Bob Dylan

Bob Dylan Live at AFAS Live, Amsterdam

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the legendary Bob Dylan graces the stage at Amsterdam’s premier music venue, AFAS Live, on Wednesday, 5th November 2025. This is not merely a concert; it is an encounter with a living musical icon, a chance to witness firsthand the artistry that has defined generations and continues to inspire millions. Bob Dylan’s live performances are revered for their raw authenticity, his ever-evolving interpretations of his vast catalogue, and the sheer power of his presence. To experience him in the intimate yet grand setting of AFAS Live is to immerse yourself in an evening of profound musical storytelling and enduring cultural significance. This promises to be a night that resonates long after the final note fades, a testament to Dylan’s unparalleled legacy and his undiminished ability to captivate an audience.

About Bob Dylan

Robert Allen Zimmerman, born in Duluth, Minnesota, on 24th May 1941, emerged from the folk music scene of the early 1960s with a voice that was as controversial as it was compelling, and lyrics that possessed a poetic depth rarely seen in popular music. Adopting the moniker Bob Dylan, he quickly became the voice of a generation, his early acoustic anthems like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “The Times They Are a-Changin’” becoming anthems for the burgeoning civil rights and anti-war movements. His transition to electric music in the mid-1960s, marked by the release of seminal albums like Bringing It All Back Home and Highway 61 Revisited, shocked purists but solidified his status as a groundbreaking artist. Hits from this era, such as “Like a Rolling Stone” and “Tangled Up in Blue,” remain cornerstones of rock and roll.

Over his illustrious career, Dylan has constantly reinvented himself, venturing into folk-rock, country, blues, and even gospel music. His lyrical genius, characterised by surreal imagery, social commentary, and intricate narratives, has earned him comparisons to literary giants. He has released over 40 studio albums, received numerous awards including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2016 for “having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition,” Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His tours are legendary, not for lavish stage shows, but for the intimate connection he forges with his audience through the sheer power of his songwriting and his distinctive vocal delivery. Each performance is a unique event, a testament to his enduring spirit and his unshakeable commitment to artistic exploration.

Venue Information

AFAS Live is Amsterdam’s premier indoor music venue, renowned for its cutting-edge sound and lighting technology, designed to deliver an exceptional concert experience. Its distinctive architecture and state-of-the-art facilities ensure that every performance is visually and sonically stunning. The venue boasts a flexible capacity, allowing for an intimate atmosphere regardless of the size of the audience. With excellent acoustics and a prime location, AFAS Live provides a comfortable and accessible setting for fans to enjoy world-class musical performances. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Bob Dylan’s live performances are renowned for their unpredictable and captivating nature. While a definitive setlist is never guaranteed, fans can anticipate a masterfully curated selection of songs that span his extraordinary six-decade career. Expect to hear beloved anthems that have soundtracked moments of personal and societal change, such as “Like a Rolling Stone,” “Tangled Up in Blue,” “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door,” and “All Along the Watchtower.” He is also known to delve into lesser-heard gems from his extensive discography, offering fresh interpretations of his own profound compositions.

Dylan’s performance style is famously understated, focusing on the raw emotion and storytelling inherent in his lyrics. He is not one for elaborate stage theatrics; instead, his presence commands attention through his distinctive voice, his masterful guitar and harmonica playing, and the sheer weight of his musical legacy. The setlist often features a blend of his classic hits and more recent material, showcasing his continued artistic evolution. Each song is delivered with a profound sense of gravitas, his voice, though changed by time, still carries an immense power to convey the nuances of human experience. The duration of a Bob Dylan concert typically lasts around two hours, with no intermission, allowing for a continuous immersion in his musical world. Be prepared for an evening that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, a true celebration of one of music’s most revered figures.

FAQs

Will Bob Dylan play his most famous hits? While Bob Dylan’s setlists are famously fluid and he often surprises audiences with deep cuts, it is highly probable that he will perform some of his most iconic and beloved songs. Tracks such as “Blowin’ in the Wind,” “The Times They Are a-Changin’,” “Like a Rolling Stone,” and “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” are frequently featured in his live sets and are considered staples of his performances. However, the exact arrangement and interpretation of these songs can vary, making each show a unique experience.

What is Bob Dylan’s typical performance style like? Bob Dylan is known for a performance style that is introspective and focused on the delivery of his lyrics and music. He is not one for elaborate stage shows or extensive crowd interaction. Instead, his captivating presence stems from his distinctive vocal phrasing, his guitar and harmonica playing, and the profound emotional resonance of his songwriting. His concerts are often described as intimate, even in large venues, due to the sheer power of his artistic expression.

Can I expect any new material during the concert? Bob Dylan continues to be an active songwriter and performer. While the core of his live sets usually comprises his classic repertoire, he often incorporates songs from his more recent albums. He may also debut new material, though this is less common. Fans can anticipate a well-rounded set that showcases his enduring creativity alongside his legendary back catalogue.

Will there be an intermission during the show? Traditionally, Bob Dylan’s concerts are performed without an intermission. He typically delivers his set in one continuous performance, allowing the audience to be fully immersed in the musical journey without a break. It is advisable to plan accordingly for the full duration of the performance.

How long does a Bob Dylan concert typically last? A Bob Dylan concert typically lasts for approximately two hours, from the start of his performance to the end. This duration allows for a substantial setlist that can encompass a wide range of his extensive musical output.

Is it possible to request specific songs from Bob Dylan? Unfortunately, Bob Dylan does not typically take song requests from the audience during his performances. His setlists are carefully curated by the artist and his team, reflecting his current artistic direction and the flow of the show. Therefore, while you may hope for a particular song, it is best to appreciate the setlist as presented.