Dave Mason "All Along The Watchtower"

Dave Mason performing "All Along The Watchtower" at Music City Roots live from the Loveless Cafe on 9.25.2013

[@jeffdwyer1655]

People often forget that Mason played 12-string on Hendrix's original version of this. He has earned the right to make this one his own.

[@rickfrost5594]

It wasnt Hendrix who did it first. Dylan wrote it and his was the best IMO.

[@jeffdwyer1655]

@@rickfrost5594 By Hendrix's 'original version,' I meant his first cut at the Dylan song. Yes, of course I know Dylan wrote it. And it promptly disappeared, until Hendrix put it on the map. Dylan's version is OK, and of course the lyrics are great, as usual. Hendrix's version is musically transcendent, in my opinion.

[@jeffdoyle4703]

I wonder if those who complain even know who Dave is. Not being critical, just wondering.

[@dead2802]

Only 3 told me they bought the album yrs ago in around 1975. Way b4 I even knew the song existed. I heard it in 85 when I was 16. This version in my top 5 fav all time songs! ❤ 🎵 ❤

[@randy-yu5uz]

Strong Like! 👍

[@thomasobrien1213]

Dave Mason is very underrated. He's put out great music for decades.

[@dirigoelectric]

Let’s face it, there aren’t any musicians in popular music today that can even come close to this.

[@neurofire]

Hendricks so defined Watchtower - only a master or a fool would tackle it. Fortunately we're in the hands of a master. Bravo Dave!

[@clbrown3894]

Dave is not only a master, but also played on Jimi's version.

[@gavanhillebold3131]

neurofire HENDRIX

[@bretkindell6887]

So well said..what a music legend

[@donaldharris8826]

I have the LP and the CD versions of the "Dave Mason Certified Live" In Concert 1976. I play the CD often with the musicianship of Dave Mason and Jim Krueger who was a fine complement to the bands musical mix. These two guys have never really received the True Recognition that they so we'll deserved. The LP & CD along with other tunes of Mason and Krueger never get old to me. I knew a dude named John Birmingham who looked and played lots like Jim Krueger. Peace & Play 🎸 On . . . 😎🤘🎸👍🙏 DDHarris 7-22-2020.

[@kurtsteinmann1]

He played the intro guitar on the original, so it's his too. I saw the very guitar used when he played in Clearwater.

[@ajhill6655]

The drummer is insane! Dude nails the beat and sound of this song... thank you drummer....

[@codysmom6071]

The drummer is Alvino Bennett

[@chinookvalley]

Come on you children, you CAN make some music that will live forever. Take heed and listen to this wonderful stuff. Growing up in the 60s and 70s will be hard to beat, but the soul IS within you. Take the reigns and make a difference. You, too, can be wonderful!

[@richardbarrick1492]

That's sooo very encouraging ❤❤😅 God Bless you and great music 🎶 is truly universal--

[@edwardhassick5768]

Back in the Traffic days I didn't know how great he is

[@MissDistarr]

I love this version of this song. He did more than justice with it. He added his own personal touch to it but kept the original integrity of the song. I think people forget or overlook what a great guitarist he is and his long history in the music business. I am forever grateful that I grew up with the music of this era. What a great time it was.

[@wbravo66]

I will die happy tonight

[@richardnotman787]

Dave nails it.

[@larryg7126]

Dave Mason has always been a favorite of mine. His 1st album was one of the greatest albums ever released, I don't feel that the rest were as strong though all had some great songs & I bought them. As far as being a great guitarist, he's one of the best. I agree this period of music was fantastic and record companies hadn't yet enforced descriptive labels, good music was just good music irregardless of its roots.

[@michaell.mcspadden7646]

Yes, Dave did the best version of this classic. The version on "Certified Live" is the first one I ever heard and has always been my favorite.

[@Earthdancer46234]

@@michaell.mcspadden7646 I Jeff Healey's 10 minute version of this song. I do like this creative version.

