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This Complete List Of Robbie Robertson Albums And Songs presents the full discography of Robbie Robertson studio albums. Robbie Robertson, the Canadian musician and songwriter, achieved iconic status as a member of the seminal roots rock group The Band. Yet, his creative journey did not come to a halt when The Band disbanded; rather, he embarked on a solo career that showcased his lyrical depth, musical versatility, and storytelling prowess. Although perhaps not as commercially successful as his time with The Band, Robertson’s solo work stands as a testament to his ever-evolving artistry and deep-seated commitment to musical exploration.
The Post-Band Era and Transition to Solo Work
After The Band’s legendary farewell concert, ‘The Last Waltz,’ in 1976, Robbie Robertson took a hiatus from performing. He shifted focus towards production work and scoring films. His collaborations with director Martin Scorsese began during this period, with Robertson contributing to the soundtracks of iconic movies like “Raging Bull” and “The King of Comedy.” This experience in the film industry allowed him to cultivate a cinematic approach to music, a quality that would become a hallmark of his solo works.
Stepping Into the Spotlight
It wasn’t until 1987 that Robertson released his self-titled debut solo album, “Robbie Robertson.” The album marked a divergence from the Americana and roots rock that characterized The Band, opting instead for a more polished, modern sound. Songs like “Somewhere Down the Crazy River” showcased Robertson’s narrative storytelling, now augmented with atmospheric production. The album received critical acclaim and even garnered a few hit singles, validating Robertson’s modern musical vision.
Exploring New Musical Horizons
His sophomore album, “Storyville,” released in 1991, took inspiration from the jazz and blues traditions of New Orleans. Although it didn’t achieve the same commercial success as his debut, “Storyville” was highly regarded for its thematic depth and intricate musicianship. Robbie Robertson continued to prove that he was an artist not confined to a singular genre or style but was instead keen on absorbing diverse musical influences.
Native Roots and Spiritual Exploration
In 1994, Robertson took his musical exploration in a different direction with the album “Music for the Native Americans,” released to coincide with a television documentary series. This album delved into his own Mohawk heritage, featuring collaborations with Native American musicians and spotlighting indigenous issues. This theme continued with his next album, “Contact from the Underworld of Redboy” (1998), which ventured even further into electronic music while maintaining the focus on Native American culture and spirituality.
Return After Hiatus and Continued Collaboration
After a hiatus of more than a decade, Robbie Robertson returned with “How to Become Clairvoyant” in 2011. The album was more introspective, exploring his past and journey as a musician. It marked a sort of full circle for Robertson, reflecting on his career, the dissolution of The Band, and his own spiritual questions. Even after all these years, the album showed that Robertson hadn’t lost his knack for poignant storytelling and sonic innovation.
ROBBIE ROBERTSON SOLO ALBUMS
Robbie Robertson
Released 1987
Robbie Robertson’s self-titled album was his debut as a solo artist after decades with The Band. A critical and commercial success, the album was a departure from The Band’s roots-oriented rock, embracing a more polished sound with heavy electronic elements. The most famous track, “Somewhere Down the Crazy River,” became a hit, further solidifying Robertson’s status as a solo artist.
The album featured Robertson on vocals and guitars, along with guests like Peter Gabriel, U2, and The BoDeans. Produced by Daniel Lanois and Robertson himself, the album was released by Geffen Records. The recording sessions took place at various studios, including The Village Recorder in Los Angeles and U2’s own studio in Dublin, from 1986 to 1987.
CD Track Listings:
- “Fallen Angel” – 5:55
- “Showdown at Big Sky” – 4:50
- “Broken Arrow” – 5:23
- “Sweet Fire of Love” – 5:17
- “American Roulette” – 4:57
- “Somewhere Down the Crazy River” – 4:57
- “Hell’s Half Acre” – 4:21
- “Sonny Got Caught in the Moonlight” – 3:52
- “Testimony” – 4:50
Storyville
Released 1991
“Storyville,” Robbie Robertson’s second solo album, was influenced by the music and culture of New Orleans. It was not as commercially successful as his debut, but it was critically well-received. The album was noted for its mixture of jazz, blues, and rock elements, all wrapped around Robertson’s lyrical storytelling.
