What was Levon Helm's net worth?
Levon Helm was an American musician and actor who had a net worth of $12 million.
Levon Helm was a pioneering American musician, drummer, and singer best known as the drummer and vocalist for The Band. From 1957 until his death in 2012, Helm's distinctive voice and rhythmic drumming style helped define Americana music. Rising to prominence as Bob Dylan's backing band, The Band went on to become one of rock music's most influential groups. As a solo artist, Helm released six studio albums. He was named one of Rolling Stone magazine's 100 Greatest Singers of All Time and won three Grammy Awards for his solo work. As an actor, Helm starred in the movies "Coal Miner's Daughter," "The Right Stuff," and "Shooter." Levon Helm died on April 19, 2012, at the age of 71 from cancer. His authentic vocals, masterful drumming, and dedication to American roots music established him as one of rock's most respected artists.
Early Years
Born in Arkansas in 1940, Helm grew up immersed in Delta blues, country music, and rock 'n' roll. He began playing drums at age eight and joined Ronnie Hawkins' Hawks as a teenager, relocating to Canada where he met his future bandmates.
The Band Era (1964-1976)
The Band formed in Toronto, Canada, in 1968 and broke up in 1977 before re-forming from 1983 to 1999. After backing Bob Dylan during his controversial electric transition, The Hawks evolved into The Band. Their debut studio album, "Music from Big Pink," was released in 1968. The Band's second self-titled album was released in 1969 and was certified Platinum in the US where it reached #9 and also reached #2 in Canada. The Band released 10 studio albums and two more with Bob Dylan, including "Planet Waves" in 1974, which reached #1 in the US and Canada.
Levon and The Band bandmate Robbie Robertson had a falling out later in life after Robbie maintained full songwriting credit for most of their most popular songs. Levon felt the songs were collaborative works and that songwriting should have been shared. By receiving full credit, Robbie received the lion's share of The Band's royalties.
Helm's vocals led many of their signature songs, including "The Weight," "Up on Cripple Creek," and "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down." The Band's final concert was immortalized in Martin Scorsese's "The Last Waltz."
Upon Robbie Robertson's death in 2023, Garth Hudson became the last surviving member of The Band. He died in January 2025.

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Solo Career and Later Years
Post-Band, Helm released multiple solo albums and regularly hosted Midnight Ramble concerts at his Woodstock studio. His 2007 comeback album "Dirt Farmer" won a Grammy, followed by two more Grammy wins for "Electric Dirt" (2009) and "Ramble at the Ryman" (2011).
Musical Style and Legacy
Helm pioneered singing while drumming in rock music, bringing Arkansas roots music traditions to a global audience. His ability to tell stories through song, combined with his innovative drumming technique, influenced generations of musicians. The Recording Academy honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award, and Rolling Stone ranked him among history's greatest drummers.
Helm died of throat cancer in 2012, leaving a legacy as a guardian of American musical traditions and an architect of roots-rock. His influence continues through the Midnight Ramble legacy and his impact on Americana music.