The first time I heard this song, way back in 1975, I broke down sobbing. My college friends couldn't understand why the song moved me so terribly, and I explained to them the story of Acadia, the Acadians, and the "Cajuns". I'll always be grateful to The Band and Robbie Robertson for telling this story that so few know.
I'm 💯 Acadian and im so proud of my ancestors ❤️ we kept movin on for better lives . We are tough folk ..this song captures every thing they went through. Thank you The Band
More than any other Band song, this is one that to me shows the depth of the heart and soul of Robbie Robertson. It is to me the best "history" song ever written in the rock era. His ability to make you feel like you were from Acadia, seaching for a new home, rejected by your conquerers, shunned by others... it's all here. I think of this every time I hear a Cajun accordian in Louisiana. And as of today, and the news of Robertson's passing, I don't think I will ever be able to hear it again without a tear.
This is the very 1st time that I ever remember hearing this song!! I am a descendant of the Acadians that ended up in South Louisiana... we are now called Cajuns!! This definitely brings tears to your eyes if you are a descendant of these strong willed people. I have always heard that our people are a resilient people! These genes and our blood comes from our Ancestors who suffered all of these hardships after being driven from their homes. I am very proud to be a Cajun and I am so proud of our heritage!! I feel very Blessed to be a descendant of the Acadians!!
Wish everyone had it in them to look back in time, and realize how hard it was to just live - to just survive. The Band's music is something I will take to the place known as Heaven, and play this album on a turntable God will provide. Be safe peoples.
My family are descended from Acadians, they ended up fleeing to Quebec and barely escaped the ships. They stayed along the border for years then moved into Aroostook County in Maine. They have remained there till this day. My family are still full French and speak French. I'm part of the first generation where they married non French. Sadly I was never taught French. This song really moves me and helps me to better understand what our people endured. Such a sadness to this, but such strength too. There is no doubt our ancestors were resilient and strong people.
I went to the bank the other day and the young teller had a very French family name. Had light brown hair and blue eyes and told me both parents were from Dominican Republic. I immediately thought of the song and jotted it down for her on a deposit slip so she could fire up this TH-cam. She plans on doing DNA and I feel she may be descended from this diaspora.
Yes I was quite amazed to learn there are still french speaking folks in Maine. There are large parts of Northern Ontario that are french speaking too. My home province. I didnt realize this either until i spent time there in the eighties.
Yet another sad chapter not taught in our Canadian schools. Thank you Robbie Robertson and your band mates for the heartfelt way this beautiful song draws our attention to the sad plight of the Acadians.
Hey Peter. Great song but the historical narrative in the song is in error. For example the Battle on the Plains of Abraham took place in 1759, four years after the initial deportations in 1755.
@@petermarsh5762I was in school in Ontario in the 1970s and 80s. We learned about Wolfe and Montcalm at the Plains of Abraham, and about the expulsion of the Acadians, so I'm sure I learned it. Maybe it depends on the time and place.
Yes, they were a very special band, I remember being moved by their music when I was in my teens and even after all these years their music does it for me.
@@CryptoGrizzly710 My Dad is a great guy and loves his classical music, opera, and also some jazz like Miles Davis and Jerry Mulligan. But I remember several years ago we were riding in my car and I had a Band tape playing and he says, You like this stuff? I said, Yeah... yeah I do. And I just let it keep playing, I don't know why. Typically I would have turned it off, or found something else. But not that time. My Dad was of a different era and he did not like pop music in general, which back then was like Elvis. Though years later he would say he liked the Beatles because they had a sense of humor, but he didn't buy any of their records, except once he bought Sgt. Peppers for my sister on her 13th birthday (we wore that vinyl out!). So that was cool. I bought many of The Band's records and I like a lot of stuff on their later records, like Acadian Driftwood and songs like "Rags and Bones", it has a great feel to it and and a nice guitar solo.
this is a complete masterpiece in every way - the voices, the fiddle, accordion and the history lesson brilliant and moving -winter in my blood -stunning
History in a beautiful song. Those with power always seem to abuse that power. I've always felt a strange attraction to Canada or Arcadia. I just don't get it but this work sort of fills in some gaps. I have kin in Arcadia some of my mum's family emigrated there after the British gave them independence in 1951.
Robbie was such an inspiration. Acadian Driftwood beautifully recounts the story of the 1755 expulsion of the Acadians [le grand derangement]. My wife is Acadian, from a town in the Gaspé region of Quebec where her family fled. The song touches her soul [and mine.] It ranks with “The Day they Drove Old Dixie Down.”. Thank you for posting M. Beliveau. RIP Robbie
I think this is the Band’s finest song. You know you are good when you wrote The Weight and it isn’t even your best song. These guys wrote and sang on another planet.
The Expulsion is a black mark on the history of Nova Scotia. Good to see a Canadian band that made it as big as The Band by telling the stories of America telling the lesser known stories of Canada.
I'm writing this message from the Acadian peninsula New Brunswick. I've never heard this song before, I gotta say it pretty awesome to hear our story sung out this way, it kinda blew my mind.
I would like to make sure that everyone understands that despite the dispersion, the life of Acadie is still strong. We take great pride in our struggle and are proud to share our homeland with the rest of the world. A taste of Acadie can be found in Cap-Pele, Shediac, Dieppe and many other places in the Maritime provinces of Atlantic Canada. Vive l'Acadie....je t'aimerai pour toujours. XOXOX
The Band has to be my absolute most favorite music of all time. So much emotion and talent in their music. R.I.P. Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Richard Manuel. You will be remembered for generations to come.. They don't make music of this caliber anymore.
My late husband's family was descended from Joseph 'Beausoliel' Broussard, a hero of the Acadian Resistance against the British - who brought his family to what is now St. Martin Parish, Louisiana; at that time a Spanish possession. Knowing these French-speaking Catholics had no love lost for the Brits, the King of Spain gave generous land grants to Acadians, helping to secure the Louisiana from the British. Subsequently, Acadians fought in the American Revolution, and notably WWI and WWII - French speaking skills were critical to espionage efforts in both wars. At 5:14 into the video, you see a painting by artist Robert Dafford's version of the Acadians arrival. The man with white hair was our Uncle Wallace Broussard (who was actually bald.) Next to him is Eddie Richard, Zachary Richard father.
A magnificent telling of the diaspora of the Acadian people.Called "Cajuns", this people has left an indelible mark on the history of Louisiana.Their courage, talent and resourcefulness comes through in this song.Kudos to The Band for this ballad of history.
Born and raised in Toronto and this tune says it all...Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P E I , Newfoundland...been there. This is our country and I love it!
@@CryptoGrizzly710 I'm 100% Irish and I never believed I was or could be anything else other than Irish, I've been living in Toronto for nearly 7 years now and have been a fan of The Band since my Dad introduced me to them/Dylan, when I was born I imagine, but my earliest memory is from when I was 6 or 7 years old! I have loved their music with a passion since then, I have visited Richard's grave in his home of Stratford, Ontario to pay my respects and I have ventured as far as Woodstock, NY , to visit Big Pink, (with my dad) to feel their music, to walk where there walked and just to appreciate them! The longer I live in this great country called Canada, the more I believe I'm Canadian!
I also cry most of the time I listen to the song. Parents post wwii immigrants isolation prejudice loss of ethnic culture for no reason based on no good reason great art makes the viewer listen have an emotional reaction from the power of language and music. Never afraid or ashamed to feel human emotion and empathy
That clavinet and fiddle playing over that Dm9 to wierd inverted eb chord is hauntingly beautiful. I listen to this over and over it just gets better, What a record
i'm a Chiasson from the Magdelen Islands and this song tells my ancestors story. 1755 deported to St-Pierre from Beaubassin and than to the Magdelen Islands in 1798. My family still live in this paradise.
