Levon Helm losing cancer battle

Multiple Grammy-winning solo artist and former Band drummer Levon Helm is in “the final stages” of his battle with cancer, according to a statement on Helm’s official website written by his daughter Amy and wife Sandy.

The Woodstock, NY-based rock legend was diagnosed with throat cancer in the late ’90s and for a period was unable to sing. But Helm eventually recovered his voice and in 2007 released the acclaimed Grammy-winning album Dirt Farmer. However, it now appears that the drummer’s health has declined significantly.

“Dear Friends,” begins the statement, “Levon is in the final stages of his battle with cancer. Please send your prayers and love to him as he makes his way through this part of his journey.” In their message, Amy and Sandy also thank the fans who “have made his life so filled with joy and celebration…. He has loved nothing more than to play, to fill the room up with music, lay down the back beat, and make people dance! He did it every time he took the stage…”

Over the weekend, Helm’s fellow ex-Band member Robbie Robertson had sent a message of “love and prayers” to the drummer in a speech at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Cleveland.

Read more:

‘Dirt Farmer’: Review

Levon Helm: Midnight Rambler