Levon Helm

Date of Birth: May 26, 1940

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Date of Death: April 19, 2012

Biography

Mark Lavon “Levon” Helm was an American musician and actor, best known as the drummer and one of the vocalists for the rock group The Band. Born in Elaine, Arkansas, Helm grew up in a musical family and was exposed to a diverse array of musical genres from a young age, including country, blues, and rockabilly. He joined The Hawks, the backing band for rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins, which eventually evolved into The Band. The Band gained fame for their collaborative songwriting and innovative sound, blending rock, folk, and Americana influences. Helm’s distinctive drumming style and soulful voice were integral to the group’s success. Some of their most famous songs include “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” After The Band disbanded in 1976, Helm pursued a solo career and also acted in several films, including a memorable role in “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” Despite facing health challenges, including a battle with throat cancer, Helm continued to perform and record music, earning multiple Grammy Awards for his later solo albums.

5 Interesting Facts about Levon Helm

1. Levon Helm was the only American member of The Band; the other members were all Canadian.

2. He won three Grammy Awards in the later stages of his career, two for Best Americana Album and one for Best Traditional Folk Album.

3. Helm’s memoir, “This Wheel’s on Fire,” provides an in-depth look at his life and career with The Band.

4. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Band in 1994.

5. Helm hosted the “Midnight Ramble” concerts at his home in Woodstock, New York, which drew numerous famous musicians and fans.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Levon Helm

1. “If you pour some music on whatever’s wrong, it’ll sure help out.”

2. “A good song is a good song, and it should be able to stand on its own.”

3. “You can’t live in the past, but the past is a good place to learn.”

4. “Music is a healing thing, and it’s meant to be played and enjoyed.”

5. “There’s a lot of great musicians in this world. I’m just glad to be one of them.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Levon Helm’s net worth was estimated to be around $12 million.

Children

Levon Helm had one daughter, Amy Helm, who is also a musician. She has performed both as a solo artist and as a member of the alternative country group Ollabelle.