If you’ve attended a live concert of Bob Dylan you can consider yourself lucky…….very lucky. But if you haven’t, here’s Lou Majaw, a respected musician from the northeast who plays everything of Bob Dylan and the driving force behind the annual Bob Dylan birthday celebrations.

To many, Lou Majaw does not need any introduction amongst Indian rock artists. ‘The Dylan of the North East’ has been associated with music for more than four decades. Majaw started celebrating Bob Dylan’s birthday in the quaint little town of Shillong from 24 May 1972 becoming one of the legendry troubadour’s greatest fans in this part of the world.

Born to a poor family, Majaw taught himself to play guitar in school. After a few years as a struggler in Shillong, Majaw moved to Kolkata where he played at various pubs, bars and different bands.

Sporting long hair, 69 year old Majaw plays a string stringed guitar in a mix of country, blues, rock n roll and reggae. He uses Dan Electro and Epiphone guitars. His influences are Bob Dylan, Jim Reeves, Jim Morrison and many others.

In January 2010, filmmaker Ranjan Palit, made a documentary on Lou called ‘Forever Young’ the title from a Bob Dylan song. Skillfully combining Majaw’s thoughts on music, rock poetry and today’s India with the dynamic images of various performances, the film evokes the spirit of his own generation and of contemporary India and its many facades.

Verus Ferreira met up with Lou Majaw at a music event in Mumbai minutes before he could go on stage. Excerpts from the interview:

How does it feel to be playing to an audience at the age of 69?

Feels blessed to be alive and able to share.

Electric or acoustic guitar, what do you prefer?

Depends on a song and an area of performance.

Who are your favorite music stars?

Favoritism is not my religion.

Do you have your own band you regularly play with or do you change the lineup every time you perform a live show?

As of now Lou Majaw is with Arjun Sen, Sam Shullai and Albert.K.Ryntathiang.Previously I had played with the Meghalaya Love Project, Lou Majaw and the Bad Monkeys, Ace of Spades and others. The more I get involved with different musicians, the more I learn. I never say this is my band, I sing with the band for the band, for the joy of being together. We get to share our skills and that is important.

In 2010 filmmaker RanjanPalit, made a documentary on you called ‘Forever Young’ the title from a Bob Dylan song. How do you relate to it, you being labelled as the Dylan of the North East.

I heard tell it is pretty O.K, that's why it got aired on BBC network. 

You are labelled as the Bob Dylan of North East and of India. Comment.

It’s just a ‘Thank you’ to Bob Dylan” I loved his music the very first time I heard it in 1965. His song ‘Blowin’ in the wind’ just blew me away. Dylan’s songs and the lyrics have so much to say, they are so meaningful, so profound with a lot of in-depth truth. Next year I plan on having the celebration for two days, in a 500 acre forest area with people bringing their own tents, and living a rustic life near streams, hills and nature. I want them to relax, enjoy the local dishes and just have a great time. I want more people to come and bring out poetry hidden within them. The Bob Dylan fest cannot be said to be a concert, rather it is more of a ritual.

On that note, which are your favorite Dylan songs and what do you like about Bob Dylan?

Blowing in the wind. His lyrical depth.

Going back in time, can you tell us a little about how you got into music?

We sort of met half way.

What do you do during your spare time?

Write, read,dream

North East is known for its vibrant music and dance, do you think that it is getting the music needed exposure?

Needs meaningful exposure and fruitful performances

You also compose your own songs, which are the crowd favorites?

Oh,most beautiful.

Name a song that defines Lou Majaw best. Why?

Sea of sorrow. Keeping Lou Majaw alive.

Is Shillong still considered to be the Rock Capital of India?

To some people yes, we got lots of rocks and rock heads around here.

For those who have never seen a Lou Majaw concert, What is a Lou Majaw concert like. Do you change the playlist for each live performance? 

Music entertainment. No play list till date.

What are your thoughts on performing for the Songs & Dances of North East happening for the first time in Mumbai?

Musicians and audience come together for an enriching and enjoyable experience.

Interviewed By Verus Ferreira