I’ve not listened to The Band that much, but there is no denying their influence. From their early days as Bob Dylan’s backing band to The Last Waltz they were pioneers of roots rock and one of the early iconic Canadian rock bands. ‘The Weight’ may be one of the best known rock songs of all time, though not many known its actual title or who sings it. I was listening to the radio on my way home and Levon Helm was described as the backbone of the The Band. Robbie Robertson may be the best known member and main song writer, but Levon was the glue before and after their first break-up.
I was fortunate enough to see Helm live in 2010 at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, which the video below is from. He wasn’t able to sing much then, but just having his presence there was magical. We’ll miss you Levon, but you’ll live on through the amazing music you’ve left us.
