The Band & Neil Young Helpless

[@EdCampbell-jd5wb]

Tears running down my face … here I am 86 fucking years old, still remember, still feel this … life has been great, the music was even better … wish you were here!

[@azilelaufer9831]

Im 38 born 85. i hatte todays shallow world. Im crying too.

[@davegordon6943]

Your eyes have seen allot. Hope life has been good to you

[@shaserv]

God bless u sir, where with you. My mom just passed she was 82. I miss the wise.

[@cynthiaracicot6502]

Music does the same thing to me.

[@alexwardle8108]

Long may you run pal 😅

[@neilpiper9889]

I am in my 79 and I feel as if I have gone to heaven listening to this gem Joni Mitchell in the background. Canadian bliss

[@EdCampbell-jd5wb]

Ed Campbell here and I’m 86, still mellow, radical, convinced of the political force of music Neil should be prime minister of this turd-filled continent. At least he could make a start towards modernity.

[@puffinbilly6826]

...you kids and your music...

[@jstodalk]

Neil Young, Robbie Robertson, Joni Mitchell, Rick Danko.....all great CANADIAN artists. It makes me proud to be from the Great White North.

[@natpaul4965]

Be prouder of universal healthcare than dope harmonies from the 70s , eh?

[@pamc3338]

Universal Healthcare isn't what's its cracked up to be. You can't choose your doctors and you may need to wait months to see one. Be careful what you wish for bro.

[@Dragonfly3dudes]

And the great GORDON L!!

[@geoffwatts6977]

Well said❤

[@rayfoote]

Me too 🇨🇦

[@schymark8392]

Before this song ends, I just wanna say what a true pleasure of my life it is to be able to hear these people anytime I want to.

[@pamelacox4842]

Dam straight!

[@sandrajensen3069]

Amen, god ie.goo

[@sandrajensen3069]

F

[@rippi37]

Absobloodylutely !!!

[@jamesward8860]

I first got a vhs copy in about 1986 or 87 , then a cd in about 98 or 99, anyhow I've viewed it hundreds of times with countless others and most importantly I've started friendships because of this glorious concert. Those friendships are my favorite type, they start with music and never seem to end. Peace to all

[@jonathansiegel7116]

I was there - in my usual spot stage right, aligned with the mics and just above - watched Joni come out behind all the speakers and do her part. One of the greatest shows I ever attended, starting with the waltz itself, then Thanksgiving dinner. I even bought a tux for the occasion...a few dozen of us were similarly attired. Tickets at the time were an un-heard of $35.00 as I recall. I later regretted not having bought twenty to bring friends along. Three days before, The Band played a warm-up concert down in Santa Cruz to a few hundred of us. The whole thing felt like...family. Truly remarkable. I still smile to think of it all.

[@saraha7642]

Give us more stories, Jonathan!

[@amsterdamsterdam]

More stories!

[@yoyobetsaboo1]

Why was Joni hidden? Did she not want to attract any attention away from Neil and The Band?

[@jonathansiegel7116]

Joni Mitchell came across to most of us as highly vulnerable. Joyful too with inner confidence. Her lilting, almost haunting voice drifting up that evening was like wafting smoke - very ephemeral. I would say that fewer than 25 of us could see her where she stood and sang for Helpless - she later came on out. Curiously, for me this was the high point of the evening.

[@jonathansiegel7116]

Well, we've just passed the 40th anniversary; someone else sang from that stage that "there's nothing you can hold for very long...." These memories are ephemeral, they are here in our minds and hearts. I will say that the film is a fair approximation, but is a bit over-produced and that the event was (pleasantly) more raw. Joni's vocals drift through my mind as the true high-point of the show for me; I'm sure many in attendance would choose different moments. It was truly touching. All you can ask for!

[@SuperMcabral]

Brings tears to my eyes also. Only one member of The Band alive. The Last Waltz was the greatest recorded concert of my generation. besides the Allman Brothers at Filmore East in 1970.

[@annroberts2424]

84 here and still loving this music. We have been lucky to have this recorded to listen over and over.

[@donwilson4618]

1960's -70's was a 20 year span of Magical Music. It is only 50 years later that those of us who lived it are realizing just how magical that time was. It is heartwarming and hopeful to see young people today appreciating and showing respect to the 100's of truly gifted musicians who made that Magic happen.

[@advent6996]

I love Robertson's expression at 1:21 when Neil starts singing. How we all feel! Just can't get over that voice! What a great concert.

[@damienfaure8739]

True!

[@ninjavigilante5311]

I think it was the first part that got him as well because most of them are good ole Canadian boys.

[@edwardfetner2513]

i think it was mainly because he knew what neil was playing, who was notorious for improvising and not going onstage with a plan

[@HooberTube]

I scrubbed to that and HOLY CRAP!

[@haw_n_thorne]

@@ninjavigilante5311 Canuck pride- Robbie is Indigenous too

[@mullen25]

thank goodness this legendary greatness was captured on film for generations to appreciate. these artists are irreplaceable.

[@jamesmcleod2536]

This was one of my dad's favorite concert dvds, after he passed I didn't have the strength to put it on because it would remind me of him. I would break down in tears hearing the music, I get really choked up listening to this even now. Still remembering that big smile he had when my dad would watch Neil Young come stage. I look to my left to the empty chair where he sat and think on the time I would spend with him. Now even that house, the chair is gone. All I have now are my memories, and damn good ones they were for sure.

