Bob Dylan turned 85 a couple of days ago. Recently I came across this 1995 performance of Restless Farewell, released by Dylan in 1964, and rarely performed by him since then. I was surprised to see Dylan singing it at a Hollywood celebration of Frank Sinatra's 80th birthday and end by saying "Happy birthday, Mr. Frank". His admiration for Sinatra is real, in more recent years, Dylan recorded an album of Sinatra songs.
According to Wikipedia and other sources, Dylan was the only performer that night to not sing a Sinatra song, and it was The Chairman of the Board who requested Bob sing Restless Farewell. I don't know if the story is true but, in accordance with the Official Policy of this Blog, we're going to go with it.
Restless Farewell is a Dylan tune I'd forgotten about until a few years ago and has since become a favorite. Looking at the lyrics, and particularly the final verse (see below), I can see why Sinatra might indeed have requested it.
Oh, a false clock tries to tick out my timeTo disgrace, distract, and bother meAnd the dirt of gossip blows into my faceAnd the dust of rumors covers meBut if the arrow is straightAnd the point is slickIt can pierce through dust no matter how thickSo I'll make my standAnd remain as I amAnd bid farewell and not give a damn
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