Classic Rock

Great Unknown Songs #3 – The Band “Stage Fright”

Published on 09/18/2017

The Band was a canadian-american roots rock group formed in Toronto, Ontario in 1968 by Rick Danko (bass guitar, vocals), Garth Hudson (keyboards, saxophone), Richard Manuel (keyboards, vocals), Robbie Robertson (guitar), and Levon Helm (drums, vocals).

One of the most influential canadian rock bands of all time, The Band, inspired thousands of musicians across the world with their music. But, some of their greatest tunes are forgotten these days. One them is “Stage Fright, the title track of the Band’s third album. It features Rick Danko on lead vocals and was written by Robbie Robertson.

“Stage Fright” by The Band

Stage Fright (1970)

According to author Barney Hoskyns, Robertson originally intended it to be sung by Richard Manuel but it became clear that the song was better suited to Danko’s “nervous, tremulous voice.”

The Band drummer Levon Helm has written that the song is about “the terror of performing.” Others believe that the lyrics refer to Bob Dylan, who had stopped touring live during the late 1960s.

Related Topics:best unknown songs, CLASSIC ROCK, Featured, levon helm, the band

Rafael Polcaro

I'm a Brazilian journalist who always loved Classic Rock and Heavy Metal music. That passion inspired me to create Rock and Roll Garage over 6 years ago. Music has always been a part of my life, helping me through tough times and being a support to celebrate the good ones. When I became a journalist, I knew I wanted to write about my passions. After graduating in journalism from the Pontifical Catholic University of Minas Gerais, I pursued a postgraduate degree in digital communication at the same institution. The studies and experience in the field helped me improve the website and always bring the best of classic rock to the world! MTB: 0021377/MG