[@bid84]

James McLeod You dad had great taste and it was obviously a shared passion.

[@alberttait1363]

That is pretty cool!!

[@legend9948]

and you have KZbin through the tears

[@ffm595]

Thank you for sharing this with us, let this be a beautiful reminder of the power of music

[@ENDERTON2000]

Damn...

[@gloriabermudez4987]

No matter what, Neil Young, the genius he is, nailed a song. Thanks to u-tube. Without these videos how could I listen to all this amazing music. True love for rock.

[@courtneydavy123]

This song embodies what so much of North Ontario was really like in the 70s. A lonely place, a beautiful wilderness, but whatever it was to anyone it touched your soul. Amazing memories.

[@fintanoclery2698]

Not much has changed up north.

[@carolbuckley7900]

I was so lucky to be born 1960 and my two older musician brothers filled our home with all the legendary artists including Neil Youmg♥️♥️♥️♥️ I loved his record Zuma. 🌹🌹🌹🌹 I’ve always wanted to see him play in person. ♥️♥️♥️🌹🌹such a tender voice.

[@robbedall1729]

U​@@carolbuckley7900

[@texanfournow]

As someone whose mother was born in Toronto and father was raised on a farm in Ontario, this song has always "struck a chord" in my heart. I spent nearly every summer of my youth in Muskoka, Ontario, and recall waking up in the middle of night, walking out of our rented cottage, and watching the Northern Lights paint the sky, with stars galore as a backdrop. Thank you Neil, The Band, Joni (wow!), and Marty.

[@SandraHelwig]

awesome 😮

[@SandraHelwig]

just great

[@SandraHelwig]

NIEL YOUNG LOVE

[@jennymcmillin5668]

Fabulous memory!!!! 😊😊

[@caseygillis9017]

Lol SOFT!

[@mitchkenvin259]

He may not be your cup of tea, but he was a genius and his greatness cannot be underestimated.

[@DrewPNeck]

He’s my cup of tea. I just turned 40 and I’ve seen him live 9 times. Every time with my mother. First show age 3 in 87. She’s not doing well now and I hope we can go again… at least one more time

[@RidgeMahoney]

Northern California was proud to be his second home for many years. He may not be regarded as Dylan's equal but he is in my book.

[@ridcully]

I reject the premise of your comment!! 😊

[@timmyteaching]

I've always admired Neil taking time to say "it's one of the pleasures of my life to be able to be on this stage with these people."

[@PennyRankin-l9u]

@@timmyteaching 🤗❤️🙌😎🤔🤗

[@philclark8681]

It seemed to me there were some issues between Neil and Robbie. Check it out. It's in the eyes.

[@AF-du5vq]

@@philclark8681 Nahhh

[@WOLFMANoct1963]

how many artist today can walk out with a acoustic guitar, harmonica and standard mic and throw down like that?? Not many

[@colinmoffat3215]

Yes and stoned out his tights too.neil is the man

[@langerguitarboy]

WOLFMANoct1963 Ever notice that we always seem to call today's "pop stars" artists, and not musicians...Isn't that weird? Just a random thought probably doesn't mean anything.

[@ballskin]

Alec John It's because to be a musician you need to know how to play an instrument.

[@comaradella]

Alec John more than you think

[@michelliots]

WOLFMANoct1963 it's wrong for people to act like there's no talented musicians today. There's alot of really great musicians out there these days, it's just that there not recognized enough to become popular, like all those people who are just in it for the attention as an image of fame as opposed to a musician who really has something to offer to the world.

[@samuelsantos7455]

Neil Young is so bad ass that even on cocaine he is a nice guy

[@joebean5916]

💚🧡

[@eugeneaxe570]

Just being Canadian

[@nonniejill]

Samuel, I don't know if NY has ever been on any drugs or alcohol-he has been type 1 diabetic since childhood, also had epilepsy and contracted polio as a child...fragile health he has guarded well, despite coming of age during drug scene...

[@samuelsantos7455]

@@nonniejill Trust me, I know what I saw phicklephilly.com/2017/09/22/tales-of-rock-neil-young-needs-special-effect-to-hide-coke-in-his-nostril/

[@JUANCARPENTERO]

@@nonniejill diabetes and cocaine aren't incompatible, Jill

[@dylanmurphy1075]

The mutual respect on display is palpable. They are so pumped to be sharing a stage. Wow.

[@roseannparker5800]

And a bit of chemical hepl.

[@hannejeppesen1809]

That too.@@roseannparker5800

[@ffm595]

The greatest version of this song. Seeing them look so happy singing together with Joni's echoing vocals is simply breath taking

[@fgsp8909]

and we are fighting against covid now .... i wish i had 30 in 1976

[@damienfaure8739]

I agree with you, it's probably the greatest version of that song.

[@Khem10]

This is the Greatest Live Version Ever of the Song “Helpless” from Neil Young .... Simply Breath-Taking ... all of them singing and the mouth organ music takes you to another level of heavenly happiness

[@josephlemko3027]

The Band, Neil Young & Joni Mitchell on the same stage at the same time, performing this classic song, makes this listener feel like he is in heaven.❤ Peace!

