Robbie Robertson, of the Band, dead at 80 in Los Angeles

Robbie Robertson of the Band, dead at 80Photo byBob Dylan and The Band - 1974.jpg: Jim Summariaderivative work: Io Herodotus, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://

The leader of the rock group, The Band, Guitarist-songwriter-singer Robbie Robertson, has died at the age of 80

According to an announcement from his management, Robertson died Wednesday in Los Angeles after a long illness.

Robbie Robertson’s manager of 34 years, Jared Levine, said in a statement, “Robbie was surrounded by his family at the time of his death, including his wife, Janet, his ex-wife, Dominique, her partner Nicholas, and his children Alexandra, Sebastian, Delphine, and Delphine’s partner Kenny. He is also survived by his grandchildren Angelica, Donovan, Dominic, Gabriel and Seraphina. Robertson recently completed his fourteenth film music project with frequent collaborator Martin Scorsese, ‘Killers of the Flower Moon.’ In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Six Nations of the Grand River to support a new Woodland Cultural Center.”

Robbie Robertson, born on July 5, 1943, was Canadian musician, songwriter, and producer renowned for his significant contributions to the world of rock music. He first gained prominence as the lead guitarist and primary songwriter for the iconic rock group, The Band. His distinctive guitar work, poetic songwriting, and collaboration with other band members helped shape the group's unique sound.

Robertson's songwriting often delved into themes of American history, myth, and the human experience. His compositions, such as "The Weight," "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," and "Up on Cripple Creek," are characterized by their narrative depth and emotional resonance. His ability to craft storytelling within the context of rock music set him apart as a visionary artist.

Beyond his work with The Band, Robertson embarked on a successful solo career, releasing several albums that showcased his versatility and growth as a musician. His self-titled debut solo album in 1987 featured collaborations with renowned artists, further solidifying his status as a respected figure in the music industry.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Robertson's contributions extended to film as well. He scored and contributed to soundtracks for numerous movies, collaborating notably with director Martin Scorsese on projects like "Raging Bull" and "The Departed."

Robbie Robertson's impact on the rock music landscape was profound, influencing generations of musicians and songwriters. His ability to tell evocative stories through his music and his skillful guitar playing have left an indelible mark on the industry. With a career spanning decades, Robertson's legacy continued to resonate through his recordings, performances, and enduring influence on the world of music.

He will be missed.