Robbie Robertson, lead guitarist and songwriter for The Band, known for his contributions to classics such as “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” has passed away at the age of 80.
Robertson passed away surrounded by his family, according to a statement from his manager.
From their time as Bob Dylan’s backing band to their own success as a group that shaped American music, The Band had a profound influence on popular music in the 1960s and 70s. They played a pivotal role in amplifying Dylan’s transition from a folk artist to a rock star and created a new sound that was deeply rooted in American music.
Robertson, a Canadian-born musician with Jewish, Mohawk, and Cayuga heritage, fell in love with the diverse sounds of his adopted country and wrote songs that expressed his amazement and discovery, particularly during a time when the Vietnam War had alienated many young Americans. Throughout his life, Robertson found himself in the presence of rock legends, receiving guitar tips from Buddy Holly, smoking pot with the Beatles, and chatting with Jimi Hendrix, among others.
The Band, originally known as the Hawks, began as a supporting band for rockabilly star Ronnie Hawkins before evolving into their own musical force. Comprised of Robertson, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, and Garth Hudson, The Band’s versatility and musical depth allowed them to adapt to various genres and settings.
The Band’s first two albums, “Music from Big Pink” and “The Band,” released in the late 1960s, defined their sound. These albums stood in contrast to the psychedelic music of the time, with their intimate mood, playful yet cryptic lyrics, and incorporation of blues, gospel, folk, and country influences. The Band’s selflessness and shared history became a hallmark of their identity, and their songs were covered by numerous artists, including Aretha Franklin, Joan Baez, and the Beatles.
The Band is often credited as a pioneering source of Americana or roots music. Their impact spanned across the music industry, influencing artists like Eric Clapton and contributing to albums such as The Grateful Dead’s “Workingman’s Dead” and Elton John’s “Tumbleweed Connection.”
After decades of success and several albums, The Band disbanded in the late 1970s. Robertson embarked on a solo career and also worked as a soundtrack composer, working closely with filmmaker Martin Scorsese on projects such as “The Last Waltz,” a documentary capturing The Band’s farewell concert. Despite the success, the relationships within the band became strained, with Helm accusing Robertson of greed and ego, and Robertson contending that he had to take control due to the band members’ substance abuse issues.
Robertson’s musical journey continued beyond The Band, as he released solo albums, composed soundtracks, and explored his heritage through various projects. He remained connected to the music industry through collaborations and production work, including his work with Neil Diamond and his contributions to film soundtracks overseen by Scorsese.
The Band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. Robertson attended the induction ceremony, but Helm did not. In recent years, Robertson reflected on his time with The Band through interviews, a documentary titled “Once Were Brothers,” and his memoir “Testimony.”
Robbie Robertson is survived by his three children.
Robertson’s musical talent and his impact on American music will forever be remembered, ensuring that his legacy lives on.
