Richard Manuel : His Life and Music, from the Hawks and Bob Dylan to The Band

For the first time—in an official biography endorsed by his family—the Band's legendary Richard Manuel’s compositions and performances are analyzed with expert commentary while shining a light on his contributions to all of his bands—and on the undeniable impact he had on rock music. Richard Manuel was a fearless original. Sweetly soulful as a vocalist and endearingly creative as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, he was a vital part of some of rock ’n’ roll’s pivotal moments, including Bob Dylan’s controversial move to electric music, Woodstock 1969, and the legendary Last Waltz. Through thoughtful research and analysis, this book places Manuel’s troubled yet inspired spirit within a musical and historical context. For the first time, Manuel’s compositions and performances are critiqued with expert commentary—alongside new interviews with family, friends, and fellow musicians, including Eric Clapton and Van Morrison. The story traces Manuel’s journey from Stratford, Ontario, to Woodstock, New York, and beyond, beginning with his first band, the Revols, then singing the blues with Robbie Robertson, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, and Garth Hudson in the Hawks, the group that would later become the Band. Manuel’s influence was profound, his distinctive vocals infusing songs with emotion and depth.

His songwriting flourished in classics like “Tears of Rage,” cowritten with Dylan, and “We Can Talk.” His keyboard work added a lovable funkiness to the Band’s sound, blending elements of rock, folk, country, and blues into what would become the genesis of Americana. Despite the Band’s successes, Manuel struggled with personal demons, battling addiction and inner turmoil.

Looking beyond his human frailty, this book celebrates Richard Manuel’s immeasurable contributions to music, ensuring that memories of his voice and artistry endure.