[@philwright2480]

Dave is so underated, this is such a great version

[@williamba3755]

I've been blessed to enjoy over 50 Shows of Dave's. He is a true treasure. His writing, singing and guitar playing along with that gift of still enjoying his fans are still strong and a pleasure to rock to. Your fans from CHICAGO!

[@kenster007]

Amazed for years that his name is not mentioned more with the rest of the guitar gods. Those of us that have been around a bit know he is a monster and still at it.

[@suminshizzles6951]

Even his wiki page notes that he was not as "lucky" as some of his contemporaries. I knew his hit song from 77 but it was a justinguitar course, since i started playing again after 30 years off, that led me to appreciate dave. Quite amazing. I cant play super fast so i really appreciate those that like leslie west, for example, that dont need to play 200bpm.

[@jeffreylujan7424]

You're so right Dave Mason is a master a master at his craft nobody plays this better it's not even close!!🎸 I have all his pieces of work this guy belongs in the Rock and roll Hall of Fame hands down!!

[@jeffreylujan7424]

Send chills down your spine

[@jeffreylujan7424]

The great ones can climb up and down that guitar neck that separates the great from the good!🎸🎸🎸

[@jmont8943]

@@jeffreylujan7424 Dave is actually in the Hall as a member of Traffic, but if you mean as a solo artist, I don't disagree.

[@barrymills8597]

What a stunning version, can’t believe how good this is. Dave Mason we salute you sir.

[@JUDYACST]

Oh, that voice! God, it brings me so far back to the great music back then

[@Bobster986]

Saw Dave twice in my youth, 1980’s, he really deserves more recognition.

[@MrPhantom4]

remember..It Was Dave on the 12 string when Jimi recorded this on Electric Ladyland…..

[@marsazorean62]

Yes indeed.

[@justsayin991]

That's really interesting I had no idea Dave Mason played 12 string on Jimi's version.Thanks for the 411.

[@georgemoore8832]

he opened for Doobie brothers and Journey and just left me wide eyed and speechless. he has played with everybody who is anybody. his body of work is staggering.

[@LiebsterFeind]

His guitar tone is just stunning; thick, bluesy, fluid and beautiful. I'm completely jealous. And a 3-pickup Tele no less!

[@garyburcham1699]

One of my favorites. Awesome

[@someofem]

Looks like he's hitting that Lace Sensor on the neck through most of it. Probably gold, they are sweet, in all positions.

[@danieldeneau7802]

Awesome in the good ol Dave Mason Style 😎

[@GPM116]

I know it I'm blown away with his sound. it's perfect.

[@extantia]

Fat with a razor's edge!

[@Kram62]

Dave is in control, tellin' it like it is. Great voice. What a beautiful sound on that Tele.

[@PlymouthVT]

Love Dave. Saw him in 1972 NYC Performing Arts Center he warmed up Santana. Blew Santana away. Dave Devotee ever since.He's an amazing guitar player and song writer. Long Live DAVE!!

[@nealrothchild3470]

Always liked this version. incredible guitar player and singer.

[@Voodoo66Chile]

Wow! Just saw Dave jamming with Jimi at the end of Jimi's Royal Alber Hall performance and wanted to check out some of his more recent work. He played the legendary 12 string rhythm in Jimi's version and now plays an amazing version that both tributes Jimi while also sounding original, I love it! His voice is still amazing as well! Dave is painfully underrated but is truly one of the legends.

[@jerrysilverman8113]

Rock and Roll hall of famer who never got enough credit or airplay.Great guitarist and singer.

[@RussellMossMoss-il8ug]

1 of the all time greats .... Going to C him in 4 days Charlotte NC ....

[@kentbeery4697]

The Camera Man in this Footage knew what he was doing, Excellent job on filming this Rock Legend

[@jimhockley9730]

written by a master. re lived by many

[@deans4528]

Like so many others here, I have always preferred Dave Mason' version of this song. Dave Mason is great!

