Bob Dylan Demands Armed Guards At His Shows, As Security Upgrades Are Considered For Major Tours Here In Aus

Bob Dylan isn’t taking any chances following the devastating terror attacks in Paris last week.

The music legend has reportedly demanded the presence of armed guards at his concerts in Italy next Tuesday and Wednesday night as a safety precaution, after bloodthirsty monsters from Islamic State stormed an Eagles Of Death Metal concert at France’s Bataclan Theatre last Friday night and massacred 89 people at gunpoint.

As 7 News reports, Giorgio Zagnoni, artistic director of the Bolognese auditorium where Dylan is scheduled to perform, confirmed the Bard’s request to a local paper.

Apparently, the two concerts will see police standing guard outside the auditorium, while 12 armed guards patrol inside, monitoring the entrances of the hall, the stage and the backstage area, as well as being distributed among the audience.

The artistic director also explained that every possible measure was being taken to reassure Bobby D and his 40-man band, and pointed out that – while this was the first time that an artist had ever demanded extra security at the venue – it was also understandable, given the circumstances.

At the same time, live music venues across the UK and Europe are also ramping up their own security measures to fortify themselves against similar attacks to the one in Paris.

Live Nation has released a statement, saying that it would be taking no chances. “The safety and security of our shows, fans and venues continues to be our highest priority,” the company said.

“Due to the recent events in Paris, and in an abundance of caution, we have implemented heightened security procedures globally. However, because of the sensitive nature of these protocols, we cannot elaborate further on the specific details.”

Live Nation runs Wembley stadium and The O2 Arena in London, where the ATP World Tour Finals are taking place this week. Security has been ramped up at the arena, but access to the surrounding shops and restaurants will be business as usual.

Meanwhile, here in Australia, security at upcoming shows from the likes of Taylor Swift and Madonna could be increased. Fairfax reports that safety upgrades are being considered at concerts for upcoming tours by major international artists, including those presented by both Live Nation and Frontier.

These include Madonna, Taylor Swift, Elton John, Tom Jones, Dawn French and more.

Australia’s terror threat level remains fixed at “High” as of September last year, as the Government assures us that they’re doing everything they can to keep us safe.

In other news today, Eagles Of Death Metal have released their first statement following the monstrous attack on their Paris fans, which also claimed the life of their merch manager, Nick Alexander.

Read the band’s heartfelt message of love and compassion below.

We’ll keep you up to date with any more information as it develops via our Paris Attacks Feed.