Hello, I'm an Irishman living and working in this great country of yours! Could you advise me on a book that can relate to history within this great song? Thanks
@@LarryStAmant-jc2xj I live off Bonin in Lafayette, right at the edge of Broussard and Youngsville. 15 miles from St. Martinville where the L'Acadie Nouvelle story began.
@@cyberpleb2472 CBC has put out a few interesting short pieces on the topic, but between the religious, linguistic, and political baggage associated with the Acadian diaspora a big, high-quality doc on the subject is unlikely unless it is independently funded.
And goose bumps. Achingly beautiful. Far enough back our paternal line was involved, ended up in New Hampshire. There is a Jeannotte mercantile in Nashua to this day. Traditional Acadian goods.
the one beauty of this is that they settled in south louisiana where i have enjoyed these incredible people and i an from upstate new york i have a camp down on the beach here and nothing compares to south louisiana and at the acadian area in lafayette louisiana the happiest rated place to live in this country right now and forever
I grew up in a colonial town in CT and like many others we had an "Acadian House" that dates back to this 18th century diaspora. This is an important event all Americans should learn about. And This is one of the Band's best songs - and that's saying a lot.
The Band was and still is real American music. Roots music. There is nothing better ever. Too bad none of the kids today will never know how great this is. They will never ever know who the Band were or any of the songs or anything. A great shame to be denied all this great music. This heritage because its not the big hit single, album or video of the week. I'm so glad to have grown up with the Band and then to have a chance to see them live when they reformed. Thanx for posting this.
I agree I'm 15 and I'm.probably the only one in my entire school who knows the Band. The Band in my opinion like you said is one of the best. The Band Influenced many other musicians. My favorite Band no doubt.
I hate that talkin' about how children these days didn't know THE BAND and bla bla bla, I'm 21 now and I listened to the band since i was a kid. And lots of other great "old school " music too. And I know for sure they're more "kids" like me. Am I right ? ))
Not from what I've seen of what the kids or most people listen to nowadays. A band or artist have a big hit single, now they can listen to them. If they play music without the big hit single, album or video, then there is no way they know what that is. These kids or people definitely wouldn't understand the Band. Never. Absolutely & totally impossible. I'm so thankful & grateful that I know who the Band are.
This was my first favourite song from The Band. It captured me from St. Louis Mo where I first heard it to Prince George, BC Canada, today, more than 30 years later. It has been a long road with this song still sweet on my brain. Canadian cold front movin in. And I am home now.
My wife and I spent a quiet Sunday morning at the Grand Pre park. The most haunting and beautiful place I have ever been. The church is amazing. The art work is stunning and heart breaking.
David Bergin I agree, however, you will surely find other pieces of art that will send you thus. Just do not allow your input to stagnate. Read, listen, take in EVERYTHING. It's a goal, anyway...
Living only about 45 minutes away from where my first 17th Century ancestor lived in South East New Brunswick. Once an Acadian, always an Acadian. Thanks for the video.
With this masterpiece, The Band takes its place as a great historic troubadore."Acadian Driftwood" tells the story of the diaspora of the Acadians-called "Cajuns" in Louisiana.Rapid fire talk, unforgettable food, lightning quick minds....all of this was forged by the crucible of history as told so lyrically by The Band.Magnificent song.
Just a beautiful rendition of a great tune by a historical band. There will only be one The Band.We were blessed to witness this group and we will have their music always!!!
Great song. Hits on so many levels. I am descended from those people on mother's and father's side. I've walked the land of my ancestors at Pre Ronde and near Bloody Creek. Inspiring, the strength and fortitude within people. The history is one of the original "final solutions" with a little more humanity than what came in the 20th century. My ancestors escaped to the woods and lived as fugitives until resettling near present day Fredericton, N.B., only to be displaced again after the American Revolution by expulsion and resettlement of Loyalists on their land. They went upriver to the Madawaska. So proud of them and so gratified for their fortitude.
Always been my favorite band.l graduated high school in 81 none of my friends ever understood the music I listened to. This is my favorite Band song. It makes me cry when I hear it knowing I will never see them again. I've been in hospital for the last 4 months and I will get to see at least some of them soon.
A beautiful song I remember being taught in primary school in the 70s with hippies for teachers. So melancholy, the heartbreak of the death and birth of nations......owed at least remembrance...
I'd never realized just how much The Band's music effected me until I heard about Levon Helm's passing. I didn't expect to cry and found myself choking back tears all day. These guys were the genuine article. There's not many other bands in their league. Thanks for all the heartfelt music, guys. Much love.
Acadia was a North American colony started by France in 1604. "Acadian Driftwood" is about the Expulsion of the Acadians, which involved Britain forcing the deportation of more than 11,000 Acadians during the French and Indian War. Known as the "Acadian Migration," the story is one that intrigued group leader Robbie Robertson, who wrote the song. "Acadian Driftwood" (from "The Last Waltz" soundtrack) The war was over and the spirit was broken The hills were smokin' as the men withdrew We stood on the cliffs Oh, and watched the ships Slowly sinking to their rendezvous They signed a treaty and our homes were taken Loved ones forsaken They didn't give a damn Try'n' to raise a family End up the enemy Over what went down on the plains of Abraham Acadian driftwood Gypsy tail wind
Its is not known as the Acadian Migration as that implies they had a choice in the matter. It is referred to as the 'Deportation of the Acadians', 'Expulsion of the Acadians', and the larger diaspora as the 'Grand Dérangement'.
For years never knew this song, then when I did find it didn't take it with me Offshore while I worked.. I played it quite often for the Cajuns I worked with and there's always a tear even from the ol "Tool Pusher" and he's usually a stonewall...
Was there ever a bunch of musicians as beautiful as the Band in their prime? Saw them three times in the sixties - knockout! Blame Robbie for the break up - whatever - nothing lasts forever. At least we have these sweet memories to remind us of a timeless music that stands above & beyond anything before or since...
steve fanger uhhhh skynyrd, ronnie wrote about their life in Jacksonville and I have literally seen the house they grew up in down the road from the country store where Curtis Loew played his dobroh
Don't blame Robbie. He was so creative he needed to move on, but he was the one who planned the last waltz with scorcese and took them out in unprecedented style.
Plus we do have to move on. We have to leave high school. The Beatles broke up. Dont blame Yoko, they all matured. Otherwise, you get the Stones (I love them but they need to hang it up) The Who (2 original guys calling it the Who) or Marshall Tucker Band who were also fantastic but now only the lead singer is running around with the band name. Aerosmith should have hung it up a long time ago. The list goes on. Let me quote another of my Canadian neighbors and say its better to burn out than fade away. Go out on a high note. The Band most certainly did.
BIG snow last few days here on the east coast and I kept singing pieces of the song and thought it was by the Band but couldn't put the pieces together. So glad to find this especially since I just last weekend was in Canada. What a GREAT song
You're called "Cajun" because the Brits couldn't pronounce "Acadien". When the deportees had to identify themselves they did so in French: " Je suis acadien". They thought they were saying " I'm a Cajun". There you go.
Half Acadian here, didn't know about the people until I got a DNA test. Ancestry can't even say "Acadian" they say "European" but the groups are there. I want to visit Louisiana.
Let all our friends within the influence of the aquifer hear, understand and rejoice----- here in Massachusetts, we are following and will share info on the situation. We love and send energy to protect you all and hold you in our dream ---- that no harm will befall you or your loved ones, and that health, healing and success will become your way of life regardless of the obscurations, obstacles and toxins you may encounter . . . ....
