The Band's vocalist Levon Helm is in the 'final stages' of cancer, according to his family.

The Band are an iconic name in American music, yet they never quite achieved the success they deserved. Wonderful musicians, the group's evocative vision of Americana was channelled by the voice of Levon Helm.

Sadly diagnosed with throat cancer in the late 90s, Levon Helm battled back to release a new album in 2007. Since then, though, the vocalist's health has taken a turn for the worse leading to a fresh battle with cancer.

A message from Levon Helm's family on the singer's web page has alerted fans to the seriousness of his condition.

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Dear Friends,
Levon is in the final stages of his battle with cancer. Please send your prayers and love to him as he makes his way through this part of his journey.

Thank you fans and music lovers who have made his life so filled with joy and celebration... he has loved nothing more than to play, to fill the room up with music, lay down the back beat, and make the people dance! He did it every time he took the stage...

We appreciate all the love and support and concern.
From his daughter Amy, and wife Sandy

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Our thoughts go out to Levon Helm and his family.

Photo Credit: Ahron R. Foster