[@extantia]

I first heard the studio version while in high school in the 70’s, then the one from “Certified Live” and finally the one from “Live at Sunrise.” All phenomenal-

[@jakeh7700]

And the best Dave Mason version ever captured on video was in 1981 at Perkins Palace in San Francisco with Jimmy Krueger. It was an acoustic show. It's on You tube. Jimmy Krueger just flat blew the place apart. If you've never seen it...trust me, you're missing out. I happen to be 64 years old and was lucky enough to be there live. I have never forgotten that version. R.I.P. Jimmy.

[@robertmasi9439]

aka "Mad Dad" There are a number of videos on KZbin of artists performing this tune but this version by Dave Mason outshines them all!

[@Muffin192213]

this old man rocker (no disrespect intended) just killed it, rock on DM & crew you guys are awesome.

[@joelspringman523]

One of the best concerts ever: Dave Mason, about 1974/1975.

[@19oz57]

I've always preferred Daves version

[@davidhodierne2612]

Walked in to a small club on the beach the Windjammer in Charleston and there was Dave Mason walking around the dance floor playing this. Saw show later stood 6 feet from him. One of the best shows ever.

[@d.taygray1250]

I missed that by ONE night !! 😠😠

[@dead2802]

Another symbol and part of an almost bygone era. A better world in a better time! Life was never easy, but the fact is We Lived! And our lives were Ours! Cheers! The song now seems almost prophetic.

[@fghtd65t]

Dave played the 12-string on the Hendrix original. I saw Dave a couple of years ago live and he commented that it took him multiple takes to get the 12 string part just right.

[@larryn2682]

With Jimi yelling at him.

[@fewhite5126]

Man, he still sounds great.

[@ervinlay6917]

I wish they made more Telecasters like that.

[@tommckinnon1005]

Bless you, Dave, there are still lots of us who remember you and cherish your music.

[@billcessna7527]

It is so funny... you young kids don't realize, Dave Mason sat down w/ Jimi and co-produced it. Yes, this is a Bob Dylan song.

[@neighborscomplaint6859]

Dave Mason played 12 string acoustic on the Hendrix recording.

[@Teachering]

Dave Mason's guitar playing is so fluid. His voice is pleasant and commanding. By that I mean, he commands your attention as a listener. He's very sure of himself as a player and singer.

[@peterszewzek4167]

I got to see Dave & his band in a restaurant venue The Mill,Spring Lake,NJ. This was back in 2005. The place held less than 100 for dinner. Seated at the stage,Dave & I talked between songs.All Along the Watchtower does even sound better person.He slapped a pick in my hand at the end. I was,knowing the venue owners able to buy Dave a Merlot and we got to talk a bit.Seen him twice since then in Morristown. What a talent! What a great guy! Lynda,my wife too young to know Traffic is now a Dave Mason fan.

[@craigjgomez]

Peter Szewzek You don't have to know Traffic to listen to Traffic. Right here on youtube. Duh!

[@hectorgamezibarra7128]

Listening live Dave Mason is a great, wonderful time. Worth every second. If you got a chance, take it. I did. WOW!

[@jeffreyrothenberg346]

alone together......the best album

[@lotterohde6886]

What a joy and pleasure to listen to this again with Dave Mason - it was my favorite once

[@cdreamsleeves]

Oh, my.... Dave delivering the lead guitar again! So sweet, and his voice has changed little from the early days.

[@glad2bhome864]

I enjoyed all the performers, especially Dave and the drummer on this piece.

[@craigjgomez]

Many years ago, I was a Production Manager for a small booking and production company. When I heard we were doing a show with Dave Mason, I literally became overcome with emotion. That was 20 years ago. His performance is flawless and very moving. I remember buying his first album in the 60's that had a fold out picture of him wearing a top hat. Vinyl was so much better than the shit we hear today. You heard every instrument like it was there in front of you. Needless to say, it was an honor and a privilege to work with Dave Mason. He was very friendly and easy going. I don't think I have ever heard such clean and crisp guitar playing as with Dave. You folks planning to see him live are in for a real special show.

