Paul Sexton's Live Archive #2: Celebrating Robbie Robertson

The second in our exclusive series, in which the music journalist, broadcaster and bestselling author invites you into his personal archive of conversations with some of the world’s greatest artists. This time we feature a vintage interview with the late and great Canadian singer, writer and producer Robbie Robertson, who died in 2023 at the age of 80.

Paul Sexton's Live Archive events are based on interviews he's conducted over many decades – often never previously heard – and on live interpretations from the featured star's songbook, by our host’s favourite performers on the scene today. We began the series with a memorable night in May celebrating Bonnie Raitt. 

As part of the series, every ticket holder is presented with a printed transcript of interview highlights and a personal introduction written by Paul. First-time Live Archive attendees also receive a branded Kraft archive envelope in which to keep and collect them. These will build into a permanent record of each event to ensure that the stories shared and our time together are never forgotten. 

In 2011, as Robbie Robertson was about to release his 'How To Become Clairvoyant' album, Paul flew to Robbie's Los Angeles studio to write about him for the Sunday Times. It was a fascinating conversation, touching on Robertson's musical upbringing, his early days as a member of Ronnie Hawkins' band the Hawks, and the formation of The Band, firstly as collaborators of Bob Dylan and then as the creators of the revolutionary sound we now call Americana. You'll also hear Robbie discuss why he left The Band and the evolution of his solo career, his latter-day approach to music-making, his enduring friendship with Eric Clapton and even what he thought of Taylor Swift!

And of course that's not all! It wouldn't be the Live Archive without some unique performances, on stage during the evening, by modern-day admirers of our featured artist. We're delighted that among those joining us to interpret Robertson's work, both in The Band and solo, will be our very own Danny George Wilson, his frequent collaborator in both Danny and the Champions of the World and Bennett Wilson Poole, Robin Bennett and London-based singer-songwriter Mick Terry. We're also delighted to add a specially-filmed video performance by the fast-rising Ella Spencer, who made her Sound Lounge debut in June. Don't miss this one-night-only tribute to an incredible and enduring talent.