Has anyone said this yet? "Robbie Robertson wrote some of the most reflective, introspective, and touching lyrics in the history of modern music." There, I said it. Much respect, Mr. Robertson. You have a way with words that outs a cry in my eye and a lump in my throat.
The 15th of August all over New Brunswick Canada (but especially the Acadian Peninsula) is Acadia Day/La Fete Des Acadiens. So if you would like to take part in a week long giant party/celebrations, with 10s of thousands of Acadians, come on over. Tons of Cajuns come over cause were all the same. If you don't speak French, no problem, we're the only province in Canada that is officially Bilingual. The Acadians around here (Acadia) are super hospitable, very humble and compassionate people. They love tourist, not for the revenue it brings at all, we just like meeting new people and showing off our gem of an area we are fortunate and grateful for. If you need something, someone will ussually help you out free of charge and then give you something. I love this place so I'm a bit biased, but just ask anyone that's been here, and they'll all say the same. Remember THE 15th OF AUGUST IS ACADIA DAY/LA FETE DES ACADIENS!
@@GuyBelliveau Right on!! I just seen your comment. I hope you had a great time. We had our "tintamare" in Caraquet NB (Acadian Peninsula) As always, an awesome time was had by all. We had a corn boil going on, steamed muscles, pork on the spit slowly turned to perfection, BBQ, a huge buffet table, all outside. No shortage of wine, beer ect. We topped the night off with a fireworks show, next door neighbor has his own fireworks shop all custom packed, it was beautiful. Guy, If you want to come over next year, give me a shout and you and your's are welcome. This video showed a piece of art I was completely unaware of before, and I appreciate that, so you and yours can be one our guests next 15th if you'd like.
I've loved this song since it was first released. It touchs me and my ancestry even though I am not Acadian. L'Acadie has a direct connection to small Scottish diaspora caused by the British in the 1700s. The French supported the Scots who wanted independence during the 1600-1700s. When things in Scotland got bad under the British, the French offered my ancestors and others safe passage to l'Acadie and other French colonies to escape. My ancestors settled in northern New Brunswick among the Acadians as a result. Aspects of French - Scottish alliance of the 1700s appear in the series 'Outlander'.
And here's yet another one. After the American Revolution, Loyalists living in New York and the New England states, many of them German, were forcibly deported by the new state governments to New Brunswick. My Debeck and Althause ancestors were among them. One of my great-grandmothers Debeck, widowed with two babies during the war, petitioned the Governor of New Brunswick for a small parcel of land. As her husband had served the Crown to his death, her petition was granted, and she and her small children did not starve.
The French only supported the very few Scots who wanted independence because it was a means to undermine the British Government. They didn't give a damn about the minority of Scots that wanted independence. They were just using them as pawns to further their own colonial ambitions. When you say "British" you mean Scots too. Look at the flag. There were more Scots in the British Army fighting against the Jacobite rebels at Culloden than any other nation of the United Kingdom.
@@malbuff The Loyalist were not really deported. As people who had remained loyal to the British crown staying in the new USA was not the best of options and there were many who suffered persecution. The Loyalist were more refugee than anything else.
malbuff Thanks. Much appreciated. I have to say that the music makes the video . I was just trying to let people know what the song was about. The song means a lot to me and my ancestry.
Beautiful drawings and paintings! And punchy maps...well done, well though-out. Perfect link with one of my favorites songs by The Band. Thank you, Guy!
This tune always makes me tear up knowing my ancestors are were from that area in eastern Canada and probably suffered thru these events , I’ve been to New Orleans a few times and enjoyed the Acadian culture there , The food, especially the great Music , I’m older now and want to plan a trip to the eastern Canadian maritimes to see the area of my ancestors
Thank you, Mr. Belliveau, for formulating this educational video for us TH-camrs ! Great Job !! And I too have learned something today about the Cajun Folk though having listened to this Great Ballad for Years.
We are from Galliano . Military family. Gone 40 years now. Since direct hit from Hurricane Ida area still looks bad but again the strength of our people...never ending generation after generation. Be well.
I agree with you Robert. This is one of the best songs that The Band did. It makes me sad too. Robbie Robertson knew and still knows how to write great songs. After the first time I heard this song I read up on this incident. And I'm a huge history buff. But until this song I really didn't know the story of the Cajun people.
I grew up in Fort Kent Maine which is an Acadian community. "Set my compass North I've got winter in my blood" has always really resonated since I moved away after high school.
Thanks for posting this. 'Tis one of my faves from The Band. It was written by Robbie Robertson, who took inspiration from Henry Wadsworth Longfellows' poem 'Evangeline'. The song first appears on The Band's 1975 album, Northern Lights - Southern Cross. The lead vocal is traded between Richard Manuel, Levon Helm, and Rick Danko, and the harmonies are all three of them.
One of my favorite songs of All Time--such soul about a true story of a persecuted people. I don't know for certain, but I'll bet my son knows the words by heart, as I used to sing this to the record as I walked him to calm him. Levon Helm is genius,
The Band... Ever since I heard them play as young man back when, there was something that always kept drawing me back to their music.. The melancholy sense of timelessness still draws me to them 50 years later. Their music has coupled the experiences and lives of generations past with we who live in the present. I can only describe this sense as the feeling that one may get when you would wander an old isolated country cemetery in late summer dotted with the graves of Civil War veterans . It is a spiritual experience.
Love the Band, but Levon and Rick were my favorites. There was a quality about those two that moved my soul... Beautiful, distinctive voices. I feel blessed to have lived in my generation. What incredible music!
Agreed, but Richard Manuel’s singing - perhaps especially his performance on Dylan’s 1966 Bootleg (in England) “One Too Many Mornings” - are up there, too.
The Band’s distillation of the Acadian’s exile from what’s now Nova Scotia and New Brunswick is possibly their finest song. As sad as their story is, the song itself is also beguiling and sublime and quickly draws you in and mesmerizes you with its melody and vocals as well as the Cajun instrumentation.
Although the song draws attention to the plight of the Acadians, the timeline in the song is all wrong as are other pieces of information carried in the lyrics.
And, yes, the Band was mixed up, too; hence the end of the group & early death of some members. They just happened to work their asses off to become as good a group of musicians as ever played rock & roll. I'll be happy to argue that Levon Helm is THE iconic rock & roll artist.
Thanks for the education! I've loved this tune for years, but did not know the background. I figured it was probably about the American Civil War. Being from the southern shores of Lake Erie, the love of the northern regions is what's always moved me: "...Ya can call it an omen, point ya where yer goin'. Set my compass north I got winter in my blood.." I got as far north as Quebec and New Brunswick on a bicycle trip YEARS ago, so "acadian driftwood" strikes a direct chord there too.
My ancestors were part of the Flight of the Earls from Ireland in the early 17th century and the Acadian story has a familiar feel. Distinct and defiant little cultures and clans forced out by world events but enduring in pockets across the world to this day. Sustaining the language and retelling the stories is all that keeps it alive. Music has been central to this for thousands of years. Listen to Bluegrass and Celtic folk songs - they sound amazingly similar and serve the same purpose. Author David Hackett Fischer calls these enduring "folkways".
