Behind The Music Season 1 Episode 33 Robbie Robertson

Behind The Music is a documentary series that delves deep into the lives and careers of some of the biggest names in the music industry. In season 1 episode 33, the focus is on Robbie Robertson, lead guitarist and primary songwriter for legendary rock group, The Band.

The episode begins by exploring Robertson's upbringing as a member of the Mohawk Nation in Canada. His love for music began at a young age and he was influenced by a wide range of styles, from blues and folk to rock and roll. At the age of 15, he joined Ronnie Hawkins and the Hawks, which eventually led to him joining Bob Dylan's backing band.

Robertson's time with Dylan was a turning point in his career. He played a pivotal role in Dylan's shift from acoustic folk to electric rock and roll, which was met with controversy by some fans and critics. Robertson talks about the challenges of being part of such a controversial moment in music history.

After leaving Dylan's band, Robertson formed The Band with fellow musicians who had also played with Hawkins. The Band became known for their unique sound, blending rock, folk, and country influences with poetic, storytelling lyrics. They released several iconic albums, including Music from Big Pink and The Band.

The episode delves into some of the key moments in The Band's career, such as their appearance at the Woodstock festival and their legendary concert, The Last Waltz, which was filmed by Martin Scorsese. Robertson discusses the challenges of being in a band and the eventual decision to split up in the late 1970s.

Throughout the episode, Robertson reflects on his own personal struggles, including substance abuse and the deaths of several of his bandmates. He also talks about his experiences working with some of the biggest names in music, such as Eric Clapton, Van Morrison, and Neil Young.

The episode concludes by exploring Robertson's more recent work as a solo artist and his efforts to preserve and promote Native American culture through music and film. Robertson's influence on the music industry is clear, and this episode of Behind The Music provides a fascinating look at his life and career.

Overall, Behind The Music season 1 episode 33 is a must-watch for any fans of The Band, Robbie Robertson, or music history in general. The episode is full of insights and anecdotes that shed light on some of the most pivotal moments in rock and roll history.