Canada has lost a music icon.
Robbie Robertson has passed away after a battle with cancer.
The lead guitarist and primary songwriter with the legendary folk rock group “The Band” was born in Toronto in 1943 and was known as a master storyteller throughout his career spanning multiple decades.
Photo by Jim Marshall
Starting with Ronnie Hawkins and the Hawks, Robertson would go on to play with greats Levon Helm and Bob Dylan, before starting “The Band” with the former.
Robertson penned hits such as “The Weight”, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down”, and “Up On Cripple Creek”, becoming an integral part of the Americana music scene.
The musician was also known in the film industry for his collaboration with Martin Scorsese, who documented The Band’s farewell concert, “The Last Waltz”.
Photo via Twitter
Robertson was 80-years-old.
Statement from Robbie Robertson’s family.
📸 Luis Sinco pic.twitter.com/NEzXIU1ss9
— The Band (@TheBandOfficial) August 9, 2023
