Saturday, February 10, 2007

He Shall be Levon


Levon Helm, drummer and founding member of The Band, is performing at The Beacon Theater in New York City on March 17 with The Levon Helm Band. The Beacon holds about 2,800 seats and is well known in the music community as the site of a run of Allman Brothers Band dates every spring. Now, Levon hasn't had a radio hit since before the original lineup of The Band played their last concert in 1976 over 30 years ago. In fact, Levon's rare public concerts these days take place at his home in Woodstock, NY where he performs for a handful of paying guests. I wouldn't exactly say he is at the forefront of mainstream music today. Most of the concert goers these days weren't even born in 1976.

Did I mention that Levon sold every ticket in the place in 15 minutes?

The Band's music is timeless, honest, and raw. It is based on a blend of country, blues, and rock & roll that isn't glamorous but it touches a nerve. And clearly, the demand for such an artist, contrary to current radio playlists, hasn't diminished. I'll see you at the show.

UPDATE: Second show added for Friday, March 16th. Click here for details.

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