The Cover of “The Weight” Robbie Robertson Called “A Dream Come True”

The late great Robbie Robertson is arguably most well-known for being Bob Dylan’s right-hand man in the ’60s and ’70s. However, his career with The Band is where his true colors prevail over Dylan’s shadow. Thanks to “Ophelia” and “King Harvest,” The Band became an integral part of the ’60s and ’70s folk rock scene. And besides these two songs, it can heavily be attributed to their hit song “The Weight.”

Upon its release in 1968, “The Weight” appeared on the charts in the US, Canada, and the UK. However, and like most hit songs, it’s only gotten better with age. That being so, many musicians have taken a liking to this song and performed covers of it. Although, the cover of Roberston’s song he thought to be simply phenomenal was Aretha Franklin’s.

Robbie Robertson Pleasent Surprise

Before receiving a message from producer, Jerry Wexler, Robertson had seemingly no clue Franklin planned to cover his song. Robertson recalled on Facebook, writing, “When the legendary Atlantic Records producer Jerry Wexler told me that he had recorded ‘The Weight’ with Aretha Franklin, I thought, how does it get better than that?”

To have anyone cover your song is tangible proof of admiration, but to have Aretha Franklin do it, is a whole other level. Franklin, often considered the best vocalist of all time, completely reimagines the classic song in a way Robertson believed not to be possible. Thanks to her angelic voice and R&B roots, the song floats gracefully. Also, Duane Allman plays a mean slide guitar on the track as well.

“When I heard their version, I was thrilled that she sang the hell out of it and had Duane Allman on slide guitar. A dream come true” and “Aretha doesn’t scream, squall, or yell, she SINGS— from the heavens with grace and style,” Robertson wrote. Robertson’s lyrics paired with Franklin’s vocals and Allman’s guitar are inexcusably perfect and offer the song a new-found and fresh R&B soul.

One of Aretha Franklin’s Greatest Hits

After releasing the song in 1969, Franklin’s cover became a staple single in her catalog. Shortly after its release, the song climbed to No. 19 on the Rhythm & Blues Singles chart. In addition to appearing on her album, This Girl’s in Love with You, it also appeared on her iconic 30 Greatest Hits album.

Given its appearance on the album, it’s fair to say that Franklin thought rather highly of Robbie Robertson’s song. Props to Robertson, as garnering praise from Aretha Franklin is almost better than winning a Grammy.

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