Acadian DriftwoodBy The BandThe war was over and the spirit was broken The hills were smokin' as the men withdrew We stood on the cliffs Oh, and watched the ships Slowly sinking to their rendezvous They signed a treaty and our homes were taken Loved ones forsaken They didn't give a damn Try to raise a family End up the enemy Over what went down on the plains of Abraham[Chorus] Acadian driftwood Gypsy tail wind They call my home the land of snow Canadian cold front movin' in Oh, what a way to ride Oh, what a way to goThen some returned to the motherland The high command had them cast away Some stayed on to finish what they started They never parted They're just built that way We had kin livin' south of the border They're a little older and they've been around They wrote a letter, life here is a whole lot better So pull up your stakes, children and come on down[Chorus]Fifteen under zero when the day became a threat My clothes were wet and I was drenched to the bone Been out ice fishing, too much repetition Make a man wanna leave the only home he's known Sailing out of the gulf headin' for Saint Pierre Nothin' to declareAll we had was gone Broke down along the coast But what hurt the most When the people there said "You better keep movin' on"Everlasting summer filled with ill-content This government had us walkin' in chains This isn't my turf This ain't my season Can't think of one good reason to remain I've worked in the sugar fields up from New Orleans It was evergreen up until the floods You could call it an omen Points you where you're goin' Set my compass north I got winter in my blood[Chorus]Sais tu, Acadia, j'ai le mal do pays Ta neige, Acadia, fait des larmes au soleil J'arrive, Acadia, j'ai le mal do pays Ta neige, Acadia, fait des larmes au soleil
I'm a fan of metal music, and I just heard about these guys. I really liked them, so I did some research on The Band. I found out that Levon Helm died a few weeks ago, and I'm so sad... RIP Levon, May Your Music and Spirit Never Die, for we will always love you.
It's brainy, no doubt. But if you want more of such intelligence I suggest Al Stewart. Roads To Moscow, Nostradomus, On The Border, and many others he penned and sings.
Listening to this is a bittersweet experience. The song is beautiful, and the slide show is interesting and tasteful. But to know that we will never again hear those three voices makes me sad. Anyway, this is a great video. Merci beaucoup, M. Beliveau!
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The first time I heard this song, way back in 1975, I broke down sobbing. My college friends couldn't understand why the song moved me so terribly, and I explained to them the story of Acadia, the Acadians, and the "Cajuns". I'll always be grateful to The Band and Robbie Robertson for telling this story that so few know.
Amen.
I’m 35 and not Cajun, or French, and it makes me cry every time I hear this song. It’s such a powerful story.
❤👍🙏 sad treatment of the Acadians : a great people ! Gob bless the band . Tradition and history captured by the great ' The Band'
I loved Levon Helm He was the only band member that was not Canadian He was from Arkansas They remain in my heart and soul The Band ❤
I'm 💯 Acadian and im so proud of my ancestors ❤️ we kept movin on for better lives . We are tough folk ..this song captures every thing they went through. Thank you The Band
More than any other Band song, this is one that to me shows the depth of the heart and soul of Robbie Robertson. It is to me the best "history" song ever written in the rock era. His ability to make you feel like you were from Acadia, seaching for a new home, rejected by your conquerers, shunned by others... it's all here. I think of this every time I hear a Cajun accordian in Louisiana. And as of today, and the news of Robertson's passing, I don't think I will ever be able to hear it again without a tear.
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Yes, I am Cajun and this song has always moved me deeply.
Very well said and I completely agree.
yeah its a good song baby a damn good song bands songs had such deep deep depth to them yeah robbie and the boys
Jesus, Robbie. I sure did appreciate your offerings. Go to bed.
This is the very 1st time that I ever remember hearing this song!! I am a descendant of the Acadians that ended up in South Louisiana... we are now called Cajuns!! This definitely brings tears to your eyes if you are a descendant of these strong willed people. I have always heard that our people are a resilient people! These genes and our blood comes from our Ancestors who suffered all of these hardships after being driven from their homes. I am very proud to be a Cajun and I am so proud of our heritage!! I feel very Blessed to be a descendant of the Acadians!!
One of my favorite songs all time.
Wish everyone had it in them to look back in time, and realize how hard it was to just live - to just survive. The Band's music is something I will take to the place known as Heaven, and play this album on a turntable God will provide. Be safe peoples.
Always knew this song. I only recently learned it was about many of my ancestors.
God Bless the great Acadian people........now proudly known as Cajuns!@@JimDorman
This brings tears to your eyes even if you are not Cajun
My family are descended from Acadians, they ended up fleeing to Quebec and barely escaped the ships. They stayed along the border for years then moved into Aroostook County in Maine. They have remained there till this day. My family are still full French and speak French. I'm part of the first generation where they married non French. Sadly I was never taught French.
This song really moves me and helps me to better understand what our people endured. Such a sadness to this, but such strength too. There is no doubt our ancestors were resilient and strong people.
I went to the bank the other day and the young teller had a very French family name. Had light brown hair and blue eyes and told me both parents were from Dominican Republic. I immediately thought of the song and jotted it down for her on a deposit slip so she could fire up this TH-cam. She plans on doing DNA and I feel she may be descended from this diaspora.
¡ THANKS FOR SHARING !
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I have a similar heritage
Yes I was quite amazed to learn there are still french speaking folks in Maine. There are large parts of Northern Ontario that are french speaking too. My home province. I didnt realize this either until i spent time there in the eighties.
Yet another sad chapter not taught in our Canadian schools. Thank you Robbie Robertson and your band mates for the heartfelt way this beautiful song draws our attention to the sad plight of the Acadians.
Hey Peter. Great song but the historical narrative in the song is in error. For example the Battle on the Plains of Abraham took place in 1759, four years after the initial deportations in 1755.
Hi, we do teach it. It's part of Grade 7 curriculum here in Ontario.
@@jenniferdoucet6889 glad to hear they are teaching now. They did not when I attended Ontario schools.
Even more sad: the passing of Mr. Robertson himself!
@@petermarsh5762I was in school in Ontario in the 1970s and 80s. We learned about Wolfe and Montcalm at the Plains of Abraham, and about the expulsion of the Acadians, so I'm sure I learned it. Maybe it depends on the time and place.
My favorite Band song of all time. I love the story telling, how beautiful & whimsy it is. It’s just the best 💓
Thank you Andrea. Much appreciated.
My favorite Band song too.
Robbies songwriting is unreal. Richard, Levon and Ricks singing is unreal. The Bands music will be in my life forever.
Yes, they were a very special band, I remember being moved by their music when I was in my teens and even after all these years their music does it for me.
me and the rest of the world that has any brain
till i die
They were all very talented... sad they broke up when they were peaking.. imagine what music they would have made if they'd stayed together
@@CryptoGrizzly710 My Dad is a great guy and loves his classical music, opera, and also some jazz like Miles Davis and Jerry Mulligan. But I remember several years ago we were riding in my car and I had a Band tape playing and he says, You like this stuff? I said, Yeah... yeah I do. And I just let it keep playing, I don't know why. Typically I would have turned it off, or found something else. But not that time. My Dad was of a different era and he did not like pop music in general, which back then was like Elvis. Though years later he would say he liked the Beatles because they had a sense of humor, but he didn't buy any of their records, except once he bought Sgt. Peppers for my sister on her 13th birthday (we wore that vinyl out!). So that was cool.
I bought many of The Band's records and I like a lot of stuff on their later records, like Acadian Driftwood and songs like "Rags and Bones", it has a great feel to it and and a nice guitar solo.
this is a complete masterpiece in every way - the voices, the fiddle, accordion and the history lesson brilliant and moving -winter in my blood -stunning
I'm an Acadian descendant living in Nova Scotia. I'm 38 and just found this song. Incredible!
History in a beautiful song. Those with power always seem to abuse that power. I've always felt a strange attraction to Canada or Arcadia. I just don't get it but this work sort of fills in some gaps. I have kin in Arcadia some of my mum's family emigrated there after the British gave them independence in 1951.
i truly love this song,i"m a upstate. new yorker.one of the finest music i"ve ever heard.
