Day 5 - 62 -- Musical Throwback

The wind was blowing overnight and throughout the day. It isn't anything like the wind speeds experienced along the eastern seaboard of the US. It is expected to continue into tomorrow as the storm passes by out in the Atlantic. As a typical weather bomb, a nor'easter with pressure drops of at least 24 millibars in 24 hours, this one has been rather nasty. Flooding and blackouts have occurred in many larger urban areas.

While grading papers for both courses today -- and there is still a pile left for the next two days -- I had the TV on in the background. The movie, The Band: The Last Waltz, was playing. The Band had its origins in Canada with Canadian and American members and colleagues. The sound of their music began the genre known as Roots Rock. Many wonderful songs caught my attention today, many of which were sung by the same group member. I found this interesting as I'd have expected those I enjoy so much to have been sung by the songwriter instead. 

I just couldn't narrow it to a single song, so I've got three to share today. They are all written by the same amazing songwriter and sung by another band member. The first has an historical lyric that some say led to coining the term roots rock. It comes from the perspective of a poor farmer during the end of the US civil war. The second selection for today has a lighter feel to it in terms of lyrics and tempo. The third selection shared here may be the song the group is best known for, though it didn't rise past the top 40 in Canada (and had a lower listing in the US), it is one that immediately comes to mind when someone mentions The Band. Enjoy! 

The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson) 

Ophelia -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson)

The Weight -- The Band (sung by Levon Helm; written by Robbie Robertson)