[@MissDistarr60]

I love your comment about this incredibly talented man. I feel the same way about him as you. I saw him during the mid-70's. He was such a young man then. There aren't many artist's you can say this about, but I must say....He NEVER lost his pipes. This man's performance of this song sounds the same as it did those many decades ago. I envy you having met him, no less having the chance to work with him. I never thought he would be any different than he has always appeared to me.....a down to earth, kind and gentle soul. I count my blessings that I was around to witness the quality of music that came from our generation. There is good music out there now, but our music had something that will never be repeated on such a scale....the human imprint they left on their music. It's something one cannot see. It's something you feel and I'm here to say, I indeed felt it!!! Still do. Much respect and admiration for this man:)

[@craigjgomez]

+MissDistarr60. He is also a very funny guy who has a way of making anyone feel comfortable around him. Steve Winwood is another in the same mold. Real and genuine. Thank you for your comment.

[@MissDistarr60]

Craig Gomez You're most welcome. You know, I wouldn't expect anything less from those two gentleman:) It was a true pleasure reading about your experiences with those artist's I hold in such high regard. Much respect for them and much appreciation for you for sharing such a special part of your life with us. Thanks again::::))))) It was a treat for me!

[@duffgordon9005]

Try Johny rivers- 1000 songs, each one significant ---70 years 6 decades

[@ashburn47]

Craig Gomez ggggg

[@urankjj]

Saw Dave live at Edinboro State University in Pennsylvania back in the late 70's. He still sounds incredible. Long Live Rock !!!!!

[@dawnadawn]

Talented Musicians like DAVE MASON played their music and sang their songs during a time when america was going through a huge change in how music contributes to society, and our personal identity. Helping to create the hippy culture that influenced me and so many others. I too am forever grateful that I grew up with the music of this era. What a great time it was.

[@jacquelinelivingston5783]

I often say the same. We were so much happier and freer. Our music amplified the moment and the creativity that emanated . Of course, the US had 5% of the world population and 50% of the world production and business...and the optimism that came from winning WWII. was what we were raised in.

[@tremayne3]

His voice remains perfect !!!!!

[@theaxis2000]

I love Dylan, and I worship Hendrix, but Dave does this song better than anyone!

[@earlclark5830]

The same thing I said years ago when I first bought the album and stand by that thought even today. He still has a great sound....

[@WilRockQ]

Worship?

[@yvonnemendez3075]

He is a master so underated

[@rosemarygranat3981]

Yes he does

[@danr5105]

I would put this song up against anybody's else's favorite. This is the definition of rock and roll.

[@chriswalford9228]

Two things for me 1 vocals are sort of spoken like he's reading a poem and 2. don't think I've seen or heard it played on a telecaster so he's put a unique stamp on that . Very refreshing.

[@GordonTuzinsky]

Duh, that's the way Bob Dylan wrote it!!!! Duh!!! Have you ever heard the original version????? Duh!!!

[@maddadram1]

Joe H. In complete agreement You can listen to every version of this song available on you tube and this one outshines them all!

[@urankjj]

Wow, Saw him back in the late 70's at Edinboro University in Pennsylvania. He brought the house down that night with this song, and it seems that he hasn't missed a beat or a lick since then. AAAmazing!! . May we all age that well.. Thank You Dave...

[@danhurney3929]

The best version ever. He is just one of the best guitar players and singers that ever came out of anywhere. I just saw him live in Patchogue NY on Saturday January 10th. GREAT!

[@kassidybeth71]

Just saw him perform this live today... absolutely incredible!

[@onlooker510]

Thank you for coming out of your funk. Saw you in 1987 in Kansas City Mo. in a small club beneath your talent and you have come back. The love of my life was with me and she was in awe of your talent. Well she is gone but you are still here and I thank you for your genius/talent. Thank you for 40+ years of great music. Thank You.

[@stevehall5299]

Brilliant Dave ,you've done a fine job here 👏 ❤❤❤❤

[@04softail70]

I knew Dave Mason was a great musician and songwriter... But damn! Had no idea he was such a great guitarist too. I think I like his version this version best. I'd love to catch one of his shows

[@holboroman]

Are you aware that he played on the Hendrix studio version. If you listen to the 12 string on the Hendrix version, yep it's Davey!

[@joysyoutube7371]

seen him live since the late 70's,,,,been great forever!

