“Robbie Robertson, Iconic Band Guitarist and Songwriter, Dies at 80”

Robbie Robertson, the renowned guitarist and primary songwriter for The Band, has died at the age of 80. Robertson’s management company confirmed his passing and stated that he was surrounded by his family at the time. Robertson played a crucial role in shaping the pop-culture landscape with his Americana music, and his influence was felt by artists such as Eric Clapton, the Beatles, and Elton John. He was also known for his collaboration with Bob Dylan and his involvement in the legendary farewell concert of The Band, “The Last Waltz.” Robertson’s contributions to music will be greatly missed. Andy Greene reported

Robbie Robertson, the guitarist and primary songwriter for The Band, passed away at the age of 80. His management company confirmed his death and stated that he was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing. Robertson was responsible for writing many beloved classics such as “The Weight,” “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” and “Up on Cripple Creek.”

The Band, which only lasted eight years, made a significant impact on the pop-culture landscape. Their debut album in 1968, Music From Big Pink, sent shockwaves through the industry and inspired other musicians such as Eric Clapton, the Beatles, Elton John, and Bernie Taupin. Robertson took on the role of the group’s leader and wrote the majority of their songs, guiding them through substance abuse issues and conflicts. Eventually, in 1976, Robertson decided to end the group, leading to their legendary farewell concert, The Last Waltz.

Before forming The Band, Robertson collaborated with Bob Dylan and played guitar on his album Blonde on Blonde. He also convinced Dylan to hire the other members of his group as his backing band. They faced backlash from folk purists during their tours in 1965 and 1966. Robertson was born in Toronto to a Native American mother and Jewish father. He began playing guitar at a young age and joined Ronnie Hawkins’ backing band when he was 16.

During a break from touring, Dylan brought Robertson to Nashville to play guitar on his album Blonde on Blonde. They later worked on The Basement Tapes together. In 1968, the group changed their name to The Band and Robertson took the lead in their songwriting process. Their first album included the hit song “The Weight,” which became a global success and was covered by numerous artists.

Over the next eight years, The Band achieved more success with hits like “Up on Cripple Creek” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” However, by 1976, substance abuse issues and burnout led Robertson to decide to end the group. The Last Waltz, their farewell concert, was filmed by Martin Scorsese and is considered one of the greatest concert films of all time.

Robertson and Scorsese developed a close bond, and Robertson served as the musical supervisor for several of Scorsese’s films. Robertson married journalist Dominique Bourgeois in 1967, and they had three children together before divorcing. Robertson’s son, Sebastian, published a children’s book called Rock and Roll Highway: The Robbie Robertson Story in 2014, showcasing his father’s life and legacy..