For the first time, the Band's legendary Richard Manuel's compositions and performances are analyzed with expert commentary while shining a light on his contributions to all of his bands-and on the undeniable impact he had on rock music. Richard Manuel was a fearless original. Sweetly soulful as a vocalist and endearingly creative as a songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, he was a vital part of some of rock 'n' roll's pivotal moments, including Bob Dylan's controversial move to electric music, Woodstock 1969, and the legendary Last Waltz. Through thoughtful research and analysis, this book places Manuel's troubled yet inspired spirit within a musical and historical context. For the first time, Manuel's compositions and performances are critiqued with expert commentary-alongside new interviews with family, friends, and fellow musicians, including Eric Clapton and Van Morrison. The story traces Manuel's journey from Stratford, Ontario, to Woodstock, New York, and beyond, beginning with his first band, the Revols, then singing the blues with Robbie Robertson, Levon Helm, Rick Danko, and Garth Hudson in the Hawks, the group that would later become the Band.