[@daveburns3886]

A Canadian thanksgiving celebration - the whole last waltz celebration/ concerts/ movie- documentary is unparalleled.. it was a grand ballroom feast surrounded by a concert of all rock’s / folk’s greatest- Clapton, Dylan, van Morison, Neil diamond!! Martin captured it perfectly for film

[@josephlemko3027]

​@@daveburns3886: I cannot disagree with one word you wrote. ❤ Peace!

[@ShereeBarrow-dz3ws]

I would give my kidney and a finger to have been there that night. I should have been a musician. They have the best life 💓

[@ShereeBarrow-dz3ws]

Is Canada accepting American immigrants? If trump gets his fat butt into our White House I won't stay here. I'm 96 percent British according to the ancestry thing. Maybe that's an option.

[@josephlemko3027]

​@@ShereeBarrow-dz3ws: I rarely encounter a person who feels that strongly about any subject. Peace!

[@btmacie]

For his high status in the rock and roll community, Neil Young just kinda comes like some socially awkward dude I would have known in high school or something. I find it quite relatable.

[@lildebbie997]

Brendan Macie I know it’s crazy

[@analogkid4957]

Brendan Macie What is it specifically about Neil that people regard him as socially awkward? Is it his geeky appearance so to speak?

[@grandwazoo1696]

I would shoot his barber though lol

[@adambradford9472]

Mildly autistic

[@Resplencemelodi]

Probably Asperger's and a little stoned. he's okay.

[@jaygohel1657]

When Neil joins the band at 4:11 says everything about Neil and The Band. Respect and love

[@johngore7744]

Tons of Canadian talent and the irreplaceable Levon Helm. Thank you America for your influence. Cheers from Montreal.

[@hannejeppesen1809]

I think they were all irreplaceable.@@johngore7744

[@Khem10]

This is by far the best live version, I have ever heard ... the song takes you out in a oblivion of blue sky away and away from this earth in to the heaven.... beautiful notes

[@mart1j99]

The others are Down by the River and . . . ?

[@safetydave720]

One thing I like about Neil is that he is unique. His own style. He didnt follow others, they followed him.

[@MariaGonzalez-lu5nw]

FYI about why Joni was backstage: Joni came out later to perform Coyote and they wanted to keep it a surprise, so she stayed behind the curtains during "Helpless". It's kind of brilliant, imagine not having any idea she was there, and then during the song you hear her gorgeous voice complementing this song....goosebumps.

[@petervanherp7871]

Pure magic and greatness....

[@chuckthesham5195]

I love that silhouette of Joni Mitchell singing that beautiful falsetto seemingly without any effort. Her stunningly beautiful voice soars like a big bird flying across the sky. Thank you, Ms. Mitchell and Mr. Scorsese for getting me out of an emotional mess.

[@Jrfiggy74]

The Angel in the background

[@stevewilson5402]

When immediately I realized it was really the one and only I PLUSSED!

[@jdsavage52]

You may be cool, but you will never be “Joni Mitchell singing harmony from off stage” cool.

[@junkiescumbag6550]

Scorsese? is this performance in a scorsese film?

[@jdsavage52]

You may think you are cool…. But you will never be “Joni Mitchell singing backup from off stage cool” 🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦

[@gregroos-jk7sb]

You are full of shit

[@candywarmuth6241]

Joni was not that important. Young's contribution of sonds is huge compaired. As hae many others.Judy Collins did a much better job singing Joni's song and Joni acted like a spoiled brat over it. I feel likeall teattention she'sgetting is out of pity.

[@sharlenesymcheck7394]

Takes me back to my days growing up with my husband . Close my eyes and I am back in his arms. Hope heavens great as we thought Hon. Still missing you and forever will .

[@paddyross6321]

"They got it now Robbie". Cool as fkn milk...

[@bryansmith9310]

when they all start singing together on the same mic...that is some magical shit right there

[@uwu_biggamerman1406]

Hell yeah

[@lorihill3531]

+bryan smith Until Joni Mitchell started howling in the background.

[@ryanokeeffe3013]

+Lori Hill omg i just started laughing so hard at that thank you

[@montgomerydenzer8805]

+bryan smith TRUE DAT

[@jerrycoleman7150]

+bryan smith very true.

[@deanoemonsjr8543]

I grew up in the late 60's early 70's........what an incredible 'time slot' that was for music. This song along with many others of Neil Young's are the soundtrack to my youth. What a childhood it was.... Neil, you are a treasure!

[@ronabrams7899]

ditto that my brother.

[@avictorbell2835]

Even after all this time this version still brings a tear to my 64 year old eyes

[@Oh_I_Will]

Why

[@petermcmillan3446]

Same age, same response. Bawling my eyes out right now :)

[@michaelbirke6050]

@@Oh_I_Willwhy? Who ripped your heart out?

[@mikew6025]

@@Oh_I_Will If you were there, no explanation is necessary. If you weren't there, no explanation will suffice. Rock on.