[@keithrussell4548]

Man I love you Dave. You got me through 75 and 76. With one "Live" album.

[@donquixote1955]

Awesome Dave Mason.....The Live Album iiis one of my all time favorites with Jim Kreuger....

[@ann5765]

Love Dave Mason❤

[@joehagenbach9935]

Mason does this song better than anyone.........Period !!

[@bobcardenaz9034]

+Joe Hagenbach No, Jimi's studio cover is my favorite and I'm a Dave Mason fan. Always loved Dave's live covers of AATW. aka Classic Bob

[@whooziss]

That's what is great about multiple versions of songs by different artists. You are totally correct in your world, and I am in mine. Give me Dave Mason any day, altho Hendrix's IS good.

[@michaeldavis3595]

the best thing about it is,Bob's, Jimi's and Dave's each do it their own way and it is all so very GOOD

[@carman200l]

I AGREE he 'HAS', but the tempo here, needs to be sped up! (Seek out Japanese StarBox version)

[@walkermydawg]

Better than anyone. Goddamn lady. How old are you?

[@mattavila9683]

Excellence is his perfection thanks Dave .

[@atsstockburn]

Christ, well done Dave. I think you are approaching 70. Love live Dave Mason!

[@andypandy5224]

He opened last night for the Doogie Brothers and Journey last night at the lakewood amphitheater in Atlanta. he played this song and it sounds so much better in person. he was amazing. phenomenal musician and vocalist.

[@dkoppyus63]

I'm waiting for them all to come here to the Seattle area next month, can't wait to see them

[@craigjgomez]

Andrew Ballew Hey, doogie is what you flush. Doobie is what you smoke and the band.

[@duffgordon9005]

oH IF WE COULD SKIP THE DOOBIES AND jOURNEY I WOULD LOVE 3 HOURS OF DM . tHE dOOBIES HAVE NOT HELD UP WELL FOR ME AND jOURNEY ALSO.

[@craigjgomez]

Duff Gordon Hey, let me know how you're doing when you are lucky enough to celebrate 60 years of living. Right. I remember your ex telling me that she left because, "he hadn't been able to keep up with me in bed so I said goodbye". Just saying...

[@duffgordon9005]

Your putting up a toddler's picture tells us everything we need to know. Brake the Gomez lineage. Little one liners are put aside as "7the grade level" Keep him back again.

[@MrBACKFENCE]

Great version! An underrated guitarist, very good song writer and vocalist...thanks Dave!

[@skiboy1046]

So great to see Dave Mason!

[@paddyfolan]

Has to be my favourite version of this song, everything about it is great, big fan of Dave's work and this is heavenly

[@terryhurlburt9113]

I saw him do this live when he was Young! MAN, He can still rip it!!!

[@duffgordon9005]

+Terry Hurlburt WHAT!!!! He is better in every category. He's learned KISS. VOICE, STRONG LIKE BULL. hE MAKES THAT GUITAR BITE INTO RHINO LIKE LION.

[@terryhurlburt9113]

He is still very Good. That is what I said. He was awesome when he was young.

[@imcacklinghere8693]

I saw Dave Mason in 1983 or so..in St Thomas USVI. We both had a LOT of hair then. Now, my dome looks like his. Oh, well. We still have this song!

[@bullseye45419]

This is so awesome. Mason played on Hendrix's Electric Ladyland.

[@danh3013]

Mason is a Rock God!

[@yvonnemendez3075]

Yes he is so glad I grew up with this music

[@yvonnemendez3075]

Oh yeah sing it Dave

[@michaelowen8055]

I just hope his 2016 tour finds it's way north to Vancouver, BC! His voice hasn't changed and that guitar... I get goosebumps every time I watch this vid and "We Just Disagree"

[@dennycash8617]

going down to the big city of Laughlin, NV to see Dave this Saturday. Dave still brings it every night. Always great to see a legend, especially in a tight venue! Cheers

[@tacey505]

so many know so little about this guy . do your homework and understand how REALLY good this guy is

[@myoldmate]

What's not to love? Great Dylan song, not played like Hendrix ( unlike every other version ) and on a Telecaster. I had an album of his way back and shamefully can't remember it's title but he covered Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow and it was brilliant. Great man.

