The Band formed in 1968 out of the group that backed Ronnie Hawkins and then Bob Dylan, and more or less drew the blueprint for Americana and roots rock. Music from Big Pink (1968) and The Band (1969) are foundational — three lead singers, songs steeped in American history — and The Last Waltz filmed the 1976 farewell. Find The Band vinyl, CDs, and reissues at Wax Trax Records.
The Band formed in 1968, evolving from the group that had backed rockabilly singer Ronnie Hawkins and then Bob Dylan during his mid-1960s electric period. The classic lineup was Robbie Robertson (born 1943, died 2023), Levon Helm (the lone American member, born 1940, died 2012), Rick Danko (1943-1999), Richard Manuel (1943-1986), and Garth Hudson (1937-2025). Their roots in Dylan's circle and their move to the Woodstock, New York area shaped a sound that drew deeply on American musical traditions.
The Band is widely credited as a foundational roots rock and Americana act, blending rock, country, folk, blues, R&B, and gospel. Their music featured shared lead vocals among Helm, Danko, and Manuel, intricate ensemble arrangements, and storytelling lyrics rooted in American history and rural life. Their influence on subsequent Americana and roots music is extensively documented.
Music from Big Pink and The Band have been reissued repeatedly, including 50th anniversary editions with new mixes and bonus material. The Last Waltz has appeared in expanded box-set configurations. Original Capitol pressings of the first two albums are sought-after.
Listeners new to The Band usually start with Music from Big Pink (1968) or The Band (1969). For related listening, see and .
