RIP Robbie Robertson

 

I've just heard that Jaime "Robbie" Robertson, the legendary songwriter and guitarist of The Band has passed away at the age of 80. Robbie and The Band have meant so much to me since I first heard The Weight on a '60s compilation tape and wondered what this gorgeous, enigmatic music was. Robbie's greatest songs conjured up visions of misty mountain vistas and tough city streets, peopled by prospectors, hustlers, gamblers and lovers. His guitar-playing was subtle and masterful, blending rock 'n' roll grit with Soul slickness. As well as his sterling work with The Band and Bob Dylan, and his own solo career, Robbie was also a long-time musical collaborator with movie great Martin Scorsese, and also dabbled in acting himself. He was a wonderful raconteur and his eye-opening tales of the grimy ups and downs of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle were always fascinating but never judgemental.

He was truly a legend in the music business and will be greatly missed.

"I pulled into Nazareth, was feeling 'bout half past dead..."

RIP Jaime "Robbie" Robertson ( 5th July 1943 - 9th August 2023 )

Should you be interested in more of my thoughts on Robbie and The Band, you can find an old post from my 15 Albums blog here, where I witter on about The Band's classic second, self-titled album.

Manchester moments

Sarah and I had a great couple of days in Manchester recently while we were in that fair city for the Pulp gig ( more of that, of course, to come ) and I thought I'd share a few photos here. I'd never been to Manchester before ( in fact, I'm embarrassingly ignorant of the North of England ) and thought it was just the coolest place, easily living up to its cosmopolitan reputation. I loved the juxtaposition of old and new architecture, the canals, the bridges, the trams, and the unexpected sight of dozens of urban geese just hanging around, see below. We'll definitely have to go back when we get the chance.