Levon Helm

[Gaddabout]

Some drummers elevate themselves and their bandmates just by having a strong emotional (or even spiritual) connection to the music they identify with and play. I think that defines Levon. I think it's a praise that's overused but totally fits here: Understood the music and was always spot on and tasteful. Also, I think "swunky" folk/country grooves are deceptively challenging to play with conviction and authenticity (and not sound contrived or cliche), and Levon was probably the master of them.