[@BK-uf6qr]

Great version, guitar tone and phrasing is phenomenal.

[@jooooty1]

Good version! Ol' Davey is from a town by me in Worcester, UK

[@edwinvancooten7630]

one of the most underrated guitarists in all of rock over the last 50 years

[@DanEliades]

One of the BEST !

[@stephenmarcus2825]

A very much underrated talent in the annals of rock history. Thank you Dave Mason.

[@fredg1959]

A legend,.... Still has it.

[@jimbouldin9164]

Holy cow, just like the 70s--still has the same great voice. Great stuff.

[@jackitruelove7725]

Saw him do this last year, so magical. Mmmmm.

[@AquaFurs]

Nice arrangement and performance.

[@rickroach6900]

We saw dave last night at the fox in detroit, he blew us away

[@wbravo66]

Simply amazing, thanks Diane for the post

[@bruceules1318]

That was fn awesome ! And the song written by the only Pulitzer Prize winner to come out of Rock and Roll Bob Zimmerman "Dylan"

[@fisterklister]

Dave was my childhood hero

[@cleatusbarncoat8642]

Best version by far, imho. Seeing DM tomorrow night 6/19/23 with The Outlaws @ Rialto Theater, Joliet, Illinois. Rock on!

[@jaredfeinberg3114]

I saw him do this live back in 1977-78 at SUNY Stony Brook. He was phenomenal and brought the house down. He actually opened for Kenny Loggins at that concert.

[@grammargirl3062]

"Dave Mason Certified Live"...if you don't have the album, get it. BRILLIANT!!! DM on guitar and Gerald Johnson on base...they don't make musicians like that anymore.

[@grammargirl3062]

...that is Gerald Johnson on bass...sorry for misspelling.

[@dealsbetweenfriends]

His Best....had it on Vinyl in 80's! WOW>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

[@paullevine1813]

Around 50 years of great playing Dave still hasn't lost a thing .. A bit of a shame Jason Roller doesn't get lead in this ,the boy is an amazing player. a great band all around. Still love Dave's acoustic work on this & when he played it on Jimi's cover off Electric Ladyland.

[@sykesvilleroy9845]

Always thought this is one of the best versions of this song done by so many. Saw Dave recently and he still has the voice and guitar chops.

[@gwynnielsen5081]

This tune must be one the the most covered ever! But I love to hear everyone's rendition because they are all different and all good.

[@stanvanderlugt8271]

Great. Greatings from The Netherlands, Utrecht. His recent live album is great. Buy it !!!!!!!

[@josephsmith3424]

I LIKE ALL THE VERSIONS OF THIS BOB DYLAN SONG. I THINK THE ORIGINAL "JOHN WESLEY HARDING" LP WAS 2 MINUTES AND 16 SECONDS LONG. DEFINITELY IN MY TOP 10. I REMEMBER SEEING DAVE MASON AT JUANITA COLLEGE IN HUNTINGDON, PA. THAT'S WHERE MS JANE(BEVERLY HILLBILLIES) WAS A PROFESSOR. WHEN MASON BROKE UP WITH TRAFFIC HE PUT OUT A ALBUM CALLED "ALONE TOGETHER" THE FIRST (?) COPIES WERE COLORED. THE LP ITSELF WAS COLORED. PRETTY COOL AND A EXCELLENT ALBUM

[@duffgordon9005]

+Joseph Smith it's in my garage bought 45 years ago.

[@ls1959]

With all the great versions of this classic song, my favorite has always been Dave Mason's version. For those who haven't heard the original studio recording, I highly recommend it. Really powerful.

[@justsayin991]

Does anyone remember Dave Mason's song called, "Baby Please"?????🎸🎸🎵🎵 yummy to say the least.💗

[@justsayin991]

I sure do remember. Baby please. Yummy indeed ❤

[@volfan011]

Great job on a great song Dave.