One of their greatest songs and has taught me a lot. Regards from London, England.
I'm a Cajun descent of the exiled Acadians
I'm also of Acadian ancestry living in Louisiana but here we're called Cajuns
Robbie was such an inspiration. Acadian Driftwood beautifully recounts the story of the 1755 expulsion of the Acadians [le grand derangement]. My wife is Acadian, from a town in the Gaspé region of Quebec where her family fled. The song touches her soul [and mine.] It ranks with “The Day they Drove Old Dixie Down.”. Thank you for posting M. Beliveau. RIP Robbie
I think this is the Band’s finest song. You know you are good when you wrote The Weight and it isn’t even your best song. These guys wrote and sang on another planet.
Robbie wrote on another planet and the the other members sang and played on another planet. The were all other wordly.
The Expulsion is a black mark on the history of Nova Scotia. Good to see a Canadian band that made it as big as The Band by telling the stories of America telling the lesser known stories of Canada.
I'm writing this message from the Acadian peninsula New Brunswick. I've never heard this song before, I gotta say it pretty awesome to hear our story sung out this way, it kinda blew my mind.
I would like to make sure that everyone understands that despite the dispersion, the life of Acadie is still strong. We take great pride in our struggle and are proud to share our homeland with the rest of the world. A taste of Acadie can be found in Cap-Pele, Shediac, Dieppe and many other places in the Maritime provinces of Atlantic Canada. Vive l'Acadie....je t'aimerai pour toujours. XOXOX
Please tell me about me linrage. I'm an aydelotte
I'm a 💯 Acadian from Bouctouche NB ,and yes we're still a tough and proud breed no boubt ♡ I'm a Roy,LeBlanc,Duplessis & Caissie ..I loved your story
BEAUTY😊
"Set my compass north, I got winter in my blood" is easily one of my favorite song lyrics
The Band has to be my absolute most favorite music of all time. So much emotion and talent in their music. R.I.P. Levon Helm, Rick Danko and Richard Manuel. You will be remembered for generations to come.. They don't make music of this caliber anymore.
Definitely the best group ever, Mike.
That's why they were The Band. Anyone else, such a name would be very pretentious. Not so with these 5 men.
No they don't make music of this caliber anymore.. Nobody else ever has for that matter. It is timeless.
That's totally true. Coming from abroad, I could not have said it any better. Song brings tears to my eyes.
@@nathanwhitten8950 your damn right brother
RIP Robbie. Love that Acadian folk tune!
My father's people were Acadian, my mother's grandparents born in Ireland, fled the potato famine. Displacement is in my blood. What an amazing song.
My late husband's family was descended from Joseph 'Beausoliel' Broussard, a hero of the Acadian Resistance against the British - who brought his family to what is now St. Martin Parish, Louisiana; at that time a Spanish possession. Knowing these French-speaking Catholics had no love lost for the Brits, the King of Spain gave generous land grants to Acadians, helping to secure the Louisiana from the British. Subsequently, Acadians fought in the American Revolution, and notably WWI and WWII - French speaking skills were critical to espionage efforts in both wars. At 5:14 into the video, you see a painting by artist Robert Dafford's version of the Acadians arrival. The man with white hair was our Uncle Wallace Broussard (who was actually bald.) Next to him is Eddie Richard, Zachary Richard father.
Thank You, Guy, for your presentation of this amazing, heart-breaking song. Thank You, Jamie, Thank You, The Band 💖💖💖💖💖
"the people there said you better keep moving on" always brings tears
Definitely agree. Same reaction here. It's stronger if you happen to be visiting Grand-Pre in NS when you listen to this
Reminds me of Woody Guthrie’s songs about Okies and pea patch papas.
A magnificent telling of the diaspora of the Acadian people.Called "Cajuns", this people has left an indelible mark on the history of Louisiana.Their courage, talent and resourcefulness comes through in this song.Kudos to The Band for this ballad of history.
i am from upstate new york and south louisiana is the best place besides upststate new york in this country i live here i know
What does "14" mean here?@terryq5150
How come nobody ever talks about how great this song is? So emotional and with a fantastic hook, too.
Your youtube account is the same age as me😂
Yeah, especially the Cajun fiddle by the late, great Byron Berline!
I'll talk! Somewhere I said the song should be a miniseries.
I remember buying the vinyl. When it came out. Already a band fan. And....I thought, at the time...how can it get any better than this?
Amen kid! Fucking precious!
Born and raised in Toronto and this tune says it all...Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, P E I , Newfoundland...been there. This is our country and I love it!
fasteddie7161 it looks beautiful. I can't wait to tour. Bless 🇨🇦 and 🇺🇸😻🤘🏼🍍❣️😎🌵❄️☘️🌬
so better than the deep south with all the hyprocisy
u should be very proud all canadians
@@CryptoGrizzly710 I'm 100% Irish and I never believed I was or could be anything else other than Irish, I've been living in Toronto for nearly 7 years now and have been a fan of The Band since my Dad introduced me to them/Dylan, when I was born I imagine, but my earliest memory is from when I was 6 or 7 years old! I have loved their music with a passion since then, I have visited Richard's grave in his home of Stratford, Ontario to pay my respects and I have ventured as far as Woodstock, NY , to visit Big Pink, (with my dad) to feel their music, to walk where there walked and just to appreciate them! The longer I live in this great country called Canada, the more I believe I'm Canadian!
I also cry most of the time I listen to the song. Parents post wwii immigrants isolation prejudice loss of ethnic culture for no reason based on no good reason great art makes the viewer listen have an emotional reaction from the power of language and music. Never afraid or ashamed to feel human emotion and empathy
That clavinet and fiddle playing over that Dm9 to wierd inverted eb chord is hauntingly beautiful. I listen to this over and over it just gets better, What a record
Agreed. Magical....
Took me like 3 hours to figure out what that was, I should have read the comments!
Man yeah! Are you sure you arent my bassist? Yes the band has some extremely unique yet familiar sounds from the olden days
@@thelatenightnomadIt's Magic bro. Greetings from the UK
@@scootmcgoot570 Amazing. I'd love to visit the USA one day, x
i'm a Chiasson from the Magdelen Islands and this song tells my ancestors story.
1755 deported to St-Pierre from Beaubassin and than to the Magdelen Islands in 1798.
My family still live in this paradise.
Hello, I'm an Irishman living and working in this great country of yours! Could you advise me on a book that can relate to history within this great song? Thanks
Tu aurais du écrire, Iles-de-la-Madeleine, à mon humble avis
You are blessed to be from Isles de la Madeleine. I hope you are never overrun by gringos.
They are gringos fool. Gringo means north american from north of mexico
The history of the Acadians would make an incredible PBS documentary !
Or a CBC documentary. ;)
Look for attackappa: a Cajun story they are my people. Against the tide also about my people
@@LarryStAmant-jc2xj I live off Bonin in Lafayette, right at the edge of Broussard and Youngsville. 15 miles from St. Martinville where the L'Acadie Nouvelle story began.
@@philipearlmcg3964 I'm in Lafayette
@@cyberpleb2472 CBC has put out a few interesting short pieces on the topic, but between the religious, linguistic, and political baggage associated with the Acadian diaspora a big, high-quality doc on the subject is unlikely unless it is independently funded.
The best band ever. You can't argue they are not the best storytellers of the rock era. Just one after the other.
Joel Wexler you got that right man. Some of the best music and it's like a history lesson as well.
nobody came close
Grateful Dead is certainly up there!
@@FaqueGoogle-wo6ip you got that right my man
They had it all.
Their best song hands down. Always get misty hearing this🌹♥️✌
This song is history (if you actually listen to the words and have a bit of heart) it will make a man shed a tear.
