That Time Dolly Parton Was Booked to Open for Neil Young on His ‘Rust Never Sleeps’ Tour
The same fall that Van Halen toured with Black Sabbath and Thin Lizzy went out with AC/DC, an even crazier double bill was scheduled for arenas and amphitheaters across America
Dolly Parton opening for Neil Young on his 'Rust Never Sleeps' tour is a fascinating piece of music history that highlights the eclectic nature of 1970s rock. At first glance, it may seem like an odd pairing - Parton's country-pop sensibilities contrasting sharply with Young's grungy, guitar-driven rock. However, this booking speaks to the era's experimental approach to concert tours and the blurring of genre lines.
The 'Rust Never Sleeps' tour, which took place in 1979, was a major undertaking for Neil Young, featuring a mix of his solo material and work with Crazy Horse and the Damned. The addition of Dolly Parton as an opening act would have brought a unique energy to the shows, potentially introducing Young to a new audience and vice versa. This move also underscores Parton's growing crossover appeal during the late 1970s, as she began to transition from country to a more mainstream sound.
What's interesting to watch next is how this unusual pairing might have influenced the trajectory of both artists' careers. For Neil Young, the 'Rust Never Sleeps' tour marked a significant moment in his live performances, showcasing his versatility as a musician. As for Dolly Parton, this exposure could have contributed to her increasing popularity beyond country music circles. The music industry has always been about unexpected collaborations and genre-bending performances - this instance is a prime example of that creative spirit.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. SerbNews adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.