When he strolled on the beard and hat lent him a slight resemblance to a Rickenbacker-playing Guy Fawkes.
Aged 71 but looking 20 years younger, Roger McGuinn was not only in great shape physically, but his fragile vocal was as emotive as it was 50 years ago when The Byrds were one of the 1960s’ most influential bands.
The first set started with two Dylan tracks, with My Back Pages setting the scene nicely as McGuinn took us through the years.
"In '64 I met The Beatles and The Stones, that was fun," the references were often that succinct.
McGuinn had developed a well-honed script with no fat and even less deviation.
The stories were fascinating and the characters all rock legends.
He played more than 25 songs beautifully, mainly on his seven-string Martin and mostly seated.
McGuinn's folk roots, meant Woody Guthrie followed Leadbelly, which followed a rousing sea shanty. When you are in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame you can end your set with Eight Miles High and encore with Turn! Turn! Turn!
The sell out crowd sang and clapped along, and stood to acknowledge a wonderfully nostalgic evening.
Chestnut Mare lit up the night brighter than any firework.
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