Ain't in It for My Health: A Film About Levon Helm

Levon Helm was in the middle of an intensively creative period in the years just before his death. In addition to establishing the Midnight Ramble concert series as a must-see music experience, Helm’s “Dirt Farmer” earned the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in February of 2008, and in November of that same year, Rolling Stone magazine ranked him among The 100 Greatest Singers of All Time. In 2010, his follow up “Electric Dirt” won the first ever Grammy Award for Best Americana Album. In 2011, his live album Ramble at the Ryman was nominated for the Grammy in the same category — and also won. Director Jacob Hatley’s intimate documentary finds Mr. Helm at home in Woodstock, NY, in the midst of creating his first studio album in 25 years. Shot over the course of two-plus years, this highly anticipated film focuses on the former lead singer and drummer of “The Band,” four-time Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member after his “Dirt Farmer” comeback album ushered him back into the spotlight. While this period was artistically productive, AIN’T IN IT FOR MY HEALTH: A Film About Levon Helm also shows Helm dealing with the burdens of renewed celebrity, continuing financial obligation and returning health problems. The man known worldwide for his soulful voice, as well as his singular and unparalleled drumming and multi-instrumental skills, permitted a camera crew inside his home to show the world an intimate side of his art and life. Of the film, longtime Helm collaborator and musical director Larry Campbell says, “Jacob was the perfect fly on the wall for many months as we experienced the ups and downs of a wonderful time in all our lives.” The result is a rare, artful and honest glimpse into the fascinating world of one of our true American treasures, Levon Helm.