The song “Fallen Angel” was written and released by Robbie Robertson in 1987 as a deeply personal tribute and prayer for his former bandmate from The Band, Richard Manuel, who tragically passed away on March 04 1986 by suicide at the age of 42. The track featured backing vocals from Peter Gabriel, while fellow The Band member Garth Hudson played keyboards on the song.
Manuel struggled with severe, long-term alcoholism and drug addiction for years and dealt with severe depression, a loss of confidence, and career struggles following the 1976 breakup of the original group (which was famously documented in The Last Waltz). Bandmates and colleagues later noted that the heavy touring schedule and demanding pace while trying to revive the group took a severe toll on his fragile state.
He was buried at the Avondale Cemetery in his hometown of Stratford, Ontario. Bandmate Rick Danko sang Bob Dylan’s “I Shall Be Released” at his memorial service. Stratford later honored him with a sidewalk star on Ontario Street and a memorial bench by the Avon River. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Band in 1994.
Possibly one of the most heartfelt tributes to a fellow musician I have ever heard. The whole album Robbie Robertson debut album is a must listen.
Note: It’s been 50 years since the Band’s 1976 farewell show that became the iconic concert film The Last Waltz, and a supergroup of Canadian artists will mark the anniversary with a Toronto tribute show. LW50: A Celebration of Bob Dylan and the Band will take place on November 25, 2026 at Massey Hall.
