The Band The Weight

[@crimdell]

The Weight is one of those songs that whenever you hear it, you CANNOT turn it off or stop listening. You simply MUST listen to it through to the end.

[@lelandpowell5223]

The drummers name was Levon Helms he was also an actor. He played the old gunsmith in the movie Shooter

[@chiconeededthemoney]

Levon Helm, the drummer and singer, played Sissy Spacek's father in "Coal Miner's Daughter." That movie is about the life of Loretta Lynn.

[@1719456]

The drummer is the late Levon Helm. Such a distinctive voice.

[@saltinewarrior8192]

Went to Watkin's Glen for a concert in 1973. There was the Grateful Dead, the Allman bros. and the Band. The first two were great, but The Band blew them away. Was there with about 600,000 fans (Woodstock had 400,000).

[@pazoo25]

musicians don't care about genres; just about sweet soulful songs and the community that we all exist in. Appreciate Modern Renaissance Man's enthusiasm and observations.

[@onsesejoo2605]

Garth Hudson is on the organ and other keyboards. He also plays saxophone and acccordeon. Richard Manuel is the pianist and backup singer. He also sang some lead parts and composed for the band. Robbie Robertson is the guitarist and he was also the main songwriter in the group. The bassist/singer is Rick Danko. Sadly Hudson and Robertson are the only orignal members alive at the moment.

[@humpy936]

onsese joo Manuel also played the drums, and Levon Helm could play just about anything but most often he would be playing the mandolin, If he wasn’t on the drums, and he did most of the lead vocals.

[@TheDivayenta]

The unforgettable Mavis, Pops and sisters of the Staples. ❤️

[@marypulley6512]

Mr LEVON HELM IS ON THE DRUMS, with his clear beautiful voice

[@lavenderhearts101]

I like the way Pops daughter smiles when her Dad is singing. ❤️🎶

[@arlenehenry1097]

Refreshing! Isn't it? If it wasn't for bands back in the day ...legacy for future generations to comment. No one comments bout today's music..

[@SuperVonKiller]

Levon Helm the drummer was truly one of the greats!!!

[@stanhankins3175]

One of the best videos of all time.

[@wm.shultzie2275]

The late great Levon Helm on drums, very cool guy!

[@solitarybee3714]

I'm 75 and had forgotten what a magnificent song this is. I am just so gratified every time I sit down at my computer, go to KZbin, and call up some great music from the past. Not only do I get to hear it, I get to actually see the performance in all it's glory - what a treat! Back in the day you had to catch as catch can, whatever performance might be on TV or the radio. I love this one very much.

[@michaelboismier1863]

I hear you! I'm 72, and was Groovin to this so much. Being Canadian, I just loved that 4 fellow Canadians got together with Arkansas drummer to form the Band! And who could top the great Gospel group "The Staples!!

[@ronaldstokes4841]

@@michaelboismier1863 Also 75! (How'd we get here?) When I saw this in 'The Last Waltz' for the first time I was floored. The Band had so many great songs that everyone knows, but when Ya say The Band, they say Who?

[@Nortonork]

Great old song. But Jesus, the Staple singers take it to a whole new level...

[@bigbow62]

Bout time The Band starts getting some love on these music reaction channels ! Another great tune is "The Night They Drove Ole Dixie Down ~ Levon Helm ( Drummer / Singer ) is amazing in this performance 😎 ( R.I.P Levon ) If you have 4 free hours check out The Last Waltz concert by The Band and a few of their friends..... Eric Claption, Muddy Waters, Van Morrison, Paul Butterfield, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Neil Diamond, Joni Mitchell, Dr John... etc. One of the greatest concerts ever ✌😎

[@richardpowell1220]

Up On Cripple Creek is another great song featuring Levon Helm. And yes, The Last Waltz is one of the all time great concert movies. Don't forget The Staple Singers, who help make The Weight the best song from the best concert movie of all time.

[@bigbow62]

@@richardpowell1220 .....Up On Cripple Creek is great & another favorite of mine is "The Shape I'm In" ( Richard Manuel / R.I.P ) & his oh so very cool voice 😉🎹 ( .... & yes of course The Staple Singers.. just amazing !