[@56Veggie]

​As told in Neil Young: Long May You Run: The Illustrated History, this song is about the town of Omemee in Ontario. In 1949, Neil's parents moved there with him when he was just four years old. Young describes it as "a nice little town. Sleepy little place... Life was real basic and simple in that town. Walk to school, walk back. Everybody knew who you were. Everybody knew everybody." Neil had polio at age six and his family moved to Florida, believing that the warmer climate would aid in his recovery. It is the emotion and sleepy sadness in this song that brings tears to the eyes of those who experienced Neil Young when we were young (i.e., the Forum in Inglewood, late 1970s).

[@ZwienerZ]

When Neil starts singing, I can't help but notice Robbie's huge smile! I love it!

[@rcoates07]

ZwienerZ He realises he is about to be part of something special, yes.

[@jerrydog8671]

ZwienerZ i agree Robbie's huge grin gave me goosebumps

[@justincase1660]

its still a great jam

[@hespheiden1]

+ZwienerZ It's a bunch of Canucks having a special Hoser moment. Gotta like it.

[@thegreatsalaam]

...and taking a deep sniff, never seen a finer performance by peops higher than these guys.

[@michellefletcher2982]

I was told Eric Clapton said this was the best live song he had ever heard. If true, that's an awesome compliment.

[@ninjavigilante5311]

He was probably proud because it's so Canadian.. Eric is half Canadian as well if didn't know.

[@lamolambda8349]

@@ninjavigilante5311 that guy needs to remember to close the windows

[@mr.mayhem8904]

Probably because Mr. Young shared a huge line of blow with him before hand lol. They almost didn’t put this song on the movie because Neil young had a massive rock of cocaine hanging outta his nose but they edited it so you couldn’t see it

[@mikemac7196]

@@lamolambda8349 He wasn't home when that happened

[@nopenope2592]

@@mr.mayhem8904 I noticed that before this video was edited

[@kacchan-guitar]

My heart trembled. I am still moved by this Helpless,from Japan.

[@marksutube]

I see from the comments that many people have questions about this song. The woman in the background is Joni Mitchell. By coincidence, Neil and Joni contracted polio in Canada as children in 1951 during the last epidemic in North America before the Salk vaccine solved polio. They were thousands of miles apart, they did not know each other, they both grew up to become amazing folk/rock musicians. Neil Young has never explained the meaning of "Helpless" and rock critics think it is about the feeling of being stuck in a small town but I am convinced that it is about the emotions of having Polio and not having any idea if you are going to get better or spend years inside an iron lung. That is why having Joni kind of sneak in behind the curtain and sing background vocal during this performance is so special and powerful.

[@rievans57]

When Neil said, "all my changes were there", I immediately thought of teenage angst-

[@RonDoiron-pz3ee]

The true story of this song, in 1969, while on his Canadian Tour, their bus broke down, early evening, on Highway 17 North, at the crossroad, leading into Wawa. The shadow emanating from the Wawa goose, covering their broken down bus, inspired this talented man. Well, I’m 78 now, so, if my memory serves me right, they had a one night gig here, before hitting the highway.

[@SandraHelwig]

l this little cool tale

[@pw3981]

Joni. Another folk legend. Joni Mitchell Blue is one of my all time favorite albums.

[@MoiraRussell]

Joni Mitchell's voice on this is UNREAL. She sounds like a falling angel.

[@rinalore]

Joni Mitchell has always been, a Rising Angel. 🇨🇦✌️🎶🎸❤️✨🌎💫

[@titteryenot4524]

@@rinalore Angels are figments of your feverish imagination.

[@jeffreyhall2136]

Sorry, sounds more like screech owl.

[@ianbartle456]

@@jeffreyhall2136 Should you happen to run across any owls, screech or otherwise, that can write songs like Joni be sure to drop me line as I'd sure like to see that...

[@jeffreyhall2136]

@@ianbartle456 Oh now Joni is a great lyricist too? Thought this was a Neil Young song though. Screeching behind the guitar amp is definitely the highlight of her career.

[@vedderisbetter29]

Neil's nose all full of fun stuff, Joni killing it on the vocals, the band being the band.....One of Canada's finest moments truly :)

[@ninjavigilante5311]

Good ole Canadian boys playing great music before the 90s boom of Canadian music came back

[@benmarkus3675]

If there is ONE thing i'm proud of about being a "Canadian" It's this performance. Neil is all of us, we are all Neil.

[@usware5240]

yeah, I think they had to rotoscope the coke out lol. Still one of the most iconic moments in rock history.

[@usware5240]

and he had a flawless performance. Extraordinary actually.

[@painiscupcake5433]

Those guys contributed at least 10 % to Colombia's GDP

[@brandonromano315]

Rick Danko's backup vocals are so rich and underrated.

[@damienfaure8739]

So true!

[@hannejeppesen1809]

We all love Rick, he was unique.

[@daveburns3886]

Gifted Under-rated

[@anmlgrl26]

This is what real music is.... real lyrics....acoustic. ..I'm in love!

[@legend9948]

Oh yes the 1970's.....after the pill and before aids......we'll never be there again

[@danhigh9396]

Neil is a music legend

[@peterlorenz4114]

Fucking Tears running down the cheeks of a 70 year old man, going through all ups and downs of life.

[@juliadixon8465]

A decade behind you, man, crying along with you

[@JohnQuintiliano]

The best music ever , we have lived to through

[@boboxui6562]

J'ai vu le film avec un frère ❤ dans les année 1978 mon frère est maintenant mort suite à une cirrhose

[@peterlorenz4114]

@@boboxui6562 Sorry for this! In 1978 we were en Ardeche..Hippies..super time there.

