VIDEO: Robbie Robertson Plays ‘The Weight’ With a Little Help From His Friend Ringo Starr

Recorded as part of the Playing for Change project, the song also features recent Stern Show performer Lukas Nelson

September 20, 2019

The Band’s Robbie Robertson has released a new version of one his greatest-known hits, “The Weight.”

Part of a philanthropic endeavor called Playing for Change, Robbie Robertson’s new video actually opens with Beatle great and beloved Stern Show guest Ringo Starr. “What key is it in, Robbie?” Ringo asks before deciding, “F-demented!” From there, Robertson breaks into the iconic guitar intro of the Band’s 1969 classic.

Playing for Change is described as “a movement created to inspire and connect the world through music.” This rendition of “The Weight” took two years to complete and utilizes a string of dazzling musicians across the globe, from Los Angeles to the Congo.

In addition to Robertson and Ringo, the song also features southern rocker Marcus King, Japanese guitarist Char, the sister-fronted rock band Larkin Poe, and none other than Lukas Nelson, who was just in Howard’s studio with his band Promise of the Real to cover Crosby, Stills, and Nash’s “Carry On.” Check it out (below).

Learn about Playing for Change and watch more videos at their official website.

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