The album featured contributions from Neil Young, Bruce Hornsby, and Aaron Neville. Produced by Stephen Hague, Robertson, and Gary Gersh, it was released by Geffen Records. The recording took place mainly at The Village Recorder in Los Angeles, from late 1990 to mid-1991.
CD Track Listings:
- “Night Parade” – 5:07
- “Hold Back the Dawn” – 5:31
- “Go Back to Your Woods” – 4:50
- “Soap Box Preacher” – 5:18
- “Day of Reckoning (Burnin for You)” – 6:43
- “What About Now” – 5:10
- “Shake This Town” – 5:22
- “Breakin the Rules” – 6:15
- “Resurrection” – 5:24
- “Sign of the Rainbow” – 5:41
Music for the Native Americans
Released 1994
“Music for the Native Americans” was a departure for Robertson, focusing on the culture and music of the indigenous people of North America. Created originally for the TV documentary series “The Native Americans,” the album is a mix of ambient sounds, traditional Native American chants, and modern musical elements.
The album features collaborations with the Red Road Ensemble, a Native American musical group. Produced by Robertson, it was released under the Capitol Records label. The recording process varied in location, as it included on-site recordings of traditional Native American music, but primarily took place in 1993.
CD Track Listings:
- “Coyote Dance” – 5:04
- “Mahk Jchi (Heartbeat Drum Song)” – 4:17
- “Ghost Dance” – 5:12
- “The Vanishing Breed” – 4:41
- “It Is a Good Day to Die” – 5:45
- “Golden Feather” – 5:24
- “Akua Tuta” – 4:52
- “Words of Fire, Deeds of Blood” – 4:52
- “Cherokee Morning Song” – 2:58
- “Skinwalker” – 5:55
Contact from the Underworld of Redboy
Released 1998
“Contact from the Underworld of Redboy” continued Robbie Robertson’s exploration of Native American themes, blending rock, electronic, and traditional Native American music. The album was well-received for its ambitious scope and its fusion of contemporary sounds with ancient themes.
The album featured collaborations with artists like Howie B and the Wabanaki Confederacy. It was produced by Robertson and released under the Capitol Records label. The recording primarily took place throughout 1997.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Sound Is Fading” – 5:06
- “The Code of Handsome Lake” – 6:10
- “Making a Noise” – 5:14
- “Unbound” – 4:37
- “Sacrifice” – 6:19
- “Rattlebone” – 4:29
- “Peyote Healing” – 6:10
- “In the Blood” – 4:32
- “Stomp Dance” – 4:49
- “The Lights” – 5:09
How to Become Clairvoyant
Released 2011
This album marked Robertson’s return to a more traditional rock setting, leaving much of the Native American thematic material behind. “How to Become Clairvoyant” delved into Robertson’s own history and experiences, particularly his time with The Band.
The album featured guest appearances from Robert Randolph, Steve Winwood, and Tom Morello. Produced by Robertson and Marius de Vries, it was released by 429 Records. Recording took place over several months in 2010.
CD Track Listings:
- “Straight Down the Line” – 5:19
- “When the Night Was Young” – 5:05
- “He Don’t Live Here No More” – 5:42
- “The Right Mistake” – 4:25
- “This Is Where I Get Off” – 5:11
- “Fear of Falling” – 6:03
- “She’s Not Mine” – 4:31
- “Madame X” – 4:47
- “Axman” – 4:36
- “Won’t Be Back” – 4:09
Sinematic
Released 2019
“Sinematic” came after an eight-year gap and was inspired by Robertson’s scoring work for Martin Scorsese’s film “The Irishman.” The album combines rock, blues, and cinematic elements and contains autobiographical material as well as stories inspired by the movie.
The album features guest artists such as Van Morrison and Glen Hansard. Produced by Robertson, it was released on UMe Records. Recording sessions took place mainly in 2018 and early 2019.