[@markmyers6472]

@@bigbow62 Evangeline with Emmy Lou Harris..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqKnoq19fJ2Vl5I

[@bigbow62]

@@markmyers6472 yes... shame on me for forgetting Emmy Lou 😇🎙 Thank you Mark ! ✌😎

[@bigbow62]

I also forgot the guy that started it all.... "The Hawk" Ronnie Hawkins ✌😎

[@anitaparker6213]

Mavis Staples what a legendary voice.

[@lindanadeau1884]

Levon was their American singer. The rest were Canadian. RIP Levon, Rick Danko, and Richard Manuel.

[@AD4MRick]

I loved Levon Helm's playing and singing. RIP.

[@kevinwebster576]

He's gota be one of my favourite singers

[@allencunningham5033]

One of the most soulful human beings ever. From a tiny town in arkansas. Amazing

[@kallyand]

oh man...The Band is so so wonderful..great to keep you company in a day when your all alone

[@keef7224]

Watch The Last Waltz, the greatest rock & roll concert film ever made!

[@bigbow62]

A 4 hour celebration of music... with some of the greatest ever!✌😎

[@humpy936]

True!

[@andrewsmith3737]

you got that right. shoot, I have the Blu-ray and I got the urge to go watch again.

[@kennethkierbow5916]

How many Rockumentaries are directed by Martin Scorsese... You have to be a serious bad ass... You would have to be..... wait.... THE BAND....LOL

[@magnustrygg5632]

Amen to that

[@annieh5479]

I saw The Band back in the day - they were awesome. RIP Levon Helm (drummer), he was one of the greats. And, , Member and Manager of the Staple Singers, Dies at 80.

[@scottcrosby-art5490]

Levon Helm had a voice of gold

[@amylafferty3092]

The Staple Singers have MANY worthwhile, beautiful songs! What amazing voices!

[@cbilky2914]

The Weight from the Documentary ''The Last Waltz'' directed by Martin Scorsese I own it on DVD and I watch it every Thanksgiving. It was The Band's “retirement” show that was shot 43 years ago on Thanksgiving day 1976 in San Francisco. it has Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Muddy Waters, Dr. John, Neil Diamond, and the Staple Singers and about another half-dozen rock stars from the ’60s and ’70s. When Mavis starts singing..chills!!!!!

[@sweetpepper959]

Yes! Such a great movie. It’s history.

[@cbilky2914]

@@sweetpepper959 Yes it is.. a favorite part of mine is when Van Morrison sings ''Caravan'' love love love it

[@bigbow62]

Best concert / documentary ever..... I bet I've watched The Last Waltz 100X ✌😎

[@williamvanness2625]

I watch it once a year with my son too, usually on thanksgiving or Christmas

[@simchabaruch3109]

I also love Vans performance, I think he maybe the inspiration for the Grateful Deads dancing bear.

[@bam5971329]

That was The Band with special guests The Staple Singers.

[@raulcardenas8115]

Rick Danko on bass. One of the most soulful and beautiful voices in all of Rock music. R.I.P.

[@natlee8947]

Garth Hudson was playing organ, he is fantastic on keyboards also accordion and sax.

[@billsbus827]

J J Garth was on piano on this. Richard on organ

[@dougmphilly]

billsbus827 Garth and Richard were an orchestra between them.

[@philliphutson7250]

And The Band’s music teacher.

[@garymccoy6564]

@@billsbus827 That is correct. Richard Manuel on organ.

[@bytor21122112]

Garth Hudson = The Band's secret weapon

[@denisejacob2032]

I love that you are experiencing so many classic, timeless artists & their songs. These songs will last forever! You gotta remember this song was from 1968! Over FIFTY years ago 🎼🎤

[@mikeregnier4040]

The Band had five musicians and singers. Staple Singers take it to another level.

[@magnustrygg5632]

Music can’t sound any better than this! This is Black & White, North & South. Its almost a taste of what to come when our messiah, Jesus, arrives. God Bless you M.R.M. my brother in Christ. BR from Sweden

[@markkmiecik9797]

The right tune allows four genres or more without changing the tune, even simultaneously. That's one of the measures of a great composition. I got soul, jazz, country, and r&b, and then some. Loved the end when they all happened together but you could still hear each individually.

