Barbara O’Brien with Levon Helm and Larry Campbell

Levon Helm’s longtime manager, studio chief and friend Barbara O’Brien has posted an official statement. The message, which appears on Levon Helm’s official Facebook page, says:

There is a gaping hole in my life and in my heart. Your words of kindness and compassion have been a source of of great comfort to me and to the rest of the team. As Levon always said, no man is an island. The successes we have achieved over the past 9 years weren’t the result of any one person’s efforts. The successes came from a combination of the foundation that was built by people before me and by the people who arrived on the scene with me. Added to the formula was a fan base unlike any other. You all have stood by us through thick and thin – through voice and no voice, through illness and through health. As Levon always said, we’re all partners. Let’s not allow that partnership to falter. Keep following my FB posts because I have a plan – and I’d like you all to be part of it. Again, thank you so much for your strength through this very, very painful time for us. We need you.

Her note indicates that she will continue to host music at Helm’s Woodstock, NY studio as a tribute to the legendary Band drummer. Relix and Jambands.com will post additional information when it becomes available.