Bob Neuwirth shaped American folk music from the shadows, operating as what T Bone Burnett called "a mad Zen monk" of the scene. Perhaps best known for his pivotal role in Bob Dylan's 1975 Rolling Thunder Revue tour, Neuwirth's influence runs far deeper than his high-profile collaborations.
His early impact was cemented during his time as Dylan's tour manager in 1965-66, a period brilliantly documented in D. A. Pennebaker’s “Don’t Look Back” and Barry Feinstein's photographs that capture Neuwirth's essential role in Dylan's inner circle. From these early days to his role orchestrating the Rolling Thunder Revue, Neuwirth had an uncanny ability to connect artists and catalyze creativity.
The auction features extraordinary items from Neuwirth's personal collection during the Rolling Thunder Revue, including his Martin D-41 guitar—one of two Martins purchased by Dylan right before the two men embarked on Rolling Thunder. Also featured is a rare collection of Rolling Thunder tour ephemera including Neuwirth's backstage pass and original tickets, and 25 backstage pass buttons in a framed display. Perhaps most striking is Neuwirth's stage-worn 'Nudie' suit from the 'Night of the Hurricane II' benefit concert at the Houston Astrodome. Purchased for him (and the whole band) by Dylan.
He assembled the band for the Rolling Thunder tour, helping to launch the careers of T Bone Burnett, J.S. Soles, and David Mansfield. His impact extended beyond folk circles – he co-wrote "Mercedes Benz" with Janis Joplin and poet Michael McClure, and introduced Joplin to Kris Kristofferson's "Me and Bobby McGee."
As an artist himself, Neuwirth was prolific but purposefully under the radar. His 1988 album "Back to the Front" made Elvis Costello's list of "500 albums essential to a happy life." Yet he preferred operating on the periphery, telling The Paris Review, "Being famous is a full-time job. You can get more done being anonymous."
Beyond music, Neuwirth was an accomplished painter and filmmaker. He studied at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, shot footage at both Woodstock and Monterey Pop, and created an unreleased short film for The Doors. After finding sobriety in 1977, he made sobriety “cool” for the many people he carried the message to.
The items being auctioned from Neuwirth's personal archives offer a rare glimpse into these pivotal moments in American music history. The proceeds will support "Untitled: Bob Neuwirth Project," a documentary exploring Neuwirth's role as what Greil Marcus called "a fulcrum turning the ideas and actions of those around him."
Neuwirth's legacy isn't just about the music he made, but the space he created for others to make theirs. As musician David Mansfield noted, "He became a first responder, albeit the hippest one you'd ever seen. Which is, maybe, part of how he literally saved so many lives."
The 50 year anniversary of 1974's "Bob Neuwirth" release completely remixed by John Hanlon and remastered by Chris Bellman at Grundman. Limited Edition LP & Print! 50th Anniversary Reissue of Bob Neuwirth’s Debut Album Set For CD and Vinyl Release on September 27, 2024
For a Limited Time, a print of Neuwirth’s artwork will be included with 100 units of Bob's Debut Album. This "Fine Art Limited Edition" was exclusively printed for this collection. Once it is "Sold Out" it will not reprinted. It is only available here on from Sunset Blvd Records & Bandcamp.