I have shed tears over it
Man, you’re not kidding. My first listen honestly.
And goose bumps. Achingly beautiful. Far enough back our paternal line was involved, ended up in New Hampshire. There is a Jeannotte mercantile in Nashua to this day. Traditional Acadian goods.
all of the above & below,,,
I’m American with no cultural connection, I always cry when I hear this song.
This has to be one of the most emotional songs I have ever heard.
I heard it when it first came out....long ago. 1975 I think. Bought the vinyl.. Thank you for feeling as I do. I still have the cover and the album.
I will give it to whomever will treasure it. Free shipping. Give me an address and let me know that you are not just a BS artist.
Try Richard's "You don't know me", Japan tour version. His heart is in every lyric.
One of the best songs by the best group ever. Miss you Levon, our Arkansas boy.
My favourite song from The Band. hauntingly beautiful and yet a sad story at the same time.....
the one beauty of this is that they settled in south louisiana where i have enjoyed these incredible people and i an from upstate new york i have a camp down on the beach here and nothing compares to south louisiana and at the acadian area in lafayette louisiana the happiest rated place to live in this country right now and forever
Pulled straight from history and tellin the story beautifully, Acadian Driftwood is my favorite song from The Band.
I grew up in a colonial town in CT and like many others we had an "Acadian House" that dates back to this 18th century diaspora. This is an important event all Americans should learn about. And This is one of the Band's best songs - and that's saying a lot.
You are absolutely correct when you say "and that's saying a lot". Saw them 27 times and never did they perform this gem.
Not even once?? That's kind of a shame.
Levon helm's daughter does it with her band handsome strangers (I think that's the band name)
Just saw her do it on the Last Waltz Remembered tour. It was this good.
Which town, Woodkern?
The Band was and still is real American music. Roots music. There is nothing better ever. Too bad none of the kids today will never know how great this is. They will never ever know who the Band were or any of the songs or anything. A great shame to be denied all this great music. This heritage because its not the big hit single, album or video of the week. I'm so glad to have grown up with the Band and then to have a chance to see them live when they reformed. Thanx for posting this.
I agree I'm 15 and I'm.probably the only one in my entire school who knows the Band. The Band in my opinion like you said is one of the best. The Band Influenced many other musicians. My favorite Band no doubt.
I hate that talkin' about how children these days didn't know THE BAND and bla bla bla, I'm 21 now and I listened to the band since i was a kid. And lots of other great "old school " music too. And I know for sure they're more "kids" like me. Am I right ? ))
Not from what I've seen of what the kids or most people listen to nowadays. A band or artist have a big hit single, now they can listen to them. If they play music without the big hit single, album or video, then there is no way they know what that is. These kids or people definitely wouldn't understand the Band. Never. Absolutely & totally impossible. I'm so thankful & grateful that I know who the Band are.
writer125 im just glad there is other people who appreciate this great music
***** For this song. I still like to think that its American music. Or North American music.
Most emotion I've ever heard in rock and roll music EVER!
This was my first favourite song from The Band. It captured me from St. Louis Mo where I first heard it to Prince George, BC Canada, today, more than 30 years later. It has been a long road with this song still sweet on my brain. Canadian cold front movin in. And I am home now.
Some of the finest music ever created.
by far
period
amen
never will be repeated
That is the truth!
Does anyone else get teary eyed listening to this song?
Rod, you're not alone, I am sure.
Rob Stewart Yes....but I get really teary eyed when I hear 'it makes no difference'. The Band sure did make some real classic songs.
+Rob Stewart Yes. And I just heard a good cover by Lisa Haley - same teary eyes. Bitter history - bittersweet tune.
+Rob Stewart Are you kiddin? This song has always got me all tore up...
my family came out of Canada Quebec all the way
My wife and I spent a quiet Sunday morning at the Grand Pre park. The most haunting and beautiful place I have ever been. The church is amazing. The art work is stunning and heart breaking.
I have loved The Band since 1979 but I don't remember ever listening to this song. Damn, what a dusty jewel.
While I would never claim this was the greatest song ever recorded, I can't think of a better one.
It's a good one. No doubt.
David Bergin I agree, however, you will surely find other pieces of art that will send you thus. Just do not allow your input to stagnate. Read, listen, take in EVERYTHING. It's a goal, anyway...
David Bergin If it isn't it's fuken close.
All about opinions brother. And i value yours
@@CryptoGrizzly710 Really? High praise indeed.
Living only about 45 minutes away from where my first 17th Century ancestor lived in South East New Brunswick. Once an Acadian, always an Acadian. Thanks for the video.
With this masterpiece, The Band takes its place as a great historic troubadore."Acadian Driftwood" tells the story of the diaspora of the Acadians-called "Cajuns" in Louisiana.Rapid fire talk, unforgettable food, lightning quick minds....all of this was forged by the crucible of history as told so lyrically by The Band.Magnificent song.
Just a beautiful rendition of a great tune by a historical band. There will only be one The Band.We were blessed to witness this group and we will have their music always!!!
Great Song! !
Great song. Hits on so many levels. I am descended from those people on mother's and father's side. I've walked the land of my ancestors at Pre Ronde and near Bloody Creek. Inspiring, the strength and fortitude within people. The history is one of the original "final solutions" with a little more humanity than what came in the 20th century. My ancestors escaped to the woods and lived as fugitives until resettling near present day Fredericton, N.B., only to be displaced again after the American Revolution by expulsion and resettlement of Loyalists on their land. They went upriver to the Madawaska. So proud of them and so gratified for their fortitude.
Wouldn't that make a great story on Finding Your Roots!!!@
Always been my favorite band.l graduated high school in 81 none of my friends ever understood the music I listened to. This is my favorite Band song. It makes me cry when I hear it knowing I will never see them again. I've been in hospital for the last 4 months and I will get to see at least some of them soon.
A beautiful song I remember being taught in primary school in the 70s with hippies for teachers. So melancholy, the heartbreak of the death and birth of nations......owed at least remembrance...
Robbie's native American heritage moved him to create songs like this.
I'd never realized just how much The Band's music effected me until I heard about Levon Helm's passing. I didn't expect to cry and found myself choking back tears all day. These guys were the genuine article. There's not many other bands in their league. Thanks for all the heartfelt music, guys. Much love.
Acadia was a North American colony started by France in 1604. "Acadian Driftwood" is about the Expulsion of the Acadians, which involved Britain forcing the deportation of more than 11,000 Acadians during the French and Indian War. Known as the "Acadian Migration," the story is one that intrigued group leader Robbie Robertson, who wrote the song.
"Acadian Driftwood"
(from "The Last Waltz" soundtrack)
The war was over and the spirit was broken
The hills were smokin' as the men withdrew
We stood on the cliffs
Oh, and watched the ships
Slowly sinking to their rendezvous
They signed a treaty and our homes were taken
Loved ones forsaken
They didn't give a damn
Try'n' to raise a family
End up the enemy
Over what went down on the plains of Abraham
Acadian driftwood
Gypsy tail wind
Thanks for teaching
Its is not known as the Acadian Migration as that implies they had a choice in the matter. It is referred to as the 'Deportation of the Acadians', 'Expulsion of the Acadians', and the larger diaspora as the 'Grand Dérangement'.
TY for your succint summation. The story has such resonance for history buffs.
@@markkrathbun3415 the tribe are called the Mi’kmaq and they gave us our name, it means “The place where the people are”
I don't know, I just cannot get enough of this? A special moment, to know this was one of my 34 year old son's favorite. Band is ageless.
if this doesn't bring a tear to your eye nothing will
amen
crying now
For years never knew this song, then when I did find it didn't take it with me Offshore while I worked.. I played it quite often for the Cajuns I worked with and there's always a tear even from the ol "Tool Pusher" and he's usually a stonewall...
