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The Woodstock Music Shop has unveiled its latest addition -- the Levon Helm Room, dedicated to the work of the legendary Arkansas-born Band drummer, who recently was honored with a Grammy and has for several years been experiencing a remarkable resurgence.
The room is packed with CDs, DVDs, T-shirts, caps, mugs and other items celebrating and reflecting the extraordinary portfolio of work that has made Levon a true American classic.
A longtime Woodstocker, Levon has deep roots in our town and has always given back. His Midnight Ramble sessions have emerged as "must" experiences for fans and music lovers of all kinds. And his live performances continue to inspire, delight and exhaust audiences across the country.
Levon refuses to slow down. He’s credited in 14 feature films and finished filming one more due out later this year. In October, he released his first solo album in over 25 years, bringing him back to his original Southern roots. “Dirt Farmer” was recorded at his studio in Woodstock, where the Midnight Ramble sessions are held, and includes Amy Helm, Levon’s daughter from Ollabelle, Larry Campbell, known for his stint with Bob Dylan’s “Never Ending Tour” band, and Teresa Williams, Campbell’s wife. "Dirt Farmer" won a Grammy in the Best Traditional Folk Album in February. The 13-track album, dedicated to his parents, contains both traditional and contemporary songs.
Levon was a member of Bob Dylan's band before The Band was born and created a string of classic albums that would help redefine the rock/country music landscape. They were immortalized in the Martin Scorsese film "The Last Waltz" in 1978 and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
In 1998, Levon underwent surgery and radiation treatment for throat cancer. He endured rigorous therapy to successfully treat the disease, but his vocal cords were damaged in the process and his strong voice was replaced with a raspy whisper. He didn't sing again until 2004 during one of this Midnight Rambles.
Go to www.levonhelm.com for more information about his Rambles. And please visit the new Levon Helm Room at the shop.
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