Americana Highways brings you this premiere of Seattle based musician Norman Baker’s song “Levon, the Singing Drummer” that is set to be included on his album slated to be released later this year. Baker’s upcoming record was produced by Jim Roth of the Seattle rock band Built to Spill and features his backing band The Backroads.
The idea for “Levon, the Singing Drummer” had been floating around in Baker’s mind for years, but it wasn’t until last spring during some time off from his SW Tour that he was able to bring the song to life. The song serves as a tribute to several artists that have influenced Baker including Lowell George of the band Little Feat, Ray LaMontagne, and Levon Helm of the Band. Baker’s upcoming record will feature ten original songs including “Levon, The Singing Drummer” and a cover of Marvin Gaye’s deep cut “I’ll Be Doggone.” As a tribute to mastery, this song is worthy of attention. Norman Baker crafts songs in the style of the best in storytelling music, and this album is no exception.
The video and audio were captured by Justin Mora in a space that was once a bar at Feather River Hot Springs in Twain, California while Baker was on tour there last summer.
I was in New Braunfels, Texas working on tunes in the backyard at my friend’s permaculture farm, and put it all together right there. Aside from the fact that the idea and inspiration for the song had been there for a long time, it actually came together pretty quickly that afternoon.
You can stream Norman Baker & The Backroads’ 2015 album Present Day wherever you stream your digital music.