Concertwire.com

Musician, singer, author, voiceover artist and actor Levon Helm is an American treasure. Born in 1940 in Elaine, Arkansas, a young Levon absorbed the blues, folk and country sounds that surrounded him. Gigs with Ronnie Hawkins lead to Levon\'s entrance into The Band, one of rock\'s greatest groups. The Band went on to back Bob Dylan on his first electric tour and made a series of incredible records until 1976. Helm’s latest CD, Dirt Farmer, won the 2007 Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album. On Dirt Farmer, his first solo studio album in 25 years, Helm pays tribute to his family, singing traditional songs he learned growing up in rural Arkansas. Full of Dobros, mandolins and acoustic guitars, the album resonates deeply, honoring Levon\'s roots. After arduous treatments for throat cancer that took away his singing voice and a fire that consumed over 80 percent of his recording studio, Helm was amazed to find both restored. Dirt Farmer is a triumph for Levon Helm and a gift to listeners.