In a recent post shared to X (formerly Twitter) on November 19, a woman who claims to have danced backup for Bob Dylan during his 1991 Grammys performance shared a surprising anecdote about the legendary musician. Cheryl Henry, who had been part of the backup dance ensemble during Dylan’s performance of Masters of War, recounted how she was allegedly told not to make eye contact with the star.
“My joy was taken away after rehearsing as one of the backup dancers for your set on the Grammys in NYC 1991,” Henry wrote, referencing the performance at the Radio City Music Hall. Henry vividly recalled how, as she and her fellow dancers made their way to the backstage exit, they passed by Dylan, who was standing in a black hooded robe, reminiscent of the classic attire worn by boxers before a match.
As she passed him, Henry says Dylan spoke to her with a piece of advice, “Now don’t you go cutting that long red hair of yours before tomorrow night.” However, her memory of the interaction soon took a dark turn. “By the time I reached the exit door at Radio City, I had been told not to return,” she revealed.
Adding to the bizarre experience, Henry described a staff member who was overseeing the dancers, telling them, “Do NOT make eye contact with Bob Dylan.” Despite the instruction, Henry confessed, “I guess I snuck a peek as I passed you!”
Dylan, who has been notably active on social media lately, caught wind of Henry’s post and was quick to address the claim. Responding directly on X, the Blowin’ in the Wind singer said, “Just want you to know I’ve never told anybody not to make eye contact with me. That is just ridiculous. And the next time you see me please look straight into my eyes.”
Henry, seemingly relieved by Dylan’s response, thanked him, replying, “I knew it wasn’t coming from you! I look forward to it!” It seems the misunderstandings of the past have now been cleared up, and Henry is eager to share a more positive interaction with the iconic musician.
In other Bob Dylan news, the 83-year-old icon’s life and legacy are set to be explored in the upcoming biopic A Complete Unknown, with Timothée Chalamet taking on the role of the young Dylan. Interestingly, Chalamet, who has openly expressed his admiration for Dylan, revealed that he has yet to meet the musician in person. “I never met him,” the 28-year-old actor shared during an interview with Zane Lowe on Apple Music. “He’s sort of retreated from the public eye. Never met him. Would love to!” Chalamet added, laughing, “I’ve seen him live,” but for now, a personal meeting remains on the wish list.
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