Grammys 2013: Elton John performs with Mumford and Sons at the Grammys

It is not hyperbole to state The Band forever changed rock music for the better.

Before “Music From Big Pink,” in 1968, it was believed if you wanted to be a rock band, you had to be the Beatles (Hence the Monkees), if you wanted to be a country singer you had to be like Hank Williams, if you wanted to be a folk singer, you had to be like Joan Baez.

And you recorded in a sterile studio.

And you had to decide exactly which way you wanted to go. Hard rock, rock, popular rock, country, jazz, R&B, blues or folk. 

No mixing allowed.

The Band came along and said; Eff that ess right in the bee. How about we just make great music? How about if we party together, live in one place and record in the guest house?  Electric and acoustic together? Bring it. How about we have collaborators? How about jam sessions? Horns and strings? Accompany.

Before Levon Helm (Elton John/Bernie Taupin loved him so much he named their song “Levon” after him) how many drummers sang lead, ala Don Henley? You got it. None. Well, Ringo a little, I guess.

This is how Led Zeppelin recorded at Headly Grange. The Stones in France on “Exile On Main Street”  Eric, Duane and the boys on “Layla and other Assorted Love Songs.” Neil Young’s “Harvest.” Crosby, Stills and Nash. It do go on and on and on.

Four part harmonies? Sure. Guitar solos? Do two at a time. Improvise? Why not? Blues, country, gospel, rock not only on the same album, how about on the same song? I’m trying to tell you.

Can I get an amen one time?