[@ChrisKett-l1z]

Stay strong brother!

[@debrablackwell9152]

There is a passion that takes over and this is an example. Neil Young does not play the game. He is what he is and that is a passion for his music. He sings with life rolling off his tongue and his guitar. Those of us who were fortunate enough to experience him in the 70's were blessed, definitely blessed. God Bless you, Neil Young. Thank you for standing for what you believe. I love you, we love you.

[@th70186]

Your comment combined with this beautiful music just gave me goosebumps

[@juliettemacdonald5792]

Debra Blackwell Ya- Neil is from Blind River, Rick from Stratford, Robbie ,Garth, + Richard also are from Ontario. Only Levon Helm is from Elaine, Arkansas but he lived in Woodland, N.Y.

[@aaronlandau5575]

It does help that Neil Young had an enormous rock of cocaine stuck up his nose through this performance, that was later edited out at the behest of his manager

[@CharCanuck14]

@@juliettemacdonald5792 .....and Neil is singing about a town up the road from where I live....little Omemee, Ontario,

[@doneown503]

Hes an awesome Canadian, & human bean!

[@diosantana2659]

My father, born in 1950, was watching this part of The Last Waltz while rocking my 5 month old baby. All of the sudden, she fell alseep in his arms and laid her head on his chest. Another beautiful moment in my life to the soundtrack of 70s rock

[@SuperMcabral]

You are privileged as my adult children are you have parents born in the 50's and preserve our generation's music, the best of all music.

[@jespernielsen8549]

A beautiful song and the best rock'n'roll movie ever made. I remember when I moved away from my parents in 1970, a friend and I listened to this song all night, stoned out of our minds. Good times. Rock on, Neil.

[@ronnyparker]

wish Neil 3wasnt such a proponent of drugs.... fk you too

[@Silmapuoli]

I'm in rehab and this gives me so much motivation to go on. Without Last Waltz and other favourite music I might had jumped out of the window days ago.

[@kylermondello8486]

+Silmapuoli if you look closely you can see the cocaine in Neil's nose.

[@bobmarley12345ify]

+Kyler Mondello lol well placed comment

[@voyagersa22]

You can make it brother. You have good taste. Carry on✊🏻

[@garyfoutch5974]

Silmapuoli I think music is a gift.. given to us.. what we do with it is like all gifts.. If we value its ability to calm us and give peace in our hearts then it can be used as it was originally intended.. granted there is some bad music and musicians but they were given the gift too.. they just didn't treat it like a gift.. maybe they took it for granted or just let it age and not keep its value.. I value Music like you do.. it keeps me sane. I need it fairly often.

[@gageky]

Praying

[@sheehy933]

This truly is a magical moment captured for eternity. From Robbies smile when Neil starts to sing to Rick looking at Neil with a sense of knowing anticipation of the next verse to Rick and Robbie jokingly looking skyward at the "big birds flying across the sky". Hard to put into words but I'll try and say there is a feeling of comraderie exuding from this clip that warms the heart. Yes kids, drugs are bad.....but in this moment in time I believe they accentuated what was already a special moment.

[@hannejeppesen1809]

I think you are right. Robbie wrote in his book, a few hours before the concert he went back to his hotel, to try to get a little sleep, he couldn't. He realized he was exhausted and had been going to adrelin and drugs (probably cocaine), instead of proper nutrition and sleep. His wife brought him some food, and again adrelin kicked in, and most likely cocaine when he go to Winterland.

[@hannejeppesen1809]

After doing some research, it seems that Robbie didn't do much cocaine at The Last Waltz, he had too much too be responsible for. He did write in his book, "When Neil came on stage I knew no one at Winterland was feeling better than Neil".

[@highlyblessed318]

Joni Mitchell on this performance gives me chills and tears at the same time.

[@pbhoidale]

Joni has said many times that this is the greatest song ever written!

[@jeffreyhall2136]

Sorry Joni has a unique voice, but not here. I'd rather just listen to the guys. She sounds like a screech owl in this.

[@somegalfromcan]

Yes! I have no idea why she isn't credited here.

[@robertspence831]

She adds a lot, and it's already a glorious piece of work.........

[@craigslistdave2086]

Neil Young is such a class act it’s a blessing for him to still be with us today, or to even have him at all in our culture. Thank you Neil Young.

[@jerrymariano402]

imagine your back up vocal is JONI MITCHEL, shes a goddess! Wow!!

[@ThaiThom]

Joni and Neil were always friends.

[@jeffreybrian2666]

And Joni is not even a featured face on stage, to boot. Now imagine you had a traveling Joni Mitchell, a "fact" about which very few know, and via personal fiat, you layered songs with her voice without the audience knowing from whom or where it was coming. Joni OnDemand ... look stage right, nod, and Joni will take her place in an unlit corner next to her mic, ready to back up any song (or, to truly mess with the audience, have her sing a cover with no supporting vocals and have the entire band act as if nothing is different). Fun times!

[@LifeForUndead]

Harold and Kumar ?

