Normally we try to feature new music videos on this segment, but with the unfortunate passing of Levon Helm, drummer and singer of The Band, yesterday after succumbing to the final stages of cancer, I decided to focus on the rock legend.  Born Mark Lavon Helm in Elaine, Arkansas in May of 1940, Helm was ironically the only American born member of the group who specialized in their own Americana sound.  The Band, formally known as the Hawks, first gained note as Bob Dylan's backing band in the mid 60s during his electric phase, but soon following the tour, set up shop in Woodstock, NY where they would record their debut, and best album, Music from Big Pink.  After the group disbanded in the mid 70s, Helm enjoyed a successful solo career of recording and touring.  Over the last 10-15 years, Helm performed his Midnight Rambles, a concert series at his Woodstock home "The Barn", while also hitting the road from time to time as long as his health allowed him so.  And just as recently as last year, he brought his band to UB's Center for the Arts for an amazing night of music. 

Below, check out "Ophelia", off the group's Northern Lights - Southern Cross album, taken from the documentary The Last Waltz, The Band's farewell concert, directed by Marin Scorsese in 1976 at the Winterland Ballroom in San Francisco.  Filmed on Thanksgiving night, the group was joined by Neil Young, Dr. John, Van Morrison, Neil Diamond, and more to give a proper farewell to the legendary group.  Audience members were even served a complete Thanksgiving dinner.  As always, Helm's steady drumming and stellar vocals were the highlight of the song.  Enjoy and thanks for the memories Levon.