The Band: A History

Dec 15

This episode follows guitarist Jim Weider, from growing up in Woodstock to finding his way onto the road with Levon, Rick, Richard, and Garth. We trace how he joined The Band in the mid-’80s, held things together through years of hard touring, helped shape their final studio records in the ’90s. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 27

In this mini episode, we dive into Robbie Robertson’s Insomnia — a vivid, late-life reflection from one of rock’s most self-mythologizing figures. Less a memoir and more a cinematic vignette, Insomnia captures the years between 1976 and 1980, when Robertson drifted through post- Band life alongside artists, filmmakers, and excess. The song played during the episode is entitled "At Last" from Scorsese's Raging Bull, produced by Robertson and performed with his former bandmates Richard Manuel and Garth Hudson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 22

In this episode, we revisit The Band’s unexpected 1983 reunion six years after The Last Waltz . With Robbie Robertson absent, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, and Garth Hudson came together once again, proving their music still carried power and soul. We trace their individual journeys in the late ’70s and early ’80s, the spark that brought them back, and the raw energy of their “The Band Is Back” tour. From theatre gigs and surprise Bob Dylan appearances to sold-out shows across Canada, Japan, and the U.S., this was more than a comeback, it was a second life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 15

On the 54th anniversary of Cahoots , we hear The Band’s most grown-up record. Less legend, more real life. We stay with six songs, “Life Is a Carnival,” “When I Paint My Masterpiece,” “Last of the Blacksmiths,” “Where Do We Go from Here?,” “The Moon Struck One,” and “The River Hymn.” Work, doubt, change, and faith said plainly. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 16

In our series Odds & Ends we dig into Band deep-cut, “Get Up Jake”. You’ll hear how a scrappy LA studio outtake grew into a live showstopper on Rock of Ages , and even survives as a raw hotel-room demo. We’ll break down its driving groove, Helm’s backbeat, Danko’s bouncing bass and that shout-along chorus and compare the lean, two-minute studio take to the full-throttle live version and the stripped-down Calgary jam. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jun 9

Stephen Lewis returns to explore his new book Richard Manuel: His Life and Music, from the Hawks and Bob Dylan to The Band . We explore the life and struggles of Richard Manuel, diving into his early years, his role in the Band, and the toll fame took on his confidence. We talk about the dual identity Richard held—as both a gifted performer and a deeply sensitive songwriter. The conversation covers the highs and lows of Richard’s career: the creative energy he brought to the group, his battles with addiction, and the tensions that shaped the band’s relationships. They examine the challenges of collaboration, how personal issues affected the music, and the impact of the 1980s on artists like Richard. Make sure you pre-order the book today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apr 22

Levon Helm’s move to Capitol Records in the early '80s was his final shot at keeping his musical vision alive. His bold choice to record at the iconic Muscle Shoals Sound Studio represented his commitment to authentic Southern rock at a time when synth-pop and MTV hits dominated the airwaves. Featuring a remarkable lineup of musicians, his second solo album, simply titled "Levon Helm," embodied his dedication to musical honesty over commercial success. Songs like "You Can't Win 'Em All" and "Money" showcase Helm’s gritty realism and uncompromising style. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 24

This episode pays tribute to the late Garth Hudson, whose recent passing reminds us of his monumental impact on music and sound art. We explore his groundbreaking work, Music for Our Lady Queen of the Angels , created for the 1980 Los Angeles Bicentennial. A pioneer of experimental sound art that set the standard for generations, Hudson reshaped the possibilities of sound, leaving a truly unique legacy. Rest in peace, Garth Hudson. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices