The Band: A History

This episode pays tribute to the late Garth Hudson, whose recent passing reminds us of his monumental impact on music and sound art. We explore his groundbreaking work, Music for Our Lady Queen of the Angels, created for the 1980 Los Angeles Bicentennial. A pioneer of experimental sound art that set the standard for generations, Hudson reshaped the possibilities of sound, leaving a truly unique legacy. Rest in peace, Garth Hudson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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

The Band: A History sits down with writer, columnist and author Jude Warne to discuss her recent essay on The Band's 1970 studio album Stage Fright, which is part of a larger scholarly study of The Band entitled Rags and Bones: An Exploration of The Band published by the University Press of Mississippi. You can find Rags and Bones: An Exploration of The Band here and visit Jude's website here.

“I was looking for a simpler, fresher routing... I really like this new group. I can go out and perform the record now.” Rick Danko was now out on his own. Nearly two decades with The Band left him wanting more. More music, more touring and more control. He told Harvey Kubernick in 1978, “I’m the focal point on stage this time, and it doesn’t bother me. I put this new group together, I telephoned them all. I sought out personalities who could bus and fly together and continue to put up with...

With the break-up of his band and his family, Levon Helm did what he knew best, make music. While The Band was all but extinct, Helm continued to tell journalists they’d keep making music. However, he started putting together a new band, and he moved back east to set up permanently. As he recalled, “I decided to remain in Woodstock. I loved the town and the people and the way of life too much to sell my house and relocate.” The Band: A History is produced, written and hosted by Tyrell...

The Band: A History sits down with Chest Fever, the official revival of The Band. If you remember my interview a few months ago with Mrs. Henry, a great band from California. In that case, they are back with a new project, Chest Fever, a band that has been given the stamp of approval to carry on the musical legacy of The Band. They are taking their show on the road for the fiftieth anniversary of The Band's live album Rock of Ages, touring across the United States and Canada. I chat with...

The Band: A History sits down with legendary recording engineer, mixer and record producer Bob Clearmountain, whose innovative approach has led him to work with industry-heavy-hitters like Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, and The Rolling Stones. Having mixed Robbie Robertson’s first solo album in 1987 and sharing a working relationship since it made sense to bring him aboard when tackling the 50th anniversary of Music From Big Pink in 2018. Bob has been back, working on all subsequent...

Assembling in the studio at various points during 1976 through 1977, The Band put together a plan for Islands. It was described later by Robbie as being similar to The Who’s Odds & Sods album. In essence, it was a hodgepodge of older recordings along with some newer cuts to complete their eight album record deal with Capitol. Regardless of all of the exterior distractions, The Band were still professionals. They were incapable of putting out terrible music and they assembled ten tracks that...

“Nobody’s done what Bob Dylan’s done for us over the years. He helped Rick and Richard write those songs and was part of our workshop. Bob Dylan knew that The Band was not in great shape, and he wanted to help us out of the sense of goodness he felt for us.” Pressure was mounting on The Band who hadn't put out a critically acclaimed album in some years, nor were they getting on personally like the once had. With the group calling California home, and setting up in Malibu they established a...

The Band: A History is joined by The Hippie Historian to talk about The Band's steeped history in Southern Ontario. We take you to some of the historic venues they played, the towns and areas in which they lived and much, much more. Find out more about the road trip and support The Hippie Historian here. Summer Garden Farewell The night is chill, the ballroom deserted The sound of dancing feet is gone The sound of music has faded away There is no sound of voices, they have disappeared...

We review the new Robbie Robertson documentary "Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson and The Band" that just premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival directed by Daniel Roher and executive produced by Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard and Brian Glazer. Please Consider Following Us: Instagram: @TheBandPodcast Twitter: @TheBandPodcast Facebook: /TheBandPodcast The Band: A History is part of Pantheon Podcasts. Listen to The Band: A History and a variety of other great podcasts over on...