John C. Reilly leads “Cox Across America Tour” in character :: Music News :: Articles

Given the breathtaking scope of his career, it's hard to find something new and revelatory to say about Dewey Cox. Simply put, his music is the prism through which America's hopes and dreams have always refracted. Even as the strife of his era raged all about him, Cox stayed true to his vision. His style might have changed, but his fundamental message did not: live free, walk hard, and embrace the love of Cox. In truth, it's impossible to separate the myth from the reality when discussing this inscrutable musical enigma.

Thank goodness he's a fictional character.

Yup, there's been no shortage of bombast surrounding the promotion of Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Cox's creators have done a fine job of building him up into an absurdly mythical figure. But soon, the public will finally have a chance to get an intimate glimpse at the man behind the marketing avalanche. That's right: John C. Reilly is putting on his acting face and hitting the road for a quick, seven-gig tour of American cities as Dewey Cox.

Entitled the "Cox Across America Tour," the dates include screenings of Walk Hard at each stop, followed by a performance of the movie's tunes by Cox and his backing band, the Hard Walkers. The tour, fittingly enough, starts out at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

"Not since Duran Duran toured America in 1984 have people been so excited about a rock tour," crowed producer Judd Apatow in a press release.

Dude... don't forget Poison and David Lee Roth in '88!

Hard walkin' dates:

December
5 - Cleveland, Ohio @ Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
6 - Chicago, Ill. @ The Cubby Bear
7 - Austin, Texas @ Stubb's
8 - Nashville, Tenn. @ Mercy Lounge
10 - San Francisco, Calif. @ Great American Music Hall
13 - Los Angeles, Calif. @ Guitar Center on Sunset Blvd.
19 - New York, N.Y. @ The Knitting Factory

So what about tickets? Well, according to the tour's press release, passes will be given away through radio promotions in the seven lucky cities, and can also be purchased by members of Dewey Cox's fan club. Visit CoxAcrossAmerica.com for more information on joining the Cox Cult.

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