[@bigkw1568]

Great tune ...Now you see why the music of the era will live forever ...In my opinion it's the greatest ever .. RIP Levon

[@torrimcarthur8334]

I miss Levon got tears in my eyes and heart good times listening to the band

[@michaelsmith-fw9bm]

After the band split up the drummer went on to do several support rolls in movies, probably his biggest roll was in the movie "The SHooter". LOVE THIS song and movie

[@romonabrown7330]

When Mavis Staples comes in with that gorgeous instrument of hers, I get chills every time. And I've seen this a hundred times.

[@Montyhugo]

LOVE THIS VERSION ❤THE MOVIE (THE LAST WALTZ)CAME OUT 43 YEARS AGO LAST WEEK🤘

[@sweetpepper959]

I first I remember really listening to this song, was on the ‘Easy Rider’ movie soundtrack. This is a great classic song, and this film was just amazing.

[@richardweaving1976]

The Band and the Staple Singers - what a combination!

[@lpeora]

The white guys are members of The Band, the black singers are the Staple Singers.. and the soul just drips off them.. great artists. and this is a great combination. They blend extremely well together and in my humble opinion, just goes to show what can be accomplished when folks work, and collaborate together. I must agree with you, I just LOVE this performance.

[@dragonfly1153]

I named my son Levon after the drummer/singer, because he was a great RENAISSANCE MAN!

[@allencunningham5033]

There was nothing Levon couldn't do. Not an iota of training to be an actor and his appearance in "Coal Miners Daughter" stole the show. He was so natural and creative at anything he did

[@kurtiswichmann4699]

I get all emotional when I see The Band. They were a bunch of standup guys, especially Levon Helm the gentleman on the drums who helped a lot of musicians get noticed. He was loved throughout the music world. sure miss him, he's passed away, and so has the family that was The Band. You'd enjoy "Love For Levon" bluray and cd. You'll see how many people showed up to honor Levon with a concert of his songs.

[@waynegray1380]

I grew up about ten miles from Woodstock, N.Y., met Levon and he gave me a tour of his recording studio, what a thrill.

[@bettyholland6347]

The drummer Levon Helm is from Marvell Arkansas in Phillips county, Conway Twitty was raised in West Helena, Arkansas in Phillips county, both great singers

[@hooleyqueen]

I remember when this film was made. The Black Gospel group here is the Staple Singers who were first called the Staple Family singers as it was a father and his 3 daughters. The lead vocal is mavis Staples who went solo years ago after "Pops" Staples died. she has become a huge star. I have Always loved her.

[@dragonsong1023]

This video was taken from the movie ( The Last Waltz ) 1976. It was a film of The Bands final concert, which featured musicians & singers who have inspired them throughout their years. The video that you just watched was shot separate from the concert & the singers who performed with The Band , were The Staple Singers ( an R&B / Gospel singing family ). If you get a chance check out the movie ( The Last Waltz). It was a live concert, Directed by Martin Scorsese ( who directed (The Aviator & Raging Bull )) to name a few.

[@okie9795]

This from the movie “The Last Waltz”. Final concert by The Band. So many famous artists joining in. Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Staple Sisters, Neil Diamond, Van Morrison, Ringo Starr. 1976 in San Francisco. Such a awesome event with legendary friends saying adios to The Band as a band. Members of The Band did have great solo careers on their own.

[@lawrencemay8671]

Levon Helms the lead singer and drummer of the “The Band” had five number one albums in five different decades. Levon Helms and the Band was Bob Dylan’s back up band for ten years. They made a live concert that had the likes of George Harrison, RingonStarr, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, among about ten other artists playing with “The Band”. Levon Helms had gotten vocal chord cancer later in life, but came back and made another number one album about 10-12 years ago. Levon describes their first gig at The Skyliner Club in Dallas Texas owned by the Notorious Jack Ruby. He was in several movies. One he was Chuck Yeagers sidekick in “THE RIGHT STUFF”. Also he was the Sniper “SAGE” in Shooter the guy Mark Wahlberg visited. Loved the question Mark asked Levon “are you positive those guys are dead? Levon replied “positive, still have the shovel in my shed!