CD Track Listings:
- “I Hear You Paint Houses” – 5:03
- “Once Were Brothers” – 4:25
- “Dead End Kid” – 3:57
- “Hardwired” – 3:59
- “Walk in Beauty Way” – 5:38
- “Let Love Reign” – 5:57
- “Shanghai Blues” – 3:51
- “Wandering Souls” – 5:04
- “Street Serenade” – 5:06
- “The Shadow” – 4:29
Complete List Of Robbie Robertson Solo Albums And Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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![Rob De Luca of Spread Eagle, Sebastian Bach & UFO: 10 Albums That Changed My Life From humble East Coast origins to grandest stages worldwide, veteran bassist Rob De Luca has seen and done it all. De Luca first hit the local Boston rock and metal scene in the late 80s after meeting guitarist Paul DiBartolo, bonding over Van Halen before forming Bang. Regional success came quickly, but eventually, the members of Bang went their separate ways, with De Luca and drummer Tommi Gallo heading to NYC and hooking up with Ray West and, later, DiBartolo to form Spread Eagle. By 1990, Spread Eagle was on the fast track, with a contract through MCA Records and a self-titled debut album poised to crush skulls. But poor timing and MCA's sad indifference left Spead Eagle out in the cold despite being a hard-boiled answer to Guns N' Roses's West Coast sleaze. Spread Eagle's first chapter came to an end in '95. As for Rob De Luca, his nimble fingers and gift for melody and songwriting kept him moving forward. Soon, he found a gig with former Skid Row frontman Sebastian Bach and the legendary outfit UFO. And in 2010, after coupling up with Ray West and his cousin Rik De Luca, Spread Eagle retook flight. During a break from Spread Eagle's increasingly busy touring schedule, Rob De Luca dialed in with ClassicRockHistory.com to run through the ten albums that changed his life. But only after adding, "I made a playlist of these songs, including some I've written or co-written. Do you hear any of these albums' influence on me?" Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3LWJuhDrE8JmzhsmTeIDUq 10) Gentlemen by Afghan Whigs (1993) Here's an entry that was so important to me. This may be the darkest break-up album of all time. Greg Dulli has been in many projects, but I feel Gentlemen is his zenith. Somewhat undefinable at times but always profound and honest. Listen to "Gentlemen," "Fountain and Fairfax," and "What Jail Is Like." 9) In on the Kill Taker by Fugazi (1993) By this time, I had been sucked in and spit out by the major-label record industry. Glam came and went; grunge was history, too. I was searching for new sounds. When I heard Fugazi's twin guitar approach, I knew this was what was missing. Fugazi may be considered a less polished sound than the albums above; however, once you "get it," it hits you like a ton of bricks, and there's no going back. From the moment I heard Fugazi, I went to every NYC show after. It's easily some of the best concerts of my life, and possibly my favorite bassist in Joe Lally. And their DIY ethics refused to charge us more than $5 a show! In on the Kill Taker is a powerful album demonstrated in songs such as "Smallpox Champion," "Great Cop," and "Public Witness Program." 8) Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses (1987) I discovered many of these albums (sometimes long) after they were released. However, I was at the right place at the right time for this one. Steve Ostromogilsky had a Berklee College of Music lunch card and used to sneak out sandwiches for me. One day, he invited me to hang out at his place and listen to music. As we got off the train, he put Sony Walkman headphones on my ears and said, "Hey, check out this brand-new group." A song like "It's So Easy" was so different from the popular Sunset Strip sound at that time. Me and about 499 other informed rockers were lucky enough to see them on their first East Coast tour at the sold-out Paradise on Commonwealth Avenue, Boston (the same street Aerosmith started on). I saw Gn'R every tour after until I took a break when Buckethead joined. Gn'R is the band I've been lucky enough to see the most times live, almost 100! Everyone on this album is just stellar. Axl [Rose] had the tones, power, melodic sensibilities, and foresight to do what no other singer did then. Slash's playing was beyond memorable. Duff [McKagan] is one of the most underrated bassists in rock history, and learning his Appetite basslines is a masterclass. Steven [Adler] had the natural swing, and Izzy [Stradlin] was the secret weapon songwriter. Everything that's been heralded about this gem is deserved and true. Check out "It's So Easy," "Out Ta Get Me," and "Mr. Brownstone.' 7) Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd (1975) Another contender for my favorite album and band of all time. Using The Beatles machine (same recording studio, engineer, record label), Pink Floyd made what I feel is their strongest, most cohesive album (my second favorite of theirs would be Animals). This list mainly consists of bands with an instantly recognizable sound. Floyd is certainly no exception to that! This album included a solid handful of undeniable rock radio classics, bookended by two halves of the mind-blowing song "Shine on You Crazy Diamond.' That song was written about former band member and founder Syd Barrett. It would be hard to live in a world without this album. Check out "Welcome to The Machine," "Shine on You Crazy Diamond (parts 6-9),' or even better yet, listen to the whole thing in one sitting! 6) Decade by Neil Young (1977) About this time, I started playing guitar. As a beginner, it was comfortable jamming to this album because the chord changes were simple—a great "first ten years" retrospective of Neil's stunning, unique songwriting. Neil is a treasure who always writes from the heart and stands up for what's right. Check out "Southern Man," "A Man Needs a Maid," "Down by The River," and "After the Goldrush." 5) Highway to Hell by AC/DC (1979) When I heard this album, I was firmly "me." My life would be 100% focused on hard rock music forever. AC/DC are like air; they're ubiquitous. Everyone knows them and their incredible songs. However, as a young teen in Wilmington, Delaware, I only had WMMR 93.3 FM Philadelphia and a few friends to inform me about the world of Rock outside my bedroom. AC/DC had not gone mainstream, and their albums were available primarily in the USA as imports. To put things more in perspective, I only knew two people in the world who had heard of AC/DC. A friend had an import that we played in Steve Buckley's basement, which sounded ripping. When Highway to Hell was released, WMMR started spinning the title track, and I immediately bought the album, listening to it every single day after school. Then WMMR announced AC/DC was coming to the Spectrum in Philly, supporting Ted Nugent! I liked Ted but loved AC/DC, so my good friend Mick Cummins and I bought tickets, and he drove us up to the Spectrum (where we saw most of our concerts). Bon Scott was in fine form, and the band went over great. Although the crowd knew Ted better, Angus [Young] wouldn't let anyone upstage him. I'll never forget it! Unfortunately, Bon would be gone in 6 months. Check out "Walk All Over You," "Touch Too Much," "Shot Down in Flames," and "If You Want Blood (You Got It)." 4) Toys in the Attic by Aerosmith (1975) By the time I heard this, I was now in my teens. I had a childhood friend up the street, Jim Linberg (we're still good buddies). His older sister had a great album collection, including Toys in The Attic. Once I heard that groove, my taste changed. I lost interest in rock music that didn't have some sort of "swing" feel to it. I think Rocks is a slightly better Aerosmith album (and possibly my favorite album of all time), but both are perfect or very close. Check out "Uncle Salty," "Adam's Apple," "No More No More," "Round and Round," and "You See Me Crying." 3) Alive! by Kiss (1975) When I was still a little kid, I asked for Cheech and Chong's Up in Smoke album for Christmas. The entire family came over for an enormous feast, and I dropped the needle. When my mother heard the content, she turned off the album and said I had to exchange it. My mom was cool, but I was young and knew much more about life than she suspected. Anyway, the next day, she drove me back to the store. In the music section, promoted on an "endcap" was a Kiss Alive! display. I had never heard of Kiss, but that cover picture told me I had to have it! My first foray into hard rock. Check out “Strutter.” I went through my Kiss phase very quickly, I believe in a matter of months because I discovered the previous entry, Aerosmith's Toys in the Attic. 2) Honky Chateau by Elton John (1972) When I was a wee lad, my parents bought a used Volkswagen camper van from my uncle Ozzie. My favorite Elton John album is Yellow Brick Road, but Honky Chateau is great and easily one of his best. It sent me down a lifelong rabbit hole of loving everything about the 1970s partnership between Elton and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The simple beauty of voice, the master songwriting, the perfect backing band, the clear, unobtrusive recordings, and always Bernie's incredible lyrics. The day this album was released, Elton became an unstoppable force that conquered the music industry. Check out "Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters" and "Rocket Man." 1) Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles (1967) Another tape that was included in the VW Camper. The van had a bunch of music tapes, and one was Sgt Pepper. I was too young to understand the sophistication of the music, but that was one of the many skills of The Beatles. They attracted listeners at every level, even little kids. I still feel that immediate connection to Sgt Pepper; now, I hear so much more. It's an album that changed the world and the world of music. Check out "Lucy in The Sky with Diamonds," "A Day In The Life," and "Fixing a Hole."](http://www.classicrockhistory.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Shutterstock_1815495569-1-300x200.jpg)
