Remembering Robbie Robertson: Legendary Guitarist and Songwriter

The music industry mourns the loss of Robbie Robertson, the iconic founding guitarist for The Band, who passed away on Wednesday at the age of 80. Robertson was not only a talented musician but also a prolific songwriter, penning many of The Band’s most famous songs including “The Weight,” “Up on Cripple Creek,” and “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.” His contributions to both the music and film worlds were immense, leaving a lasting impact on countless fans, friends, and peers.

Collaboration with Martin Scorsese

One of Robertson’s closest friends and collaborators was acclaimed filmmaker Martin Scorsese. Their partnership began with the seminal 1978 concert documentary “The Last Waltz,” which captured The Band’s farewell performance. Scorsese and Robertson continued to work together on various projects over the years, with Robertson contributing to the music for 14 of Scorsese’s films. Their collaborations included acclaimed movies such as “Raging Bull,” “Casino,” “Gangs of New York,” “The King of Comedy,” “The Wolf of Wall Street,” and “The Irishman,” as well as the forthcoming film “Killers of the Flower Moon.”

In a heartfelt statement, Scorsese expressed the deep impact Robertson had on his life and work, describing him as a confidante, collaborator, and advisor. He praised Robertson’s music as a powerful reflection of the traditions, tragedies, and joys at the heart of the North American continent.

Scorsese’s statement read, “Robbie Robertson was one of my closest friends, a constant in my life and my work. I could always go to him as a confidante. A collaborator. An advisor. I tried to be the same for him. Long before we ever met, his music played a central role in my life – me and millions and millions of other people all over this world. The Band’s music, and Robbie’s own later solo music, seemed to come from the deepest place at the heart of this continent, its traditions and tragedies and joys. It goes without saying that he was a giant, that his effect on the art form was profound and lasting. There’s never enough time with anyone you love. And I loved Robbie.”

Awards and Legacy

Robertson’s immense talent and contributions to the music industry earned him accolades and recognition throughout his career. He received five Grammy nominations, including nods for his work on the soundtracks of “Gangs of New York” in 2004 and “The Wolf of Wall Street” in 2015. He also received two Emmy nominations in 1995 for his music documentary “Robbie Robertson: Going Home.”

While Robertson never received an Academy Award nomination during his lifetime, there is speculation that his collaboration with Scorsese on the score for “Killers of the Flower Moon” may earn him a posthumous nomination. The film, set for release on October 6, features all-original music composed by Robertson.

A Musical Journey

Born Jaime Royal Robertson in Toronto, Canada on July 5, 1943, Robertson had diverse roots in both the Mohawk community at the Six Nations Reserve and the Jewish enclave of downtown Toronto. He began playing the guitar at the age of 10 and joined Ronnie Hawkins’ backing band, the Hawks, at 16. With his unique guitar style, Robertson became influential in the rockabilly scene and played alongside Bob Dylan on his electric tours in the mid-1960s.

In 1967, Robertson and his bandmates moved to Woodstock and recorded the famous “basement tapes” with Dylan. They then formed The Band and released their groundbreaking album “Music from Big Pink” in 1968, which featured the classic Robertson-penned song “The Weight.” The Band was later inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.

The passing of Robertson leaves Garth Hudson as the sole surviving member of the original quintet.

Tributes and Condolences

Following the news of Robertson’s death, numerous tributes poured in from friends, musicians, and fans across the world.

Actor and musician Kiefer Sutherland wrote on social media, “Canada has lost an icon, and music has lost a poet and a scholar. Rest in peace, Robbie Robertson.”

Singer-songwriter Neil Diamond expressed his condolences, saying, “The music world has lost a great one. Keep making that Beautiful Noise in the sky, Robbie. I’ll miss you.”

Canadian rock musician Bryan Adams also shared his memories of Robertson, stating, “RIP Robbie Robertson. Thanks for the amazing music and the great hangs, especially photographing you in L.A. not so long ago.”

Filmmaker Rob Reiner described Robertson’s music as timeless, noting its profound impact.

Musician Stephen Stills praised Robertson’s kindness and generosity, while entertainment magnate David Geffen hailed him as a musical genius whose influence will continue to be felt for generations.

Stevie Van Zandt, guitarist of the E Street Band and known for his role in “The Sopranos,” referred to Robertson as a good friend and a genius, emphasizing the significance of The Band’s music in shaping the rock scene of the ’60s.

As the music world mourns the loss of Robbie Robertson, his legacy as a talented guitarist, songwriter, and collaborator will forever be cherished.

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