[@roxanneeasterly7343]

I have heard this so many times ,,, BUT ,,, this has to be one of the Best versions !!

[@rodgeorge7244]

Garth Hudson is the organ player, Richard Manuel on piano, Rick Danko on Bass Guitar, Levon Helm on Drums and the brilliant Robbie Robertson on Lead Guitar and he wrote that song and a lot of their other songs as well

[@paulprendergast3184]

The song was written by Robbie Robertson. It's generally about all of his experiences traveling around the US having left Canada as a 16 year old to tour with Ronnie Hawkins. Levon Helm was the drummer's. The Hawks later recruited Rick Danko, Richard Manuel and Garth Hudson. The Hawks toured with Dylan and the became the Band. The other singers in this were the Staples Singers

[@lethalweapon4052]

This is one of my favorite songs. Not sure if you have seen it but its also played in the movie The Big Chill. I think you might enjoy the movie. In the beginning the dead guy in the morgue is Kevin Costner, it was his first movie appearance.

[@757optim]

A great classic. So good. This version with The Staple Singers is a cherry on top.

[@corvus1374]

The Band is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Robbie Robertson, who wrote this, is in the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and is a member of the National Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is number 59 in Rolling Stone's greatest guitarists of all time. Levon Helm, the drummer is number 91 on Rolling Stone's greatest singers of all time. The Band were a backup band for Ronnie Hawkins, when they were called The Hawks, and for Bob Dylan, who named them The Band.

[@kennylogin155]

Havent heard that in a long time, but pure class. glad you liked it and it was recommended for you

[@ewetoobblowzdogg8410]

Two years later Ty and I hope you're still revisiting this epic performance. It's songs and artists like this that help us get thru these crazy days.

[@aloh4633]

The Band was formed in Toronto, Canada as The Hawks, the musicians behind Rompin' Ronnie Hawkins and The Hawks. They played for 8 years as that group prior to moving to upstate New York to be on their own. They also were the backing musicians for Bob Dylan when he went electric.

[@juanaboynkin1196]

I have gotten to see Mavis Staples several times and every time was amazing!

[@erwinpadgett1050]

This song was in the movie 'Easy Rider". It's old and has been been done many times and ways with different singers. Look on You Tube for many other versions and with different Singers! I love this version as well as the first Version of it! The Staple Singers add a Dept of Soul this song already had to a new level! It's on my Playlist since the day I heard it!

[@jumplittledoggiejumpjump9112]

The Band was like the "house band" that many many big names played with over the years. very respected.

[@bernadettelanders7306]

I have still have all my vinyl Albums of The Band. Great music. Singing along here to this one 😊

[@Jemoja77]

They were the backup band for Bob Dylan from '65-67 when he was making the transition to electric music. There were called Levon and the Hawks. Dylan got alot of flack from folkies for the transition, and tours were not very successful. He had a motorcycle accident in '66 and had to recuperate so he went to Woodstock New York, and invited the band up there. They secluded themselves in a big pink house that they called The Big Pink. Their debut album as The Band was titled Music from the Big Pink and is considered one of the most influential albums in rock and roll. Levon Helm, the drummer, was always phenomenal and sadly has passed away.

[@gabtalk7737]

First time commenter, glad to see The Band get some modern day exposure. The Weight is a great song. Both Levon Helm and Robbie Robertson were rare talents. Robbie did a song for the movie (or tv show) called Shine Your Light, it’s a beautiful song. I’m not sure how you go about recommending songs but if you ever get the chance. Like I say I tuned in for the first time when I saw this Band selection. Great job, I will subscribe and look forward to seeing more great tunes.

[@richdiddens4059]

The Band started out as a group of studio musicians who were in great demand as a unit. They played for everybody including Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Neil, Diamond, Muddy Waters, etc. They went out on their own and did several albums of great music. Eventually they all wanted to go in different directions and decided to split up. Their goodbye tour was called The Last Waltz. The final night of the tour was filmed and recorded. 4 1/2 hours,40 some songs and about 30 guest artists, most of whom they'd played for as studio musicians. Many of the guests played their own songs that The Band had played on. The movie and the album cherry picked certain songs, rearranged their order, and overdubbed "corrections". There are a few places you can find video of the whole concert. It's long but worthwhile.

