The Band: A History

In this special episode, I pay tribute to the late Garth Hudson, a true legend in the music world. Known for his innovation, unparalleled creativity, and distinctive style, Garth was more than just a musician—he was a visionary who left a mark on the industry. I reflect on his extraordinary career, his contributions to iconic music moments, and the unique legacy he leaves behind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pantheon Media CEO Christian Swain invites you to check out the American Masters: Creative Spark podcast. It's like a front row seat to a masterclass on the creative process. We've become regular listeners, and hope you enjoy it too.

I break down James Mangold’s A Complete Unknown and Timothée Chalamet’s take on Bob Dylan. From the film’s beautiful portrayal of Greenwich Village to its underdeveloped characters and missed historical depth, I explore what works—and what doesn’t—in this ambitious biopic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This holiday season, we’re diving into The Band’s heartfelt Christmas track, Christmas Must Be Tonight. Written during their Northern Lights – Southern Cross sessions, the song blends timeless storytelling, soulful harmonies, and a fresh take on the Nativity. I explore its origins, musical brilliance, and why it’s a hidden gem that deserves a place on your Christmas playlist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Song With... returns featuring my friend and one of Canada's best songwriters, Jerry Leger. Jerry selected "Tears of Rage" from The Band's first album, Music From Big Pink. We delve into the song's significance, the songwriting collaboration between Richard Manuel and Bob Dylan and the various track versions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Band: A History, we explore Robbie Robertson's journey into crafting his debut solo album, influenced by his vision of "The Shadowland." After focusing on film scoring, Robertson returned to music in the mid-1980s, collaborating with key figures like producer Daniel Lanois to create an atmospheric, cinematic sound. We dive into the making of the album, Robertson’s strategic decisions, and partnerships with renowned musicians and producers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're thrilled to welcome author Stephen Lewis to The Band: A History as we dive into his upcoming book, Richard Manuel: His Life and Music, from the Hawks and Bob Dylan to The Band, which will be released in May 2025. In this episode, Stephen shares his journey in writing the book, his deep connection to The Band, and some never-before-heard stories about Richard Manuel. This is an episode you won't want to miss! You can pre-order the book now through the publisher's website or major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

