I was saddened this morning to learn of the death of Levon Helm, drummer and vocalist with The Band, the acclaimed and influential American/Canadian rock group of the 1960s and 70s.
Levon's distinctive voice and drumming style played a crucial role in the special appeal of The Band. He provided much of the essential grit and soul, which together with other ingredients, made their music so captivating and unique. As the lone American in a group consisting mostly of Canadians, this input was regarded as very important.
Not only did Levon supply some memorable lead vocals to the Band, but he also played an integral part, with Richard Manuel and Rick Danko, in the gloriously ragged and endearing harmonies which suffused their early albums.
His drumming has I think been somewhat overlooked in comparison, and I think that he was one of those instrumentalists whose personality and enjoyment is transmitted and conveyed directly through his playing. This was also true of his singing.
Levon Helm will be greatly missed.
No comments:
Post a Comment