[@mikemcnamara6119]

The band were never studio musicians they started off the late 50s early 1960s that Ronnie Hawkins Canadian rockabilly singer they were called the Hawks he became the band in 1968 in the last walls was the last concert it wasn't a tour

[@hannejeppesen1809]

The Last Waltz was not a tour, it was their final concert on Thanksgiving 1976 filmed by Martin Scorcesese. It was at Winterland in San Francisco.

[@charleshonig7080]

Ty, this is from The Last Waltz,which was The Farewell concert of the Band, You should check it out,best Live Concert of music stars I ever saw.

[@scuppernog1]

I love this performance of this song. There is also one featuring Robbie with Ringo Star and many different musicians and vocalists from all over the world playing on it. It is great as well.

[@lynnarthur-stillalive2025]

MRM ... loved your reaction to this video. I get the shivers every time I watch this performance. THE BAND. And c'mon... the Staple Singers! 'The Last Waltz' has been recommended many times. This performance is from that film. Exquisite rock-u-mentory directed by Martin Scorsese ❤️

[@elizabethyow2232]

I saw the tribute to Levon Helm on the Grammy awards several years ago and seeing Mavis singing this song about made me cry, I love her. Also, it was the first time I ever saw Brittney Howard of Alabama Shakes and I was blown away. Who! Is! That!!!!!! She stole the show.

[@ginamontminy4339]

This concert was called "The Last Waltz". They performed it on Thanksgiving and fed the audience. The Band was a back up band for performers like Dylan, Staple Singers (who performed this song), Clapton, and so many more. This was a farewell performance of The Band. They got back together again later. The entire album should be on your playlist.

[@nicebluejay]

yes!! you noticed the organ. one of the hidden gems of this performance.

[@kerdiditra]

“The last Waltz “ is a video you should make the time to watch. Lots of great musicians that showed up to send off “The Band” .... also , I believe that a full thanksgiving dinner was served to the public that day ..,

[@bigbow62]

Yes Dave that is true.... not bad,a great meal and one of the most historic concerts of all-time ✌😎 Now that's what I call the ultimate dinner & a show 😉

[@chiconeededthemoney]

The documentary was directed by Martin Scorsese and everyone is right, it's an excellent movie and an amazing record.

[@hooleyqueen]

Additional note on Mavis Staples and the Staple Singers: They crossed over from the Black Gospel charts to the Pop charts with their big hit "Respect Yourself" in 1972. But they were not the first to cross over; the Edwin Hawkins did it with their big hit in 1969 "Oh Happy Day."

[@steveg5933]

The Last Waltz. The Band's masterpiece and swan song. They got their name when a certain Bob Dylan decided to go electric and needed a backing band. He introduced them "Ladies and Gentlemen, The Band." And it stuck. Take some time and watch the entire show the last waltz. You won't be disappointed. It was their final con art as a group and they pulled out all the stops and went out on top.

[@Devil6CR]

Great Canadian band, with an American singer drummer.

[@mackenzie98]

SO glad you did this sing. This is one of my favourite songs ever. SO GOOD!!!!

[@cindyphifer970]

There is a documentary film about them called The Last Waltz that is great, with a lot of guests. Levon Helm(R.IP.) is one of my favorites. He also played Loretta Lynn's father in the movie Coal Miner's Daughter

[@utoobia]

At the very end of the song, at 6:43, listen very closely and watch Mavis whisper “Beautiful!” She knew they nailed it.

[@abncolb1027]

Mavis Staples is one of my favorite human beings. She is still touring and recently did a song with Hozier called "Nina Cried Power" which is amazing ,❤✌

[@marlecmarine5393]

I have been listening to the Band and this song for years and there great, but l must say Mavis Staple and the Staple singers were spectacular.........:-)

[@brianmathisinmontana]

A quick reminder that we are more beautiful together than apart.

