My kids got me a copy of Robbie Robertson's autobiography for Chanukah, and I just finished reading it. It was a rather enjoyable read, and I recommend the book. I know there is little to no love for Robbie on this site, but The Band were THE supergroup and their powerhouse performances were exceptional. The book chronicles the beginning and ends at the Last Waltz, probably the greatest concert film (after Woodstock) that has ever been. It's nice to read about the behind-the-scenes stuff. I read all the auto and biographies of my rock and roll idols and have read Levon's book (along with books by Gregg, Bruce, Patti, Keith, etc) and enjoy most of them. This one was well done and tho he name-drops tons of folks, it's still worth the time. Anyone else read it?
I did thought it was a great read.How there name came about and his friendship with Bob Dylan very cool. A lot of misconception has been said about Robbie and how he screwed the others members of the band.For you nasayers all I can say is read the book Robbie did everything he could to keep them engaged in the music and the business but they had other ideas.
I just picked up "Testimony" this week at my local library. For the record, I'm a big fan of Robbie Robertson and own two of his solo albums. His most recent and the one he recorded in the early 90's which features a number of Native American musicians called "Music for the Native People." I love them both and highly recommend his most recent, "How To Become Clairvoyant."
I'm now into chapter six and am really enjoying it thus far. I've read a number of autobiography's by musicians of late and hands down Robbie's is so far anyway easily the best written in terms of technical writing and coherent storytelling.
What I've taken away thus far is how much Robbie and Levon connected in the early years with the Hawks and how much Robbie is truly grateful for the things Levon taught him early on. About music, life, the business, etc. as well as friendship, love, and being a sort of big brother to Robbie.
I wasn't surprised at any of this as I've heard Robbie mention these things in interviews over the years despite the conflict that arose due mostly to business and publishing issues. It's quite easy to believe that Robbie is very, very grateful to Levon for everything he gave him.