By the end of the 1970s, Rick Danko found himself in an unexpected place. After the release of his first solo album on Arista Records didn’t sell well, and with management in flux, Arista dropped him. Despite this, Danko continued to tour, collaborate, and perform in smaller, more intimate venues, showcasing his character and musicianship. Collaborations with former Beach Boy Blondie Chaplin, Richard Manuel, Paul Butterfield, and even actor Gary Busey highlighted his versatility. Woodstock ‘79, a smaller and less impactful event than the original, featured Danko performing with Butterfield. This era also saw Danko contributing to Joe Cocker’s chaotic version of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and Larry Lee’s album “Marooned.” This period of triumph and tribulation is a testament to Danko’s enduring spirit and love for music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Song With returns featuring my friend and Chest Fever bandleader, Daniel Cervantes. Dan selected "Just Another Whistle Stop" from The Band's third studio album, Stage Fright. We delve into the song's significance to him, Robbie Robertson's scorching lead guitar, Richard Manuel's captivating vocals, and the various interpretations of the lyrics and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After navigating a tumultuous phase in his life marked by heavy drinking and the disbandment of The Band, Richard Manuel entered rehab, marking a pivotal step toward reclaiming his passion for music. In 1978, returned to the studio with old friend Happy Traum, contributing to Traum's debut solo album "Bright Morning Stars." He also collaborated with musicians Terry Danko and Marty Grebb and reconnected with Gerry Goffin for songwriting. Manuel's musical revival included working with Bonnie Raitt on her critically acclaimed album "Greenlight" and joining Willie Nelson and Webb Pierce for a spirited session on "In The Jailhouse Now." This period marked a creative resurgence for Manuel, blending his soulful voice and piano mastery across diverse projects while reflecting on his enduring connection to The Band. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A new episode of "A Song With," where I chat with guests about their chosen tracks from The Band and the stories woven within them. There are no constraints; it could be a passionate case for why a song reigns supreme in The Band's repertoire, a personal narrative or bond, or simply revelling in the joy of listening. In this episode, Luke C. Bowden joins me. He is a music journalist, academic, and concert promoter. Luke's pick is "Ferdinand The Imposter," an outtake from the Music From Big Pink era. We delve into the various song versions, the musical and lyrical songwriting, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Levon's solo albums are pure, egalitarian magic and joy." - Matty Wishnow After a dedicated grind in the late '70s, Helm ventured to Nashville, inspired by his role in the lauded film Coal Miner's Daughter. There, with the city's top session players, he created his seminal album, American Son, in 1980. Helm, almost forty, forged a path to new creative horizons, trying to position himself for a new musical renaissance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to our series "A Song With," where I chat with guests about their chosen tracks from The Band and the stories woven within them. There are no constraints; it could be an impassioned case for why a song reigns supreme in The Band's repertoire, a personal narrative or bond, or simply revelling in the joy of listening. In this episode, I'm joined by Michael Koelher,, a dear friend and show editor. Michael's pick is "Twilight," a non-album single from 1975. We delve into the various versions of the song, the songwriting, both musical and lyrical and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another installment of Odds & Ends, a series of mini-episodes that invites you to explore the hidden treasures within The Band's extensive musical library. This episode reveals the depths of Richard Manuel and Robbie Robertson's artistic collaboration within the 1967 composition "Katie's Been Gone." From the exquisite composition to the speculated ties with Greenwich Village folk luminary Karen Dalton and the enigmatic drummer behind the scenes, this episode of Odds & Ends is a comprehensive exploration of everything. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the premiere of our new series, "A Song With," where I chat with guests about their chosen tracks from The Band and the stories woven within them. There are no constraints; it could be an impassioned case for why a song reigns supreme in The Band's repertoire, a personal narrative or bond, or simply reveling in the joy of listening. In our debut episode, I'm joined by the wonderful Annie Burkhart, a dear friend of the show and the force behind Manuel Mindset on Twitter. Annie's pick is "Jawbone," featured in The Band's eponymous second studio album. We delve into the intricate musical layers and the collaborative songwriting prowess of Richard Manuel and Robbie Robertson and even ponder its modest streaming figures. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Breanna McCann and Teagan Lisson to dive deep into The Last Waltz at 45. This legendary film resonates with audiences, even after four and a half decades. As we gather to celebrate its forty-fifth birthday, we have a relaxed yet engaging conversation that encompasses various facets of this cinematic masterpiece. We delve into the intricacies of the film itself, exploring its enduring allure and the genius behind Martin Scorsese's direction. Beyond the camera, we explore the remarkable journey of The Band and the profound cultural and musical impact the film has. You can follow Teagan's podcast, Our Golden 20s, online and listen every Tuesday. You can also find Breanna McCann's work on Split Tooth Media, where she writes about music and film. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our inaugural episode delves into "Orange Juice Blues," a soul-stirring composition by Richard Manuel, crafted in 1967. This evocative song has a story over several decades, and in this episode, we shall examine its evolution and the profound resonance it holds. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this unique episode, I intertwine history with engaging conversation. The Band made their inaugural appearance at Massey Hall in 1970, a highly anticipated hometown performance that critics hailed as nothing short of a "religious experience." Massey Hall holds a revered place in Toronto's cultural heritage, akin to the Ryman Auditorium, situated north of the border, and it has hosted some of the greatest performers in its hallowed halls. On November 18, 2023, Chest Fever, who received the official seal of approval from Robbie Robertson before his passing, will bring their outstanding celebration of The Last Waltz to Massey Hall. Joining them will be an illustrious lineup of guest artists. I sit down with Chest Fever to explore their journey from the intimate confines of Toronto's Horseshoe Tavern to the grandeur of Massey Hall. We delve into their meticulous preparation, the mounting anticipation, and much more! If you're interesting in attending the event, you can visit http://chestfeverofficial.com/thelastwaltz and use my promo code "thebandpodcast" for five dollars off. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amidst the initial turbulence of his inaugural solo release and subsequent tour, Levon Helm and his ensemble found themselves grappling with an unfortunate dearth of problems. Plagued by undisclosed health adversities and the intricate orchestration of conflicting timetables, Helm sought solace within the confines of the studio, setting in motion the creation of yet another album. Mirroring the approach of his maiden endeavour, he enlisted the renowned Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section. In 1978, the fruits of his labour materialized in the form of his latest record, bearing the succinct name "Levon Helm. Determined, Helm tried to rekindle his solo career and finally garner the recognition he deserved. If you're in Toronto or want to come up for a special evening, Chest Fever is doing a Last Waltz Celebration at the legendary Massey Hall on November 18, 2023. Buy tickets here.  The Band: A History is produced, written and hosted by Tyrell William Lisson and post-production sound and editing by Michael Koehler. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I try and put a few words together to honour Robbie Robertson, a legendary guitarist and songwriter. In lieu of gifts, Robbie's family has asked for donations to the Woodland Cultural Centre here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices