NME reports that the Chinese Ministry of Cultureonly approved the Dylan concerts in Beijing and elsewhere after approving the setlist.
This follows in the wake of Bjork irritating the goverment by performing “Declare Independence In Shanghai” in 2008, proving herself braver then most people.
NME writes: “Songs such as ‘The Times They Are A-Changin” and ‘Blowin’ In The Wind’, which have strong ties with the American civil rights and anti-war movements of the 1960s, were thought to have been met with resistance from China’s censors.”
I don’t know what Dylan’s options are here. We are discussing a legendary man who, simply by his presence, implies a connection to civil rights and freedom of expression.
I mean, should he simply not play there?
Dylan acquiescing to restrictions and playing China is not the same as supporting the government but it is the same as supporting the people.