Thank you Guy for the amazing video and history. This is my favourite The Band song.
Was there ever a bunch of musicians as beautiful as the Band in their prime? Saw them three times in the sixties - knockout! Blame Robbie for the break up - whatever - nothing lasts forever. At least we have these sweet memories to remind us of a timeless music that stands above & beyond anything before or since...
steve fanger uhhhh skynyrd, ronnie wrote about their life in Jacksonville and I have literally seen the house they grew up in down the road from the country store where Curtis Loew played his dobroh
steve fanger no
Don't blame Robbie. He was so creative he needed to move on, but he was the one who planned the last waltz with scorcese and took them out in unprecedented style.
Plus we do have to move on. We have to leave high school. The Beatles broke up. Dont blame Yoko, they all matured. Otherwise, you get the Stones (I love them but they need to hang it up) The Who (2 original guys calling it the Who) or Marshall Tucker Band who were also fantastic but now only the lead singer is running around with the band name. Aerosmith should have hung it up a long time ago. The list goes on. Let me quote another of my Canadian neighbors and say its better to burn out than fade away. Go out on a high note. The Band most certainly did.
nobody no group ever came close tot these guys and there never will
BIG snow last few days here on the east coast and I kept singing pieces of the song and thought it was by the Band but couldn't put the pieces together. So glad to find this especially since I just last weekend was in Canada. What a GREAT song
This is about the exile of my Acadian ancestry I'm in Louisiana now called a Cajun.
You're called "Cajun" because the Brits couldn't pronounce "Acadien". When the deportees had to identify themselves they did so in French: " Je suis acadien". They thought they were saying " I'm a Cajun". There you go.
Larry St.Amant same here brother. Born in Bogalusa.
Calcasieu Parish checking in
Phyllis LeBert my dad lived in Lake Charles. Cool spot. Jealous you have all that crawfish and Steamboat Bills right there!!
Half Acadian here, didn't know about the people until I got a DNA test. Ancestry can't even say "Acadian" they say "European" but the groups are there. I want to visit Louisiana.
I love how they introduce instruments gradually as the song progresses so as to represent the the change in culture
Am not Acadian but am a proud french Canadian
There's even a tiny synth in there. Garth Hudson is so unsung these days as a keyboardist.
Thanks everybody for all the great comments. Keep sharing and watching!
Thanks for making and sharing this. Well crafted for an amazing song!
+Guy Belliveau Great series of images and maps! Makes the song more real! Thanks.
Let all our friends within the influence of the aquifer hear, understand and rejoice----- here in Massachusetts, we are following and will share info on the situation. We love and send energy to protect you all and hold you in our dream ---- that no harm will befall you or your loved ones, and that health, healing and success will become your way of life regardless of the obscurations, obstacles and toxins you may encounter . . . ....
very well done. Thank you
Magnificent ballad of history........this song should be the national anthem of the Acadian people.
This will always be great to listen to over and over again. I still miss everyone.
richard & levon & the great great great rick danko..miss them all like u
The Band lives forever and forever.
Has anyone said this yet? "Robbie Robertson wrote some of the most reflective, introspective, and touching lyrics in the history of modern music." There, I said it. Much respect, Mr. Robertson. You have a way with words that outs a cry in my eye and a lump in my throat.
I love how you categorized the song as Education. The music and your wonderful video are indeed educating and enlightening. Thanks!
Sheer beauty...one of The Band's best....don't you just love songs with historical messages!...real nice video!
The 15th of August all over New Brunswick Canada (but especially the Acadian Peninsula) is Acadia Day/La Fete Des Acadiens. So if you would like to take part in a week long giant party/celebrations, with 10s of thousands of Acadians, come on over. Tons of Cajuns come over cause were all the same. If you don't speak French, no problem, we're the only province in Canada that is officially Bilingual. The Acadians around here (Acadia) are super hospitable, very humble and compassionate people. They love tourist, not for the revenue it brings at all, we just like meeting new people and showing off our gem of an area we are fortunate and grateful for. If you need something, someone will ussually help you out free of charge and then give you something. I love this place so I'm a bit biased, but just ask anyone that's been here, and they'll all say the same. Remember THE 15th OF AUGUST IS ACADIA DAY/LA FETE DES ACADIENS!
Dominique Hebert Hi Dominique. Thanks for the great comments. I will be in the SouthWest NS area on the 15th. Je vais faire un tintamarre.
@@GuyBelliveau Right on!! I just seen your comment. I hope you had a great time. We had our "tintamare" in Caraquet NB (Acadian Peninsula) As always, an awesome time was had by all. We had a corn boil going on, steamed muscles, pork on the spit slowly turned to perfection, BBQ, a huge buffet table, all outside. No shortage of wine, beer ect. We topped the night off with a fireworks show, next door neighbor has his own fireworks shop all custom packed, it was beautiful. Guy, If you want to come over next year, give me a shout and you and your's are welcome. This video showed a piece of art I was completely unaware of before, and I appreciate that, so you and yours can be one our guests next 15th if you'd like.
August 15 is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, patron Saint of Acadians also.
Greetings, Dominique, from your very distant relatives in La Louisiane du Sud, Bes, Adrian Hebert Callais
just like in south louisiana not the protestants down here few and far between all catholics cajuns creoles real people
I've loved this song since it was first released. It touchs me and my ancestry even though I am not Acadian. L'Acadie has a direct connection to small Scottish diaspora caused by the British in the 1700s. The French supported the Scots who wanted independence during the 1600-1700s. When things in Scotland got bad under the British, the French offered my ancestors and others safe passage to l'Acadie and other French colonies to escape. My ancestors settled in northern New Brunswick among the Acadians as a result. Aspects of French - Scottish alliance of the 1700s appear in the series 'Outlander'.
Thanks so much for the kind comments. I will.look up the Outlander series soon.
And here's yet another one. After the American Revolution, Loyalists living in New York and the New England states, many of them German, were forcibly deported by the new state governments to New Brunswick. My Debeck and Althause ancestors were among them. One of my great-grandmothers Debeck, widowed with two babies during the war, petitioned the Governor of New Brunswick for a small parcel of land. As her husband had served the Crown to his death, her petition was granted, and she and her small children did not starve.
The French only supported the very few Scots who wanted independence because it was a means to undermine the British Government. They didn't give a damn about the minority of Scots that wanted independence. They were just using them as pawns to further their own colonial ambitions. When you say "British" you mean Scots too. Look at the flag. There were more Scots in the British Army fighting against the Jacobite rebels at Culloden than any other nation of the United Kingdom.
My Scottish great-great grandfather came down to Illinois from Canada after he left Scotland. He wound up in Montana eventually.
@@malbuff The Loyalist were not really deported. As people who had remained loyal to the British crown staying in the new USA was not the best of options and there were many who suffered persecution. The Loyalist were more refugee than anything else.
This is a beautiful video, as good as any I've seen in any media, anywhere. Fine work, Mr Belliveau.
malbuff Thanks. Much appreciated. I have to say that the music makes the video . I was just trying to let people know what the song was about. The song means a lot to me and my ancestry.
Beautiful video for one of the most poignant and storied songs ever to come down the pike. A true arrow straight to the heart!!!
This history needs to be told and The Band found a way of telling it with grand eloquence in song .
You have provided a beautiful and historic context, Guy. Thank you so much for doing this - much appreciated!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so much. Very nicely done. A beautiful song about a little remembered migration by a wonderful band.
