Robbie Robertson Discusses Writing The Band’s ‘The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down’

Robbie Robertson was recently interviewed by John Fugelsang during a visit to SiriusXM. Robertson spoke about the meaning behind The Band’s classic song, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down.”

One of several highlights on The Band’s 1969 self-titled sophomore album, “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” was sung by drummer Levon Helm. Robertson recounts visiting Helm’s father Jasper Diamond Helm in rural Arkansas, which later helped inform the subject matter of the song. The guitarist also explains how his ignorance of racism and segregation in the southern United States prior to experiencing it in person further influenced the lyrics.

The Band’s performance of “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” at the The Last Waltz in 1976 was the final live rendition played by Helm. Listen to Robertson’s interview on SiriusXM below:

Robertson previously explained the genesis of “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down” for VH1’s Classic Albums series. Watch that clip here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VusxYu9Uycs