds a unique place in Dylan’s history. In 1961, a young Bob Dylan performed three nights at the venue for his first weekend beyond the Greenwich Village folk scene, making this celebration both a tribute and a continuation of that connection.
A Caffè Lena Board Member, Eck, who is staging this show as a benefit for the venue, says of his cohort, “Bob Dylan is the father of us all.” Along with the late Dale Metzger, Eck produced and hosted a long string of Bob Dylan Birthday Bashes at Union College early in the 21st century.
The evening features artists who will explore Dylan’s expansive catalog, from early folk songs to later-era compositions, offering fresh interpretations shaped by their own musical perspectives.
Julia Alsarraf, a rising voice in the indie and alternative scene, known for her emotionally direct songwriting and distinctive vocal style.
The BlueBillies, a Capital Region bluegrass group rooted in traditional sounds, bringing tight harmonies and driving acoustic energy.
Buggy Jive, a genre-blending musician with strong songwriting and lyrics heavily influenced by literature, referencing authors like T.S. Eliot, Ralph Ellison and Toni Morrison to address complex modern social issues, also recognized among the region’s standout artists and Eddies nominees.
Girl Blue (Arielle O’Keefe), an award-winning singer-songwriter whose deeply personal songs and powerful voice have earned national attention and a devoted following.
Chuck Lamb, acclaimed jazz pianist and longtime host of Caffè Lena’s Jazz Series, known for his expressive playing and wide-ranging musical collaborations.
Kate McDonnell, a seasoned songwriter and performer whose work blends folk, jazz, and pop influences with sharp lyrical insight.
Caffe Lena Celebrates Bob Dylan’s 85th Birthday with 518 All-Star Tribute Concert takes place on Sunday, MAy 24 at 7pm at 47 Phila Street, Saratoga Springs. More info & tickets available here
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