[@natashacadieux1102]

She is 100 percent a goddess

[@natashacadieux1102]

@@ThaiThom not true, she could not stand him this night

[@brittonlumpkin9227]

Neil hit a little of that nose candy, and then knocked it out of the park.

[@laurenjunette1143]

What I came to say

[@leenewhook7994]

that moment when Neil starts singing and you see Robbie go into a complete different state of mind.

[@fritzy2112]

I'm a full blown southern boy. I don't give a damn what Ronnie say, this southern man needs ole Neil Young around!

[@garybrinker4522]

Roonnie and Neil admired eachother

[@tommyhaynes9157]

I grew up in NC in the 70s .....we all thought Southern Man was complimentary.We weren't reading too deep into the lyrics

[@SusieQsDairyBar]

Are you referencing the Drive-By Truckers song "Ronnie and Neil"?. If not check that song out. It's literally about what you said.....or anyone else reading this, check out that song.

[@scottbird6423]

I heard it was a joke between them

[@SusieQsDairyBar]

@@scottbird6423 There are tons of aspects to it. It's worth a google. I just did and learned a lot I didn't know about the whole situation. Very interesting story for sure.

[@lindafox4335]

Neil Young and The Band together, how lucky to see that.

[@billymurph8125]

THIS IS MY FAVORITE NEIL YOUNG SONG. LAID IN MY BED AT NIGHT AS A KID AND LISTENED ON AN 8 TRACK WITH HEAD PHONES BLASTING NO WONDER I CANT HEAR ANYMORE ... RIP ROBERT LYNCH !!!!

[@timkancar9832]

billy murph p.m.

[@irisis4019]

This is exactly what i’m doing right now, but not i’m not a kid anymore times flies people change but amazing music like this stays FOREVER.

[@diosantana2659]

The look of pure humility and appreciation on Neil Young's face as he walks out. 0:08. Wow. I think he says, "thank you man for letting me do this" or something of the like.

[@joeynarciso94]

Love that guy for all he's done in the bay area with the Bridge School he started many years ago basically for his own son with cerebral palsy. Then I felt so left out that I was hired at the schools I was working at in San Jose after all the contract positions for OTs and PTs had already been filled at the Bridge School that I simply wasn't needed there. Plus then they organized an annual benefit concert at the Shoreline Park Ampitheater in Mountain View so it was just a beautiful thing. Anyway it was all a long time ago since I left CA in the mid 90s. I did see some footage of Mazzy Star performing Fade Into You from one of those concerts though I think from 1994 on ytube

[@ebbw99]

RIP Robbie. What a beautiful tune this is👏

[@clayman9759]

And Rick

[@leavnsmallville78]

I'm sure I'm in the minority here, but Joni Mitchell kind of ruins this for me. There's something about her vocals that don't fit right. It's kind of same feeling I get listening to Natalie Cole overdubbing on her father's recordings. She almost nails the "yellow moon on the rise" line, but the rest of it... I don't know. I kind of wish she'd just stayed off of this one. Most fans of The Band probably regard this as sacrilege, but this has always bothered me.

[@kirkd13]

Nope I've been a friend of the Band since 68 or 69 and I agree with you. She ruins this for me and I don't think they asked her to help.

[@kirstysilvester1]

Totally agree

[@RayasNegroOvejas]

What do you think of Coyote?

[@truthof7382]

Andy Tanner I can kinda agree. I don't like the little fill in she does. Would have liked it more if she just sang the chorus with the fellas. I really like when Robbie and Rick sort of make fun of Neil's baked nature by looking around for the "big bird".

[@stub2022]

Andy Tanner I'm a massive Joni fan, but I have to sorta, kinda...agree that it doesn;t necessarily add anything to the sound. I don't think there's anything wrong with what she did, but Neil's voice is so soulful and when you add the great simplicity of the Band's vocal genius, Danko and Helm, yeah, it didn't need anything else.

[@ashleyburns6752]

This movie is like the 60s finally bowing out

[@heishephaestion4178]

well said..

[@fadeandfringe]

The first time I gave myself to my ex boyfriend this album was on vinyl and immediately after ...this song came on and we laid there and held each other and I will forever remember him by this song and that perfect moment... it ended on bad terms and we haven’t talked in 3 years but thankyou Justin for showing me the gift of Neil Young. Beautiful

[@jasnapanic3621]

I still have this album on vinyl😊😊

[@AlwaysHalloween000]

Rick Danko my favorite rock star of all time

[@zzyyxxo]

+Trev Mac rick danko deserves serious kudos.

[@bamadeadhead]

What? Favorite all time? He just has a cool name that’s probably not real man. You can’t trust those Canadiens😂

[@fgsp8909]

@@bamadeadhead fuck you ricky is the best

[@johnnyfranks19]

best version of helpless ever

[@Intheyr2525]

This was in 1976! I graduated high school that year and met the love of my life. It was a magical magical time that lives only now in my mind. Like that old barn I’d see abandoned off the highway passing by - sad and nostalgic.

[@misi6misi659]

3-20-2020 5:20 AM in my dark basement this blasting from the speakers. Tears. Hope Want.

