The Band

The Band - Rockin' Chair Performance at Festival Express, McMahon Stadium

McMahon Stadium
Calgary, Canada

• In July 1970, The Band was riding high on the success of their second studio album, "Stage Fright," which had been released earlier that same year. Th... Read Full Description >

  In July 1970, The Band was riding high on the success of their second studio album, "Stage Fright," which had been released earlier that same year. This live performance of "Rockin' Chair" at the Festival Express showcases the group's distinctive blend of rock, folk, and Americana, a hallmark of their style. The Festival Express was a unique traveling concert series that featured several prominent artists and provided a notable platform for The Band during a pivotal moment in their career. Interestingly, the train tour also allowed the members to bond and collaborate with other musicians, fostering a sense of camaraderie that was reflected in their live performances. "Rockin' Chair" itself is a reflective song that encapsulates themes of nostalgia and introspection, resonating with the audience during this era of dynamic musical exploration.

The Band Performs 'Long Black Veil' at Festival Express in Calgary

McMahon Stadium
Calgary, Canada

• In July 1970, during the Festival Express train tour, The Band performed "Long Black Veil" at McMahon Stadium in Calgary. At this point in their caree... Read Full Description >

  In July 1970, during the Festival Express train tour, The Band performed "Long Black Veil" at McMahon Stadium in Calgary. At this point in their career, The Band had already gained significant acclaim with the release of their self-titled album in 1969, which featured classics like "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek." The Band was on the rise, solidifying their reputation as a leading force in rock music, known for their blend of rock, folk, and Americana. The live recording from the Festival Express captures the vibrant energy and camaraderie of the musicians during a unique tour that involved traveling across Canada by train, playing alongside other notable artists like Janis Joplin and The Grateful Dead. This performance marked a moment of peak collaboration and creativity for the band, showcasing their ability to engage audiences with powerful live interpretations of their music.

The Band Live at The Syria Mosque: Time to Kill, The Weight, Full Concert

The Syria Mosque
Pittsburgh, PA, United States

• In November 1970, The Band was on the cusp of their ascent in the rock music landscape following the release of their critically acclaimed album, "Sta... Read Full Description >

  In November 1970, The Band was on the cusp of their ascent in the rock music landscape following the release of their critically acclaimed album, "Stage Fright," which came out just a month prior. This live performance at The Syria Mosque showcases their unique blend of rock, folk, and Americana, with songs that would later become classics, including "The Weight" and "Up on Cripple Creek." At this point in their career, The Band had already established a reputation for their intimate yet powerful live shows, as evidenced by their backing role for Bob Dylan during his 1965-1966 tours. The concert footage reveals their dynamic stage presence and tight musicianship, illustrating why they earned the respect of contemporaries and fans alike. Interestingly, the choice of songs performed reflects a balance between their earlier work and newer material, encapsulating their evolving artistry during a transformative period in music history.

The Band - This Wheel's On Fire (Live) at Syria Mosque, Pittsburgh

Syria Mosque
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

• On November 1, 1970, The Band performed live at the Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh, shortly after the release of their critically acclaimed second album, ... Read Full Description >

  On November 1, 1970, The Band performed live at the Syria Mosque in Pittsburgh, shortly after the release of their critically acclaimed second album, "Stage Fright," which came out in August 1970. This album marked a significant moment in their career as it showcased their distinctive blend of rock, folk, and Americana, solidifying their reputation as a leading act in the roots rock movement. Live performances during this period, such as the one captured in the video for "This Wheel's On Fire," reflected the band's evolving sound and their knack for blending original material with their remarkable musicianship. Interestingly, "Stage Fright" was the first album that featured their new member, pianist and vocalist Richard Manuel more prominently, alongside the original lineup, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that became a hallmark of their live shows. The iconic venue and the time of the performance contributed to the raw energy that The Band was known for during this era.