Unveiling the Unfiltered Truth: Robbie Robertson's 'Insomnia' and the Rock 'n' Roll Life
The Rock 'n' Roll Lifestyle: A Double-Edged Sword
In his posthumously released memoir, 'Insomnia', Robbie Robertson offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the rock 'n' roll lifestyle, revealing the highs and lows of his post-Band career. The book delves into Robertson's growing relationship with Hollywood and his strained bond with Band mate Levon Helm, painting a picture of excess, drugs, and the price of fame.
The Last Waltz and the Split with Levon Helm
'Insomnia' takes readers on a journey through the years 1977 to 1980, a period marked by Robertson's deep involvement in Hollywood and his growing distance from the Band. The book chronicles his wild ride of drugs, hookups, and movie nights, often accompanied by pasta or fine dining. However, it also reveals a darker side, including a raging bull moment with wife Dominique, who asked him to leave their home and family.
The Price of Excess: Drugs and Near-Fatal Overdose
Robertson's life during this period was marked by excess, including drug runs and wild parties. He recounts a story of buying coke from a clean-cut dealer, who stripped off his shirt and pants to avoid getting powder on them. The book also reveals a near-fatal overdose of hardcore sleeping pills by Scorsese's assistant, which Robertson helped to resolve with a few lines of coke.
The Last Waltz: A Mixed Bag of Opinions
Robertson's memoir also delves into the making of 'The Last Waltz', a film that was both a critical and commercial success. However, it reveals a divided opinion among the musicians, with some happy with the results and others, like Levon Helm, less so. Robertson takes a belated shot at Helm, claiming he was unhappy with the additional soundstage footage and the interview footage with Richard Manuel.
The Rock 'n' Roll Life: A Double-Edged Sword
Robertson's life in Hollywood was marked by excess and excess, with frequent interactions with celebrities like Jack Nicholson and Warren Beatty. However, it also took a toll on his health, with Scorsese almost dying from an overdose. Robertson reflects on the experience, realizing the need to stop the rock 'n' roll lifestyle.
The Band: A Fleeting Reunion and the End of an Era
Robertson's memoir also reveals a fleeting reunion with the Band, with the musicians reconvening to cut a version of 'At Last' for the 'Raging Bull' soundtrack. However, it was a fleeting moment, as Robertson realized he no longer had much in common with his former musical mate Levon Helm. The book ends with a sense of nostalgia and a reflection on the end of an era, as the Band fades away into the twilight.
A Controversial Take: The Price of Fame
Robertson's memoir offers a controversial take on the price of fame, revealing the dark side of the rock 'n' roll lifestyle. It raises questions about the impact of excess and drugs on the lives of musicians and the price they pay for their success. It invites readers to reflect on the balance between success and personal life, and the challenges of maintaining a healthy relationship with fame and fortune.