[@Droppedpocket-987]

2 days ago I listened to this song with lyrics. I have been singing along with it longer than I can remember. The wrong words. Both my husband and I thought it was "take a load on Manny." It's not. Now that we know the right name, it's very clear to hear Fanny. Great song!!

[@beverlyoyarzun3326]

I see this was posted before the world went crazy and that several folks have suggested watching the movie this clip came from. I think you would enjoy it - there’s a song with Joni Mitchell and the Band called “Coyote” that is quite nicely done

[@Movierebel3]

This is one of those songs -- and the Band had several -- that make you just happy inside. Bubbles up like a wellspring.

[@allycat9044]

Yay, Ty! Thanks to Stranger for suggesting it. Love, love, love The Band! If you have time, you should watch the concert film this is from. Not to react to, just to watch it. It’s called The Last Waltz. It’s sort of a documentary & concert film all in one. Filmed in 1976 by Martin Scorsese (yep *that* Scorsese) & features many popular musicians of the 60’s & 70’s. I’ve watched it about a million times. It never gets old.

[@dwaynegalvin8799]

Richard Manuel played the organ, Garth Hudson on piano, Rick Danko on bass,Robbie Robertson on guitar, Levon Helm on drums, The Staple Singers on soul! I still think this is one of the best songs ever written taken to another level with The Staples! First seen this in the theater when it was released! Not bad for four Canadian boys and a boy from Tennessee ( I think that's where Levon is from) They played the circuit across Canada with Ronnie Hawkins before becoming Bob Dylan's backup band and then proceeded on their own!

[@Awall79]

Robbie Robertson wrote this. He said its a parable about always feeling the need to do favors for others. The Staples specifically asked to sing this song with The Band on the Last Waltz because it was their favorite.

[@dhornjr1]

My favorite version of the song. It was already an epic song and adding The Staples Singers to it makes it something ethereal.

[@alienlife7754]

One of my favorite songs of all time. The Band is, surprisingly, not as well known as some bands from their era like the Rolling Stones or Aerosmith. But they were all excellent musicians and song writers. This song has heart. And that’s something todays music sorely lacks.

[@marymargaretmoore9034]

Love this song! That's Pops Staples and the Staple Singers! You must have heard of them? The Band was epic; even had a tuba. Multi talented band with a great old sound. btw, that's Garth Hudson on organ.

[@pimark69]

Love it. It's just a bunch of people on stage having a blast doing what they're doing and nailing it.

[@gentrysmith4924]

The lead singer/drummer Levon Helm of The Band played Lorretta Lynn's father in the movie Coal Miner's Daughter.

[@patriciab825]

Love your reaction! Such a great and beautiful song and moment in time !❤❤❤

[@slothbros7607]

This song gives me goosebumps every single time I hear it.

[@warrenjohnson8203]

The Band had a history prior to forming on their own. They backed up people like Bob Dylan. They also played at Woodstock. This was to be a clip inserted into the movie concert "The Last Watz" filmed by a young Martin Scorsese. If you liked this video then watch the concert because you will be floored by all the talent to come across the stage to play with this group.

[@samfusco8706]

You just Got to love Mavis " I'll take you there" Staples.

[@joannevincent2035]

Glad you like it! You have discovered the one and only completely transcendent anthem of the 60s - played by the band and friends as they disbanded in their last ever concert gig - now known as The Last Waltz.

[@grievousangelic]

"The Weight" is a rock classic. And this performance may be the most classic one. In the liner notes for "The Last Waltz" DVD, which is where this song comes from, Robbie Robertson (lead guitar, The Band), said he told Mavis Staples to "take it to church." She did. The Staples also sing the classic, "I'll Take You There." However, the movie "The Last Waltz" is well worth seeing on its own. Martin Scorsese directed it. Give it a look when you have some time.

[@frankparker1191]

This whole concert is on film and is fantastic! Levon Helm, Robbie Robertson, Rick Danko, Garth Hudson, and Richard Manuel. The Last Waltz was the name of the show.

[@Nik-ko9eq]

This has always been one of my favorite songs! I've never heard it live, so wonderful! 😍