Joan Baez returns to Australia for the first time in 25 years to perform a series of dates across the country in August.

The folk singer/songwriter and activist is best known for her interpretations of other artists’ work including songs by peer and former lover Bob Dylan (It’s All Over Now Baby Blue, Love is Just a Four-Letter Word and Farewell Angelina). Some of her best-known original compositions include Diamonds & Rust and Sweet Sir Galahad. Her latest album, Day After Tomorrow, was released in 2008 and was produced by Steve Earle and included interpretations of work by Earle, Tom Waits and T Bone Burnett.

Baez has been performing for almost 55 years. She became a force in the folk scene in the late 50s and graced the cover of Time in 1962 aged 20. Aside from her folk songs, she is known for her activist work as a civil and human rights campaigner.

Baez will be joined by her son Gabriel Harris on percussion and Dirk Powell on banjo, guitar, keyboard and fiddle for her Australian dates.

Joan Baez performs at Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall, on Thursday, August 8. Tickets on 1300 182 183.

artscentremelbourne.com.au