In support of her new album Norman F*cking Rockwell!, Lana Del Rey’s Fall 2019 tour is underway. At the fourth stop – The Greek Theatre in Berkeley, California – the “Young and Beautiful” singer surprised the concert attendees by inviting famous female folk singer Joan Baez up to the stage. According to Pitchfork, the two reinterpreted Baez’s 1975 classic “Diamonds & Rust” as a duet. Baez also performed a solo cover of Bob Dylan’s “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright.”
Before their collaboration act, Baez praised Del Rey’s “down-to-earth” personality, which she observed from her dinner with her daughter and Del Rey a night before. The folk veteran said, “so my granddaughter, who doesn’t get impressed very much, had dinner with us last night, with Lana.” She added. “… And she just said, ‘Gosh, she’s so nice! She’s so down to earth! She’s a real person!’”
With her distinctive voice, the 78-year-old folk singer sung “Well I’ll be damned. Here comes your ghost again…” Del Rey’s strong and atmospheric voice later penetrated the song like light passing between smoke clouds. “Diamonds & Rust” written by Baez in 1974 is a song about her relationship with Bob Dylan. The new version of “Diamonds & Rust” was like a waft of air, subtle and rhythmic, with less heartbreak but more freshness.
While adjusting the guitar, Del Rey asked Baez, “what are you going to sing for us?” Baez responded leisurely, “I’ll sing a Dylan song.” A burst of warm applause from the crowd followed before the music of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright” dropped. Baez’s cover showcased her timeless skills in fingerpicking guitar and was filled with her sweeping soprano as well as melancholy emotion.
Later that night, Del Rel brought out Leonard Cohen’s son Adam for a cover of “Chelsea Hotel No.2.” This is the second time the song was covered by them. Del Rey previously invited Adam to reinterpreted “Chelsea Hotel No.2” at Jones Beach Theater.
Del Rey is currently touring on the West Coast. You can check out the tour details HERE. Watch the “Diamonds & Rust,” and “Chelsea Hotel No.2” performances below.
Photo Credit: Sharon Alagna
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