[@mygrandbabies1]

There is a town in north Ontario, With dream comfort memory to spare, And in my mind I still need a place to go, All my changes were there. Blue, blue windows behind the stars, Yellow moon on the rise, Big birds flying across the sky, Throwing shadows on our eyes. Leave us Helpless, helpless, helpless Baby can you hear me now? The chains are locked and tied across the door, Baby, sing with me somehow. Blue, blue windows behind the stars, Yellow moon on the rise, Big birds flying across the sky, Throwing shadows on our eyes. Leave us Helpless, helpless, helpless.

[@robinwitch666]

Interesting that five out of the six on state are Canadians. Leon was the only American.

[@carolpeskin7078]

Simply the best ever!

[@carolpeskin7078]

Please play this version of "Helpless" when I'm cremated & my ashes are blowing over the Pacific near Big Sur.

[@garyfoutch5974]

Sandra Flett I have not actually heard this song since the late 70's..dropped out of the music scene in 71..started to relearn to play drums a few years ago.. and now it all is now reliving the music I loved so many years ago.. very strange and wonderful at the same time.. my music knowledge.. years of scooling in percussion is now returning with new feelings and expression as if delivered to me via a time machine. Love Neil's music. Clapton is another star fav of mine.. see his vid.. part of the Last Waltz set of 7 vids plus others not in that set of 7.

[@redbarnz]

In my mind, this is the definitive version of Helpless. The whole ensemble made it music magic.

[@laurencehawks1981]

I miss Winterland. So many wonderful nights spent there...I suppose what I'm really saying is I miss my youth.

[@BeNoRed]

Youth and when all we had to worry about was Nixon sending us to Vietnam. This guy and this time coming up? One fuck of a lot scarier.

[@jnorris7322]

You are so right my brother.

[@billypoo2622]

Gerard Nonnel

[@brandoboyer731]

Laurence Hawks don't we all brother! don't we all

[@laurencehawks1981]

Brando Boyer Thank you so much. Good health to you and your family!

[@mellie0402]

THERE IS A TOWN IN NORTH ONTARIO YEHHHHHHHHH ...Love u Neil Young xoxo

[@rogerbass2176]

this is so good

[@jesseslee3617]

Listen to Gwynedd Glynn, Adra...!

[@jesseslee3617]

Meant Gwyneth, Gwynedd is a county,oops.

[@Rips23]

Weep every time.

[@DiamondDave10]

Omemee, Ontario is the Northern Town he was born in

[@kylebyrne8076]

So why was Joni Mitchell behind the curtains?. I'm curious to know

[@mojoglow]

If I remember correctly, Neil wanted her harmonies for this song ...but they wanted to save her "grand entrance" until later in the show - when she sings her material. It's in the commentary of the DVD. TONS of stuff you can learn in the DVD bonus features. I highly recommend owning it. ✌️❤️🎶

[@Souoermutant]

They were all well aware that Mitchell was the best muso by a country mile at that stage.. Young and Dylan were 2 and 3 at the time. Far as I can recall, they organised the Last Dance around her arrival.

[@Clarkwork]

Not sure how you can press thumbs down on this. One of the most beautiful songs ever.

[@isleafs13]

Jeff, some people are just negative by nature.

[@nikkiavery7240]

Jeff Clark It's always been my favorite ❤️️ ! I could listen to this one song all day .

[@jagger4786]

SgtVirg they are not negative they just have no feeling for music and no education .

[@LDixon007]

It's easy to confuse the thumb icons when your eyes ares are filled with tears.

[@kurtcole9574]

love playing this song with my friends band, the MOUNTAIN BROTHERS BAND I play the bass, easy to play, and I enjoy that

[@mary241056]

his harmonica speaks louder than any lyrics ive ever heard. I love it

[@ifwegoatall3312]

Joni’s voice is a presence and the silhouette of her is such a great shot… its enough to bring tears to your eyes.

[@andrewchandler7959]

How on this earth, nearly 50 years ago, can these guys make sounds like this. I am sitting In my English garden, in the late afternoon of an English summers day, covered in goosebumps and with emotion high. When there is so much hate I. The world right now. Thank you guys. You’ll never know🤗

[@jeanpazerunas5494]

who plays 2 instruments at once and is lead singer at the same time? I don't get how Neil does this!

[@543Molly]

One of my all time favorite performances!.. Truly beautiful ❤❤❤

[@cormacdavid7355]

Hello Molly 👋 How are you? So sorry for the infringe on your privacy. Beautiful song

[@tpstrato2270]

His voice is pure gold. He is unique. No one else sounds like him. This is one of my favorites. He expresses pure emotion. Helpless. He expresses the pain of loss perfectly. What a great artist. Thanks Neil Young.

[@KIKINITCHITA]

IDEM DE FRANCE

[@Oldgrandman]

One of the greatest pieces of all time, this entire concert!

[@micheletranchida7264]

The best performance in this concert. Neil & Joni Amazing.

[@edejan]

Classic. Neil Young is one of the greats of our time.

[@mrdaleward5278]

I love robbie reaction when young started singing 👌❤

[@ruddle17]

This is one of the greatest live performances captured on film - Joni lending her magic to Neil and the guys at the legendary Winterland

[@Oh_I_Will]

Doesn’t touch Rooftop

[@damienfaure8739]

One of my favorite versions of that song. When I feel down, this version gives me warmth and I feel less sad.

