Best Performances from The Last Waltz Concert of The Band & Friends
The Band held a "farewell concert" on November 25, 1976, after years of touring and recording. They were joined by several prominent artists, most of whom they had worked with during their career. The concert was released as an album in 1978, as well as a documentary film by Martin Scorsese.While it was intended as The Band's final performance - which, I believe, it was with all five members, as I don't think Robbie Robertson ever appeared with them again - the other four members did reunite at various points and venues. This continued until Richard Manuel's suicide, after which they occasionally performed with additional musicians in various combinations.
Still, this magnificent presentation, with such key and solid contributions from others, ranks among the best live "rock or popular" joint music concerts of all time. Ranking is entirely subjective, with consideration for lead artist performance in conjunction with the featured group.
It really says something when the top ten has to omit Muddy Waters, Neil Diamond, and other great songs.
This one was a really solid performance.
One of the best moments of the film, in my opinion, is when Clapton's guitar strap comes off. He yells out to Robbie, and Robbie takes the solo without missing a beat.
I'm not a big fan of this one because they didn't put enough emphasis on Richard Manuel and his voice. He doesn't even get a close-up shot.
Among the backup performers are Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Ronnie Hawkins, Dr. John, Neil Diamond, Van Morrison, Eric Clapton, Paul Butterfield, Bobby Charles, Ringo Starr, and Ronnie Wood.
Joni owned it. The song, the delivery, her pitch, and intonation were all perfect.
I love this song and this performance, but since the recording isn't live from the concert itself, I can't rank it as high among the others.
This is the best version I've ever heard.
The Newcomers
Richard Manuel killed it!