Beautiful drawings and paintings! And punchy maps...well done, well though-out. Perfect link with one of my favorites songs by The Band. Thank you, Guy!
This tune always makes me tear up knowing my ancestors are were from that area in eastern Canada and probably suffered thru these events , I’ve been to New Orleans a few times and enjoyed the Acadian culture there , The food, especially the great Music , I’m older now and want to plan a trip to the eastern Canadian maritimes to see the area of my ancestors
Love this song! So glad I heard it on a local radio station last week... now I can't stop playing it :)
Thank you, Mr. Belliveau, for formulating this educational video for us TH-camrs ! Great Job !! And I too have learned something today about the Cajun Folk though having listened to this Great Ballad for Years.
I cry every time I hear this. A tragic tale played by masters.
The same thing happens to me. Thanks for sharing your experience.
Born on the bank of Bayou Lafourche at the Lady of the Sea General Hospital in 1966. Love this song...❤
We are from Galliano . Military family. Gone 40 years now. Since direct hit from Hurricane Ida area still looks bad but again the strength of our people...never ending generation after generation. Be well.
I agree with you Robert. This is one of the best songs that The Band did. It makes me sad too. Robbie Robertson knew and still knows how to write great songs. After the first time I heard this song I read up on this incident. And I'm a huge history buff. But until this song I really didn't know the story of the Cajun people.
I grew up in Fort Kent Maine which is an Acadian community. "Set my compass North I've got winter in my blood" has always really resonated since I moved away after high school.
Should also compliment the video here-well researched, and wonderfully made. Suits the song, --which is no small feat !
Thanks for posting this. 'Tis one of my faves from The Band. It was written by Robbie Robertson, who took inspiration from Henry Wadsworth Longfellows' poem 'Evangeline'. The song first appears on The Band's 1975 album, Northern Lights - Southern Cross. The lead vocal is traded between Richard Manuel, Levon Helm, and Rick Danko, and the harmonies are all three of them.
One of my favorite songs of All Time--such soul about a true story of a persecuted people. I don't know for certain, but I'll bet my son knows the words by heart, as I used to sing this to the record as I walked him to calm him. Levon Helm is genius,
Levon? Robbie Robertson wrote this song.
The Band... Ever since I heard them play as young man back when, there was something that always kept drawing me back to their music.. The melancholy sense of timelessness still draws me to them 50 years later. Their music has coupled the experiences and lives of generations past with we who live in the present. I can only describe this sense as the feeling that one may get when you would wander an old isolated country cemetery in late summer dotted with the graves of Civil War veterans . It is a spiritual experience.
"Set my compass north, I got winter in my blood"
A gorgeous line for sure
Absolutely love this, thanks so much! From Scotland
Love the Band, but Levon and Rick were my favorites. There was a quality about those two that moved my soul... Beautiful, distinctive voices. I feel blessed to have lived in my generation. What incredible music!
+Bob Affolter
Rick Danko is the *MAN*
Agreed, but Richard Manuel’s singing - perhaps especially his performance on Dylan’s 1966 Bootleg (in England) “One Too Many Mornings” - are up there, too.
One of my favorite Band songs. Such a beautiful melody.
The Band’s distillation of the Acadian’s exile from what’s now Nova Scotia and New Brunswick is possibly their finest song. As sad as their story is, the song itself is also beguiling and sublime and quickly draws you in and mesmerizes you with its melody and vocals as well as the Cajun instrumentation.
Although the song draws attention to the plight of the Acadians, the timeline in the song is all wrong as are other pieces of information carried in the lyrics.
this slideshow is truly a work of art. thank you guybelliveau.
Im from Georgia then Texas and the line "Canadian cold front" makes me shiver. What an incredible song.
Bob, you are so right. Whatever was wrong with those mixed-up years, the music was wonderful, and The Band led them all.
And, yes, the Band was mixed up, too; hence the end of the group & early death of some members. They just happened to work their asses off to become as good a group of musicians as ever played rock & roll. I'll be happy to argue that Levon Helm is THE iconic rock & roll artist.
Thanks for the education! I've loved this tune for years, but did not know the background. I figured it was probably about the American Civil War.
Being from the southern shores of Lake Erie, the love of the northern regions is what's always moved me: "...Ya can call it an omen, point ya where yer goin'. Set my compass north I got winter in my blood.." I got as far north as Quebec and New Brunswick on a bicycle trip YEARS ago, so "acadian driftwood" strikes a direct chord there too.
Thanks for sharing! An amazing tune by some amazing and sorely missed talent!
My ancestors were part of the Flight of the Earls from Ireland in the early 17th century and the Acadian story has a familiar feel. Distinct and defiant little cultures and clans forced out by world events but enduring in pockets across the world to this day. Sustaining the language and retelling the stories is all that keeps it alive. Music has been central to this for thousands of years. Listen to Bluegrass and Celtic folk songs - they sound amazingly similar and serve the same purpose. Author David Hackett Fischer calls these enduring "folkways".
This is why the Band is the best. And I'm living in New Orleans right now. Cajun way of life down here is the best. Love this song.
Acadian DriftwoodBy The BandThe war was over and the spirit was broken
The hills were smokin' as the men withdrew
We stood on the cliffs
Oh, and watched the ships
Slowly sinking to their rendezvous
They signed a treaty and our homes were taken
Loved ones forsaken
They didn't give a damn
Try to raise a family
End up the enemy
Over what went down on the plains of Abraham[Chorus]
Acadian driftwood
Gypsy tail wind
They call my home the land of snow
Canadian cold front movin' in
Oh, what a way to ride
Oh, what a way to goThen some returned to the motherland
The high command had them cast away
Some stayed on to finish what they started
They never parted
They're just built that way
We had kin livin' south of the border
They're a little older and they've been around
They wrote a letter, life here is a whole lot better
So pull up your stakes, children and come on down[Chorus]Fifteen under zero when the day became a threat
My clothes were wet and I was drenched to the bone
Been out ice fishing, too much repetition
Make a man wanna leave the only home he's known
Sailing out of the gulf headin' for Saint Pierre
Nothin' to declareAll we had was gone
Broke down along the coast
But what hurt the most
When the people there said
"You better keep movin' on"Everlasting summer filled with ill-content
This government had us walkin' in chains
This isn't my turf
This ain't my season
Can't think of one good reason to remain
I've worked in the sugar fields up from New Orleans
It was evergreen up until the floods
You could call it an omen
Points you where you're goin'
Set my compass north
I got winter in my blood[Chorus]Sais tu, Acadia, j'ai le mal do pays
Ta neige, Acadia, fait des larmes au soleil
J'arrive, Acadia, j'ai le mal do pays
Ta neige, Acadia, fait des larmes au soleil
Great!
Wes Schofield
I love people like you !
Could I get the English meaning for the words after my blood in the last paragraph please ?
Form a historical point of view the lyrics of the song are inaccurate.
I'm a fan of metal music, and I just heard about these guys. I really liked them, so I did some research on The Band. I found out that Levon Helm died a few weeks ago, and I'm so sad...
RIP Levon, May Your Music and Spirit Never Die, for we will always love you.
Quite possible the greatest song ever written and performed. Maybe the smartest one ever too.
It's brainy, no doubt. But if you want more of such intelligence I suggest Al Stewart. Roads To Moscow, Nostradomus, On The Border, and many others he penned and sings.
@@erswnn yes Al Stewart too! Throw Mark Knopfler’s solo stuff into that category as well
Listening to this is a bittersweet experience. The song is beautiful, and the slide show is interesting and tasteful. But to know that we will never again hear those three voices makes me sad. Anyway, this is a great video. Merci beaucoup, M. Beliveau!