[@Feasco]

Two great artists united on song and thinking Joe Rogan is a shithead

[@sandybezuidenhout]

Damn, really!! Sorry Led Zeppelin sometimes you just have to step aside. This is just magnificent 👏

[@hannejeppesen1809]

I'm a huge fan of The Band, I'm of that generation. Love Neil as well. Other favorites The Doors, I just could never get into Zeppelin.

[@apocalypseplough8089]

To all the Americans here, you're welcome. ~ Canada

[@apocalypseplough8089]

***** For nurturing great talent like Neil Young and The Band.

[@marianvictoriliescu7567]

+Apocalypse Plough i love flower power

[@DanielEvitt]

You gave them Bieber and fucked it up.

[@n40tom]

Apocalypse Plough You mean thank you for opening our arms to Neil and appreciating his talent.

[@CHlEFFIN]

tackless What kind of a pathetically nationalist comment is this...? Is this a pissing war to see whose DESCENDANTS (highly unlikely due to multiculturalism, thankfully) did the 'most' for the rest..? PATHETIC. Enjoy the fucking music and realize this is not about who can piss the farthest.

[@jloryan29575]

Priceless, priceless, P r i c e l e s s

[@curtissanders5044]

Joyce ORyan YOUR RIGHT!!!! priceless...

[@tommyreed3967]

Gives me goosebumps everytime.. R.I.P dad x.. You was right all along.. neil young one of the greatest. What a track 👌

[@jcjc9155]

The Last Waltz performances were so good. I can't do anything but believe that God (if he exists) dropped what he was doing to watch this i amazement that night.

[@simonsalloom5214]

Blows my mind every time I hear this version of Helpless. Mythically awesome, wish I was there. Beauty in the finest most rare sense.

[@desireedasilva2750]

this song could wash down on me forever, and I'd still hit replay. The best.

[@markmiller3450]

OUTSTANDING, how else can a person describe Mr. Neil Young. Thanks for everything for all these years.

[@desmondhume8071]

best version of this song ever

[@Juliaraye566]

agreed sir...agreed

[@marktaronji4694]

Every song performed that night was the best version of that song. What a magical night. There will never be a collection of musical talent like there was that night.

[@pancakewsx]

Mark Taronji Yes, all songs were special on that show. Though this version is so much better than a studio one from Stills, Crosby, Nash and Young album. Maybe because Neil Young was high af, maybe due to the atmosphere there, but what we hear here is a true masterpiece :)

[@giuseppegirgenti9354]

È uno dei grandi del rock

[@paulheywood4990]

The consumate version !!! Music ain't made that way now!!!

[@beckyfinch6628]

This the greatest concert ever to be on screen!!!! I just can't say enough about it!!!! The Band was just SO F'N GOOD!!!! And then there is Neil Young, with Joni howling in the back!!!! Jesus Christ can it ever get better than this?!!! HELL NO I SAY!!!!!! THE BAND.....WHAT A GREAT NAME FOR THEM!!!! THEY WERE ALL SO TALENTED.. HELM, DANKO, HUDSON, ROBERTSON AND MORE, NOT TO MENTION THEIR GUEST ON HERE!!!! I WATCH IT TWO OR THREE TIMES A YEAR, AND HAVE FOR FORTY YEARS AND COUNTING!!!❤️❤️✌️✌️❤️❤️

[@jakewoodburn9461]

love what Neil says at the start, classy guy. Love it!

[@skateinpeace69]

At 2:43 when he sings “chains are locked and tied across my door” he’s fuckin feeling it

[@tednugent8501]

skateinpeace69 Hes fkn gettin it!!!!!

[@kyoku1982]

Here I am on Canada day listening to perhaps the most Canadian music moment of all time.

[@analogkid4957]

Wouldn’t Rush be elevated as the most popular Canadian band?

[@kyoku1982]

​@@analogkid4957 Hard to say. Rush has a huge cult following but I dont know if they have the mainstream following of Neil or the Band.

[@bobmcrae5751]

@@analogkid4957 I grew up on the west coast of Canada in the 60's and 70's and Rush was NEVER played on the radio. They were strictly an eastern band. So no, Rush was NOT the most popular Canadian band.

[@donborgal975]

Joni Mitchell on backup vocals!! The talent on that stage!! :)

[@barrypower62]

fuckiiiing greeàtte baz

[@walterceuppens2656]

+Don Borgal Oh Joni Mitchell!

[@tinamarief51]

This was the 2nd song I learned to play after Fire and Rain. I was 14 yrs old. It's 3 chords! I drove my parents crazy 😃. I sang my heart out in my room. Good times Thank you NY ♥️ FYI when Scorsese was editing the Last Waltz NY had coke visible around his nose, they had to take it out frame by frame! Keep on rockin in the free world

[@CherieBasile]

D, A and G 🙂 . The quintessential chords of country rock 💛 . Add an Em, and you’ve got “Knocking’ on Heaven’s Door”. It reminds me of the famous quote about country music: “Three chords and the truth”. So beautiful. So true. I loved your story, Tina.

[@TomokosEnterprize]

Sweet memories of days now long passed. Man sure has taken a dive down since those days of peace and love !

[@kevrockism]

I always put this up there as one of the best pieces of music iv ever heard ...LOOOOOVVVEEEE IT