The Band: A History

Pantheon Media

4.7 (164)
MUSIC HISTORY
UPDATED MONTHLY

Exploring the history of Canadian-American roots rock group, The Band.

OCT 22

Robbie Robertson (Album)

In this episode of The Band: A History, we explore Robbie Robertson's journey into crafting his debut solo album, influenced by his vision of "The Shadowland." After focusing on film scoring, Robertson returned to music in the mid-1980s, collaborating with key figures like producer Daniel Lanois to create an atmospheric, cinematic sound. We dive into the making of the album, Robertson’s strategic decisions, and partnerships with renowned musicians and producers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 3m
OCT 22

Introducing American Masters: Creative Spark

Pantheon Media CEO Christian Swain invites you to check out the American Masters: Creative Spark podcast. It's like a front row seat to a masterclass on the creative process. We've become regular listeners, and hope you enjoy it too.

3 min
SEP 10

Interview: Stephen Lewis

We're thrilled to welcome author Stephen Lewis to The Band: A History as we dive into his upcoming book, Richard Manuel: His Life and Music, from the Hawks and Bob Dylan to The Band, which will be released in May 2025. In this episode, Stephen shares his journey in writing the book, his deep connection to The Band, and some never-before-heard stories about Richard Manuel. This is an episode you won't want to miss! You can pre-order the book now through the publisher's website or major retailers like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

1h 22m
AUG 5

Woodstock '79

By the end of the 1970s, Rick Danko found himself in an unexpected place. After the release of his first solo album on Arista Records didn’t sell well, and with management in flux, Arista dropped him. Despite this, Danko continued to tour, collaborate, and perform in smaller, more intimate venues, showcasing his character and musicianship. Collaborations with former Beach Boy Blondie Chaplin, Richard Manuel, Paul Butterfield, and even actor Gary Busey highlighted his versatility. Woodstock ‘79, a smaller and less impactful event than the original, featured Danko performing with Butterfield. This era also saw Danko contributing to Joe Cocker’s chaotic version of “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and Larry Lee’s album “Marooned.” This period of triumph and tribulation is a testament to Danko’s enduring spirit and love for music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

26 min
JUL 31

Just Another Whistle Stop with Daniel Cervantes

A Song With returns featuring my friend and Chest Fever bandleader, Daniel Cervantes. Dan selected "Just Another Whistle Stop" from The Band's third studio album, Stage Fright. We delve into the song's significance to him, Robbie Robertson's scorching lead guitar, Richard Manuel's captivating vocals, and the various interpretations of the lyrics and music. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

41 min
MAY 21

Breaking New Ground

After navigating a tumultuous phase in his life marked by heavy drinking and the disbandment of The Band, Richard Manuel entered rehab, marking a pivotal step toward reclaiming his passion for music. In 1978, returned to the studio with old friend Happy Traum, contributing to Traum's debut solo album "Bright Morning Stars." He also collaborated with musicians Terry Danko and Marty Grebb and reconnected with Gerry Goffin for songwriting. Manuel's musical revival included working with Bonnie Raitt on her critically acclaimed album "Greenlight" and joining Willie Nelson and Webb Pierce for a spirited session on "In The Jailhouse Now." This period marked a creative resurgence for Manuel, blending his soulful voice and piano mastery across diverse projects while reflecting on his enduring connection to The Band. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

42 min
MAR 24

Ferdinand The Imposter with Luke C. Bowden

A new episode of "A Song With," where I chat with guests about their chosen tracks from The Band and the stories woven within them. There are no constraints; it could be a passionate case for why a song reigns supreme in The Band's repertoire, a personal narrative or bond, or simply revelling in the joy of listening. In this episode, Luke C. Bowden joins me. He is a music journalist, academic, and concert promoter. Luke's pick is "Ferdinand The Imposter," an outtake from the Music From Big Pink era. We delve into the various song versions, the musical and lyrical songwriting, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

51 min
MAR 3

American Son

"Levon's solo albums are pure, egalitarian magic and joy." - Matty Wishnow After a dedicated grind in the late '70s, Helm ventured to Nashville, inspired by his role in the lauded film Coal Miner's Daughter. There, with the city's top session players, he created his seminal album, American Son, in 1980. Helm, almost forty, forged a path to new creative horizons, trying to position himself for a new musical renaissance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

50 min

See All (61)

4.7

out of 5

164 Ratings

Fantastic podcast

Feb 6

Powpowsteamy

My dad introduced me to The Band when I was in middle school. I’ve always been fascinated with their music and history ever since. This podcast relives one of the greatest bands of all time and I’m really glad I stumble upon this informative show. I’ve only had time to listen to a few select episodes but can’t wait to dive in more. Thanks for the time and effort put in to each episode!
Last Waltz

11/10/2023

RocknRollGary

Really enjoyed your recent Last Waltz podcast. It was very insightful. One thing, I think you should have compared the film to the concert film getting all the attention this year, Stop Making Sense which came out about 10 years later. I think the director of that one, the late Jonathan Demme, was definitely influenced by The Last Waltz. Notice though that he had no interviews in the film, just the music.
Excellent!

11/09/2023

UncleMosely

Love this podcast. Listen to the episodes over and over!
Solid

08/18/2023

swiftxcut

Great pod, I’ve listened to certain episodes multiple times. One thing I will say is the audio could be a bit louder at times (my job is loud)