It was released today that Levon Helm is in the final stages of throat cancer which he has been battling since the late 90's. Helm is most recognized for his work with The Band, who have not only been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame here in the States, but also the Canadian Music Hall of Fame up North.
Though his voice may had been damaged, Helm's musical endevours continued throughout the early 2000's with his renowned concert series "Midnight Ramble" or "The Rambles" at his studio and home in Woodstock, New York. Guest performers for "The Rambles" include: Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, Dr. John, Chris Robinson and Donald Fagen. After regaining his voice, Helm released the album Dirt Farmer in 2007 followed by Electric Dirt in 2009, both winning Grammys. Then just last year, he released a live album of his performance with his band from The Rambles at Nashville's Ryman Auditorium entitled Ramble at the Ryman, which took the Grammy for Best Americana Album.
His daughter Amy, who has performed with the Levon Helm Band, along with his wife Sandy posted a heartwarming word of thanks on the opening page to LevonHelm.com...
"Dear Friends,
Levon is in the final stages of his battle with cancer. Please send your prayers and love to him as he makes his way through this part of his journey.
Thank you fans and music lovers who have made his life so filled with joy and celebration...he has loved nothing more than to play, to fill the room up with music, lay down the back beat, and make the people dance! He did it every time he took the stage...
We appreciate all the love and support and concern.
From his daughter Amy, and wife Sandy"
From his daughter Amy, and wife Sandy"
Our thoughts and prayers are with Levon and his family. He is an amazing inspiration and his music has touched so many.