Died today at the age of 71. He was cool, talented, humble – just an all-round great human being. When I listen to his vocals, I always feel like he means every single word he sings. This one has hit me really hard.
Sorry to hear it.
I’m a huge The Band fan.
Hit me hard too Chas. Gonna be an eveing of listening to The Band and all the memories from days gone by called up by the sound of his voice and the songs he sang. 
http://youtu.be/VaQDFk0fDTk
The Weight by The Band, from “The Last Waltz”
I really loved to hear Levon sing. Seemed like just a great guy, too.
His CD Ramble at the Ryman from a year or so back is well wworth hearing, btw. Levon ‘solo’ plus an array of musical buddies.
Jeez,thats sad news… we sure seem to be losing some of the greats lately 
…
I think I might just tuck meself in tonight with a few beers and a viewing of The Last Waltz ..
I loved his voice..
R.I.P mate ..
Here’s a pretty good tribute and summation;
http://www.cnn.com/2012/04/19/showbiz/obit-levon-helm/index.html?hpt=hp_c2
“You can take what you need, and leave the rest
But they should never have taken the very best.”
Levon Helm was among the best!
And I’ll think of him every time I pull into Nazareth (just up the road from here).
Feadoggie