Backstage The Band were a mix of emotions. Robertson recalls an “anxious but ready” Scorsese, and that each member of the Band was calm and collected.

At around nine the The Berkeley Promenade Orchestra left stage and the house lights slowly dimmed. A large curtain of shimmering confetti lit from all sides was let down in front of the stage, chandeliers were then lowered to a position above the stage, increasing in glow as they descended.

Suddenly, in the darkness, a spotlight erupted on Levon Helm, who kicked things off at 9:07. "Good evening..."

Produced, hosted and edited by Tyrell William Lisson. Additional writing and research by Oscar Ashley.

The Band: A History is part of Pantheon Podcasts. Listen to The Band: A History and a variety of other great podcasts over on Pantheon.

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