Laurelyn Dossett
listen now children a story I’ll tell …

“Ain’t In It For My Health: A Film About Levon Helm”
5 pm, Thursday Jan. 6 at Elon University
McEwen Building Room 011

I heard about the film a while back when Levon’s folks called to ask about using “Anna Lee” in the soundtrack. Since then I’ve been watching Google alerts for any mention of the film and its premiers last year at SXSW, LA Film Festival, and the Copenhagen International Film Festival.

Finally, Thursday night, I’ll get to see the real McCoy, which chronicles Levon’s somewhat reluctant return to the spotlight since releasing the Grammy Winning albums “Dirt Farmer” and “Electric Dirt.” And, according to the film’s Web site, this growing popularity has pulled up some old grief for Levon: the break up of The Band, bankruptcy, and throat cancer.

The film isn’t yet in commercial release, so if you’re a Levon fan, a music fan, or a fan of great film, come on out.

“If you pour some music on whatever’s wrong, it’ll sure help out.” – Levon Helm

I love a music video with a John Deere tractor. Now those are some rims. Check out the official music video and part-mini documentary for Levon’s “Poor Old Dirt Farmer.”

If you’re near New York in March, I’m getting ready to perform at Levon’s Midnight Ramble and stopping in Manhattan along the way for a gig at The Living Room/Googie’s Lounge.

7:30 pm March 13 at Googie’s Lounge
8 pm March 14 at The Midnight Ramble
Click show dates for information and tickets