What happened between Todd Rundgren and Levon Helm during The Band's 'Stage Fright' sessions?

Rundgren confirms there was an "episode" where Levon Helm chased him around the studio, as Rundgren was a "smart-ass kid" at the time.

How did Garth Hudson's health affect the 'Stage Fright' recording sessions?

Rundgren reveals that he didn't realize Garth Hudson had narcolepsy, and would call him an "old man" thinking he was too tired to stay awake.

Why did Todd Rundgren not initially enjoy The Band's music?

Rundgren admits he "wasn't into that kind of music" and was not aware that The Band were "one of the biggest acts in the world" at the time.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Legendary Producer Todd Rundgren Recalls Chaotic 'Stage Fright' Sessions with The Band

Legendary Producer Todd Rundgren Recalls Chaotic 'Stage Fright' Sessions with The Band

16 Oct, 2025

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Summary

Todd Rundgren was the engineer for The Band's 1970 album 'Stage Fright'
Levon Helm chased Rundgren around the studio, while Garth Hudson struggled with narcolepsy
Rundgren didn't enjoy The Band's music at the time, but later became friends with most members

Legendary Producer Todd Rundgren Recalls Chaotic 'Stage Fright' Sessions with The Band

In a recent interview, acclaimed producer Todd Rundgren looks back on his time working with The Band during the recording of their 1970 album 'Stage Fright'. Rundgren, who was just starting his solo career, served as the engineer for the Canadian-American group's third studio album, which included standout tracks like "The Shape I'm In" and the title song.

However, Rundgren's experience in the studio was far from smooth sailing. He recalls Levon Helm, The Band's drummer, chasing him around the studio at times. Rundgren admits he was a "smart-ass kid" back then, even calling keyboardist Garth Hudson an "old man" and thinking he was too tired to stay awake, unaware Hudson actually suffered from narcolepsy.