Recording Academy's CEO Neil Portnow Releases Statement on Levon Helm

Levon Helm, 71, drummer and singer with The Band, collaborator with Bob Dylan and solo artist, died today from throat cancer in New York. The Recording Academy's President/CEO Neil Portnow has released the following statement.

"Three-time GRAMMY winner and Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Levon Helm was an Americana and folk/rock music pioneer," Portnow said. "As a member of what would become the Band, he was an instrumental part of Bob Dylan’s shift to rock music. He was one of rock’s earliest singing drummers, and his unique voice helped bring the group’s well-crafted songs to life. His dynamic career spanned more than five decades and included solo releases and acting credits, such as playing Loretta Lynn’s father in Coal Miner’s Daughter. His passion for performing led him into the recording studio, where he opened Levon Helm Studios and produced many notable works. The music community has lost a gifted and treasured icon, and our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and fans everywhere."